In classes, students explore theories of human development and the nature of art making, and develop approaches to the diverse needs of learners. Courses include regular visits to a variety of educational and art settings, familiarizing students with a wide range of teaching and artistic contexts, including public schools, after-school programs, alternative programs, art spaces, and community centers, museums, galleries, and artists’ studios.

Students also have the opportunity to take courses that focus on community engagement or on curatorial design, where they develop exhibitions of local artists and create educational materials for the public.

Saturday Studios

Practical experience is at the heart of the MassArt Art Education program. Our renowned Saturday Studios Program allows students to gain supervised and supported hands-on experience as educators. BFA students are also required to do a supervised practicum or internship. Students interested in getting endorsed for an initial license in visual arts teaching, select the school-based practicum. Students interested in community, museum or gallery settings select internships in those settings.

By graduation, Art Education students are culturally responsive educators who have developed critical skills, strategies, and approaches that address the diverse needs of learners. Our students catalyze inclusive, active, and activist learning for all, across educational contexts and environments.