Go to Menu What you study You need 130 credits for a B.F.A. in art education. While the bulk of courses are in art, art education, and education, students can take courses that explore other topics in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The first year is the same for all visual arts students, and comprises the foundation of their art education. After the first year, students begin to focus their study on art education. A typical sophomore year includes courses such as Development of Visual Symbols, Ancient and Medieval Art, Arts in Societies, Studio Concentration, art history and literature electives, and Child Psychology or Human Development and Learning.
Students choose to pursue a teaching certificate for either the elementary or secondary level.
The appropriate art education courses are selected depending upon the level of certification sought. Art education students complete a series of courses in studio arts such as painting, graphic design, textile design, illustration, or art therapy. Students may also take studio electives in crafts, art history, sculpture, and two-dimensional work. In the senior year, students complete a 15-week teaching practicum. By teaching within school districts at either the elementary or secondary level, students gain practical teaching experience and meet the Massachusetts Department of Education certification requirements.