Art Education students are art majors who have a desire to teach others about art. They demonstrate a commitment to understanding the nature of art and the practices involved in its production. They are adaptive, resourceful and demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of art, the nature of the learner and the materials and methods from which they work.
The Bachelor of Science in Art Education offers undergraduate students a solid foundation for teaching art by helping them become skilled in all areas of studio practice, knowledgeable about art history, aesthetics and criticism, and able to develop an understanding of the pedagogical practices of art education.
The studio program prepares students with a working knowledge of major two- and three-dimensional studio areas. The art history program gives students the opportunity to develop an understanding of how art is influenced by world cultures and how we are influenced by art. The art education curriculum provides students with a well-rounded foundation in the methodology of teaching art in grades pre-K through 12.
Career Opportunities
The art education degree opens the door for opportunities in a wide range of teaching areas that are not available to the Bachelor of Art major. The primary career for a student of art education is teaching at the elementary, middle and secondary levels in public or private schools.
Employment for art educators is available widely throughout Chatham County, as it is in rapidly growing school systems in adjacent Bryan, Liberty and Effingham counties and nearby South Carolina. Additionally, there are many private schools in the area that employ both full- and part-time art teachers. Besides these primary career positions, jobs are available with institutions such as day care centers, art camps, art centers, museums and church-related programs. Armstrong graduates holding this degree have enjoyed excellent success finding jobs around the area in art education. Beginning salaries usually start around $33, 000 and extend beyond $45, 000 for candidates with experience and further degrees. Median salaries are in the $50, 000-$60, 000 range.
Program Features
The program offers small classes and dedicated art instructors who believe in the importance of art to people of all cultures. Although not required, it is recommended that serious art education students augment their coursework through volunteer work in public and private schools and through membership in the Armstrong State University Student Chapter of the National Art Education Association. Gaining valuable experience early eases the transition into the teaching profession. Also, being a member of the organization provides opportunity for students to interact and form friendships with peers and to meet art education leaders both on the state and national levels.
Along with working with local educators, students have the opportunity to be involved with art museums and numerous galleries located in Savannah. Major cities with art resources are within a half-day driving distance from the college.
