Why Art Education?
With the BA in Art with K-12 Licensure, you’ll receive the professional training needed to become artists and educators. The study and practice of art provide the opportunity to express your creativity and become a strong communicator who considers new ideas, takes criticism well, completes projects, and works both independently and in groups. These skills prepare to teach in public or private schools, museum education programs or art centers. As an educator, you will pass these skills on to your students.
Requirements
36 hours major coursework
40 hours education coursework
46 core curriculum credits
120 total credits for graduation
Classroom Experience
North Park’s art education program utilizes the resources of all our education degrees to get you into real classrooms early and eases your transition from observer to student teacher.
- Targeted observations as part of the methods course
- Teacher Aiding: observe and assist teacher/students (70+ hours)
- Mini-Teaching: prepare and teach one lesson each day (7 weeks)
- Student Teaching: full-time teaching (12 weeks)
Student Spotlight
“I chose North Park because it was small, close to home, and had easy access to the city—a very nice combination.”
– Katie Brehmer C’17
Art Education Program Details
The BA in Art with K-12 Licensure program is designed for future teachers who want to teach in K-12 levels. Art majors interested in education can complete a special K–12 education sequence that includes foundational education courses along with classroom experiences in elementary, middle, and high schools. Advisors from the art program and the School of Education assist with coursework planning towards a successful completion of the Illinois State Board of Education requirements for licensure. Students also participate in student teaching and a practicum.
The program gives students broad knowledge and specialization in studio art to teach general art classes in K-12 settings. It prepares students to obtain a foundation in the formal and conceptual traditions of studio art, art history, and art criticism, and prepares them to be effective leaders of art-related community projects and educational departments in a variety of settings.
Exhibit Opportunities
Senior art majors with a concentration in art education will participate in the Senior Show during their final semester. They will create an artist’s statement and a cohesive body of work to professionally display in the Carlson Tower Art Gallery.
Faculty
As practicing artists who actively produce and exhibit work, faculty members foster your artistic and personal growth while helping you build community with your classmates. They also draw on connections to bring professional artists to jury student shows, exhibit their work, talk to classes, and meet with students.