A student types on her tablet while seated in front of her painting of hands
Accelerated Degree

Accelerated Art Education

Art K-12 Licensure with MA in Education

Part of: Education Department, Art & Design Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: Art

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Part of: Education Department, Art & Design Department, School of Graduate Studies

Offered as: Accelerated Degree, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor to Master of Arts in Education

Undergrad Pathway: Art

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Accelerated path to education.

This accelerated program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Arts in Education within five years. The program is designed to provide a streamlined path to teacher licensure and advanced educational training.

Years 1–3: Undergraduate Studies

Students focus on completing core academic and disciplinary coursework, along with general education requirements and electives. These foundational years also include experiential learning opportunities and skill development within the student’s chosen field of study.

Year 4: Licensure Preparation

In the fourth year, students transition into education-specific coursework and begin a clinical residency. This hands-on experience involves collaborative teaching in real classroom environments, helping students apply educational theory and meet the requirements for initial teacher licensure in Colorado.

Year 5: Graduate Studies

The final year centers on advanced coursework in education, culminating in a Master of Arts in Education. Students may choose from several emphasis areas—such as Teacher Leadership, K–12 Online Teacher Leadership, or Reading Leadership—to deepen their knowledge and enhance career opportunities.

K-12 Art Education Requirements

Accelerated Degree
Licensure

Accelerated Degree programs let students earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time. After an accelerated undergraduate study, students begin graduate courses, saving time and money. This fast-track option builds skills and experience, helping students start their careers sooner.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

A licensure complements a degree and is awarded by entities other than Western. Often awarded by the state for teaching, it is a public and professional assurance that state teaching standards are met and the student is prepared to teach.

After Undergraduate Core Classes

After you have completed the undergraduate portion of your coursework, you apply for the teaching placement and the graduate program. Learn more about application requirements, scholarships, and more.

Licensure and Graduate Requirements

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado Foundation offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships
1

Top Skills

Creative Thinking
Adaptability
Critical Thinking
Classroom Management
Time Management
Leadership

2

Career Pathways

Art Teacher
Museum Educator
Community Arts Director
Arts Integration Specialist
Academic Advisor
Art Curriculum Specialist

Department News

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Education Department

Department Chair

Administrative Assistant

  • Marilyn Krill

  • Executive Assistant for Graduate Education Programs

Contact Information

970.943.2030
mkrill@western.edu

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Crawford Hall 101
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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