SVSU’s Visual Arts Education program provides a solid foundation in fine arts, design, and art history. You’ll study effective teaching methods and curriculum design while developing your skills in painting, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. As a Visual Arts Education major, you’ll follow a comprehensive curriculum, choose a concentration in your preferred medium, and gain real-world experience through engaging field study courses.
Visual Arts Education (BA)
Visual Arts Education (BA)
About
If you’re passionate about art and aspire to teach, SVSU’s Visual Arts Education program helps you turn creativity into a classroom career. You’ll take hands on courses in photography, sculpture, painting, and more, then choose a focus that fits your style. Faculty from both Art and Education work closely with you, teaching the foundations of fine art and design as well as how to plan lessons and lead a class. Along the way, you’ll explore different media, study art history, and practice real teaching skills through fieldwork. With guest lectures, exhibitions, and plenty of studio time, SVSU gives you the experience and confidence to thrive as a future art teacher.
Cardinal Points
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Acclaimed artists showcase their work via lectures and exhibitions, offering students the chance to ask questions with and learn from those in their perspective fields.
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Students pursuing a degree in Visual Arts Education can apply for art and education scholarships through SVSU.
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Students have the opportunity to exhibit their work through the journal, Still Life, the University Art Department Gallery and special events like International Sculpture Day.
Highlighted Courses
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Key Electives
Click here to see a listing of programs
Programs
Majors
Other
Complementary Minors/Majors
Beyond The Books
Student Organizations
Students are heavily involved in clubs such as the Art and Design Creative League, Cardinal Photography Students Association and the Comic Strippers.
Mural Development Project
Students in SVSU's mural painting class engage with area youth and help them develop murals in the community.
Internships
Visual Arts Education majors complete student teaching internships to gain fieldwork experience.
After Graduation
- Steady employment levels projected for middle and high school teachers through 2033 as the workforce transitions (U.S. Dept. of Labor, BLS Occupational Outlook).
- $62,950–$65,220 median yearly pay for middle and high school teachers (May 2023, U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- $105,180 median yearly pay for art directors (May 2023, U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics).
With a degree in Visual Arts Education from SVSU, graduates are well-prepared to pursue teacher certification and careers in K–12 art education. They are also equipped for opportunities in community arts programs, museums, and graduate study in art education, leadership, or studio practice.
Our Students After Graduation...
Employers
State-wide public school systems
Non-profit sector art organizations
Career Opportunities
High school teacher
Middle school teacher
Elementary school teacher
Curator of education