About Us
Committed to academic excellence and student success, Kent State University’s Art Education program is accredited and in good standing with the national agency NASAD, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. As a Kent State Art Education major, students immerse themselves in education and in a variety of studio art courses.
This focus on the "art" in art teacher is only the beginning of what sets us apart. Animated and enthusiastic instruction in Art Education with class sizes under 25 students provides you with personal attention and feedback on your growth and learning. Equally important, you will get out in the field early and often in your college experience. We exceed the state-mandated number of field experience hours. From teaching community young people in art enrichment classes on campus, to teaching detained youth at area detention centers and students with special needs, as well as working directly with area art educators in their classrooms, you will be well-prepared to move on to your 12-week student teaching experience. As a Liberal Arts college, Kent State University prides itself on our well-rounded and truly educated graduates. You will take courses in a variety of academic disciplines that will complement your art studies.
Through our vibrant KSU Student Chapter of the National Art Education Association, you will have the opportunity to not only participate in both the national and the state annual conventions, but will also make friendships and establish mentoring relationships that can help in your career search as well as graduate school possibilities. The NAEA Student Chapter at KSU is known for its outreach activities, which include numerous opportunities to volunteer in the surrounding community, teaching art in both traditional and nontraditional contexts.
As one of the largest art education programs in Ohio, we have four full-time faculty members. Therefore, you will learn under the direction and guidance of faculty with backgrounds in a variety of research areas in our field, providing you with the opportunity to develop your own personal teaching philosophy. Current faculty research interests range from Design Education, Diversity, Social Justice Education, Gender Studies, Teaching Art to Students with Autism, and Local Art Education.
Guidance through the entire process with several advisors from Art Education and the School of Art, an advisor at the College of the Arts and an advisor in the College of Education, Health and Human Services assist you in making choices that will help you reach your goals. At the completion of your course of study our Career Exploration and Development office will work with you to secure your first teaching position. The Center has a staff whose specific focus is on the placement of KSU education graduates. This support is available throughout your life as an alumna of KSU.
We are excited about art education and are eager to share our excitement with you. Consider scheduling a tour of the School of Art and meeting with a member of the Art Education faculty.