Our Bachelor of Arts in Art Teacher Education program focuses on developing your artistic proficiency and understanding of educational theory to prepare you for a successful career as art educator in K-12 schools. You will develop advanced artistic skills in a variety of mediums and techniques. During the program we teach you instructional strategies, curriculum development, assessment techniques, and classroom management tailored to the unique needs of art learners. Our program helps you develop a personal teaching philosophy.
What is an Art Education degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Art Teacher Education?
Our learning approach provides you with a skillset in several areas of art and develops your technical skills, aesthetic judgment, and critical thinking. This approach instills a mindset necessary for success as an art teacher. Our program provides you the foundation you need to become a skilled, versatile, and sought-after art teacher, ready to make your mark in the classroom.
Hands-on learning
You’ll experience hands-on learning through 100+ hours of field experience and 1 semester of student teaching.
Path to licensure
Upon completing the Art Education program you’ll be recommended for a license to teach in Iowa agencies and schools.
Iowa and beyond
Whether you want to work in Illinois or another state, our faculty will guide you through the application process.
Supportive environment
Our faculty, staff, and students create a learning environment, cultivating creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.
State-of-the-art facilities
Studios, labs, and collaborative spaces offer ample room for skill refinement and experimentation.
Free admission to Figge Art Museum
Our students enjoy free membership to the nearby Figge Art Museum for exhibitions, events, and lectures.
What you’ll learn in your Art Education program
You’ll start by taking foundational art courses. Then, you’ll explore education courses where you’ll build an understanding of learner development, learning differences, and learning environments. When you’re done, you’ll be prepared to become a fully licensed teacher in the State of Iowa.
- Advanced study of the human form through observational drawing
- Understanding of computer applications in art
- Exploration of processes and concepts in printmaking techniques
- Application of two- and three-dimensional arts in elementary art
- Application of two- and three-dimensional arts in secondary art
Explore Art Education courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits, including 39 gen ed credits, 30 credits in art, and 57-59 education credits.
- You will also complete 140 hours of pre-student teaching field experiences at two different age levels and 1 semester of student teaching.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| AD140 | Computers in Art | 3 credits |
| AD 220 | Printmaking | 3 credits |
| AD 300 | Figure Drawing | 3 credits |
| EDART 370 | Elementary Art Methods | 2-3 credits |
| EDART 380 | Secondary Art Methods | 3 credits |
How much does a BA in Art Teacher Education cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognition provide the assurance we meet standards for quality faculty, curriculum, leaner services, and fiscal stability.
St. Ambrose University’s Education programs are approved by the Iowa Department of Education.
How does SAU support Art Education students?
St. Ambrose University’s Art Education faculty don’t just teach. They are practicing artists and designers who have been recognized regionally, nationally, and internationally for their work. This means you’ll make all the right connections in the art world and receive the mentorship you need to follow your desired career path.
Art education faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for a BA in Art Teacher Education?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Art scholarships
The Art and Design Department awards scholarships to students who show exemplary talent in their artwork. Learn more about Art and Design Scholarships.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Debt-free education
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education."
-Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa
What’s on campus for Art Education students?
Join an international organization of student teachers in student teaching programs–Phi Delta Kappa. Members engage in service projects and participate in regional conferences.
Enjoy galleries right here on campus inside St. Ambrose University’s Galvin Fine Arts Center. The Catich Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibits featuring the work of regional and national artists as well as faculty and seniors graduating with honors. The Morrissey Gallery offers a unique exhibition opportunity to local and regional artists.
Join SAU’s Art Club to interact with artists and meet new people through regular events at local museums. During "teaching nights" a member teaches participants an artistic skill so they can build on and expand their talent and abilities.
What are the general admission requirements for a BA in Art Teacher Education?
Here are the admissions requirements for our Art Education program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What are the School of Education admission requirements for a BA in Art Teacher Education?
We have special requirements for admittance to the School of Education.
- You must complete 40 field hours in EDUC 205 or provide verification through EDUC 207
- You must provide two professional rating forms (EDUC 205 or 207 instructor, and cooperating teacher's evaluation) which show you earned an average rating of at least developing (3) in the three separate dispositional categories and recommended by both course instructor and cooperating teacher
- You must receive a grade of "B" or above in EDUC 205 or EDUC 207
- You must complete the application for admission to teacher education program form (including statement of fraud section and necessary signatures)
- You must complete EDUC 282 and EDUC 284 with at least a B average
What can I do with an Art Education degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our art education program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Art teacher (K-12)
- Art curriculum developer
- Art department chair
- Museum educator
- Community arts program coordinator
- Arts integration specialist
Potential employment settings
- K-12 Schools
- Art therapy boards
- Museums
- Art libraries
- Community & recreation centers
- Nonprofit organizations
Traits of an art teacher
- Teaching
- Creativity
- Interpersonal communication
- Problem-solving
- Aesthetic judgment
Industry facts
- Secondary school teachers in Iowa earned a median wage of $60,480 in 2022 (excluding teachers working in special and career/technical education).
- Elementary school teachers in Iowa earned a median wage of $60,380 in 2022 (excluding teachers working in special education).
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
News and events
St. Ambrose University announces Alumnus Daniel Salazar chosen as finalist for prestigious Fulbright program
Alumnus Daniel Salazar '23 has been chosen as a Fulbright finalist for the English teaching assistantship in Spain.
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Catholic higher education - an asset for Iowa and Iowans
Private higher education makes a positive difference all across Iowa, and Catholic institutions offer a supportive environment to learn and grow.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
