Art Education, B.A.

student teaching young child

  • "Be an artist and teach art. Use creativity to support the next generation’s education."

    The Art Education major is a specialized program of study that combines your passion for art with your interest in K-12 education. Through your coursework you will graduate with an education license that pairs with your Art degree so that you can work in a school setting teaching art.

  • You will learn from professional experiences in classrooms throughout Illinois as you work with children of varying ages and skill levels. Personal attention is given to each Millikin student as both artist and teacher-learner allow for one to forge a path that best promotes the ultimate possibilities of personal growth and attainment of knowledge, skill, value, respect, and communication. Classes required include both traditional studio art such as painting, printmaking, and drawing, and digital mediums such as design, photography, and videography. 

    Art courses are small, so students will have significant one-on-one time with faculty for feedback throughout the creative process. Being an education major at Millikin means you are part of a cohort of students who collaborate, grow, and succeed together. You will benefit innovative teaching strategies, co-teaching instruction, field experiences, and research projects.

    • Majors have individual painting/drawing studio spaces, artwork storage space in 2D and 3D areas, and access to these areas 24 hours a day.

    • The School of Education offers three endorsements, which you may add to your choice of teacher licensure program: Bilingual Education (Pre K-Grade 12), English as a Second Language (Pre K-Grade 12), Special Education (valid for the grade range of the Professional Educator License).

    "Teach students to learn about the world and about themselves through the use of visual language."

  • Why Choose Art Education?

    The Art Education major combines rigorous studio practice with professional teacher preparation. Students develop as artists while learning how to inspire creativity, visual literacy, and critical thinking in future generations.

    Through studio coursework, classroom experiences, and field placements, students graduate with an Illinois teaching license and the skills needed to support artistic growth in a variety of educational settings. 

    Why the School of Art & Creative Media?

    Art Education students continue to develop their own artistic practice while gaining practical experience in classrooms throughout Illinois. Small class sizes, one-on-one mentorship, studio experiences, and field placements help students grow as both artists and educators.

    Click here to find the plan of study

  • Art Education graduates pursue careers such as:

    • K-12 Art Teacher
    • Museum Educator
    • Community Arts Educator
    • Arts Program Coordinator
    • Youth Arts Director
    • Educational Outreach Specialist
    • Cultural Programming Coordinator

    Illinois Salary Snapshot

    Illinois educators commonly earn:

    • Early Career: approximately $45,000-$55,000+
    • Experienced Teachers: approximately $60,000-$90,000+
    • Educational Leaders: approximately $70,000-$100,000+

    Compensation varies by district, experience level, education, and credentials.  

  • Students pursuing Art Education may be eligible for talent-based scholarships through the College of Fine Arts.

    Portfolios may include:

    • Drawing
    • Painting
    • Photography
    • Digital Art
    • Design Projects
    • Mixed Media
    • Community Arts Work

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