Major in Art (B.F.A.), Art Education Concentration

The Major in Art (B.F.A.), Art Education Concentration embraces the artist-teacher concept, providing our students with both a broad and focused studio background taught alongside professional education classes. Students engage in philosophical and theoretical studies, contemporary pedagogical practices, and arts-based research to prepare for the complexities of the K-12 art studio. Student teaching, field work, and service learning is expected and prepares students to enter a career as an art educator. Our students are required to meet specific standards through Educator Preparation, ensuring a comprehensive and rigorous education. Our program enjoys good working relationships with school districts in the state of Colorado, providing our students with a network to advance their career in art education. 

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of art content (studio, art history, and visual literacy) enabling them to teach art at the K-12 level. 
2. Demonstrate appropriate studio skills resulting in a coherent body of work and artist statement. 
3. Integrate literacy, numeracy and provide appropriate accommodation and differentiation strategies in the art lessons they develop for their students.  
4. Effectively document, analyze, and reflect on student learning and make appropriate changes for more effective instruction.  
5. Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of the Performance-Based Standards for Colorado Teachers upon completion of the program.  

Effective Fall 2025

The Art Education concentration requires a 2.75 cumulative CSU GPA, and that students pass the PLACE exam. Admission to Educator Preparation is also required. Fingerprint and background check.

A minimum grade of C (2.000) or better is required in all Art and Education coursework.

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Select eight credits from one upper-division concentration area other than Graphic Design.

Distinctive Requirements for Degree Program:​ The Art Education concentration requires a 2.75 cumulative CSU GPA, and that students pass the PLACE exam. Admission to Educator Preparation is also required. Fingerprint and background check.

A minimum grade of C (2.000) or better is required in all Art and Education coursework.