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Art Education Degree – K-12 Licensure

Part of: Education Department, Art Program, School of the Arts

Offered as: Major Emphasis, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Art Degree

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: Art Degree, Ceramics Degree, Elementary Education, Painting Degree, Studio Art Degree

Part of: Education Department, Art Program, School of the Arts

Offered as: Major Emphasis, Education Licensure

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Art Degree

Licensure: K-12 Licensure

Related Areas of Study: Art Degree, Ceramics Degree, Elementary Education, Painting Degree, Studio Art Degree

Pursue an art education degree through a BA in Art that develops your skills as both an artist and an educator, ready to lead in K–12 classrooms.

The art education degree at Western Colorado University prepares future educators to inspire students through creative teaching. With K–12 licensure, this program provides the training and certification needed to teach art in schools across Colorado and beyond. Our art education degree is designed for students passionate about both art and education, aiming to inspire creativity in future generations. This comprehensive program combines rigorous coursework in various art disciplines—including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital art—with pedagogical training tailored for teaching art at all grade levels. 

Students benefit from personalized instruction in small class settings, encouraging the development of both artistic skills and teaching competencies. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to obtain a K-12 Education Licensure from the Colorado Department of Education, enabling them to teach art in diverse educational settings. Students pursuing our art education degree gain both artistic development and professional teaching skills, combining studio art practice with courses in pedagogy and classroom management.

For those seeking an accelerated path, Western offers a 3+2 Secondary and K-12 Licensure Program. This innovative track allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Art and a Master of Arts in Education within five years. Candidates apply by December of their junior year and, upon acceptance, engage in advanced studies that deepen their expertise in art education. This pathway not only streamlines the educational journey but also enhances graduates’ qualifications, positioning them for leadership roles in art education. ​Take the next step toward becoming an art teacher with Western’s art education degree program. Apply today and prepare for a rewarding career in education.

FAQ:

What careers can I pursue with an art education degree?

Western’s art education degree prepares graduates for careers as K–12 art teachers, museum educators, community arts instructors, and arts program coordinators.

Does an art education degree lead to certification or licensure for teaching?

Yes. Western’s art education degree program includes K–12 licensure, which qualifies graduates to teach art in public schools upon successful completion of state certification requirements.

Experiential Education

Art K-12 Licensure Requirements

Licensure

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.

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

Start with the General Application—it will match you with eligible scholarships. You’ll be notified if any department-specific materials are needed.

 

General Western Scholarships

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

1

Top Skills

Classroom Management
Artistic Technique
Lesson Planning
Communication
Assessment & Evaluation
Cultural Competency

2

Career Pathways

K–12 Art Teacher
Art Curriculum Specialist
Museum Educator
Community Arts Coordinator
Instructional Coach
Arts Integration Specialist

Education Department

Contact Information

Contact Location

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

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