Art Education

Art Education at Adelphi University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare aspiring educators to inspire and cultivate creativity in students of all ages. Combining rigorous coursework with practical experience, the program emphasizes both the development of artistic skills and effective teaching methodologies. Students explore diverse art forms, including painting, sculpture, drawing, and digital media, ensuring a well-rounded artistic foundation. The curriculum integrates theories of art education, child development, and educational psychology, equipping graduates to create engaging and inclusive learning environments. Practical teaching opportunities are provided through internships and student teaching placements in local schools, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings under supervision. The faculty comprises experienced educators and artists dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and pedagogical effectiveness. Graduates of the Art Education program are well-prepared to obtain teaching certification and pursue careers as art teachers in elementary, middle, or high schools. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning with contemporary educational standards. With state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant arts community, students have access to resources that support their creative and pedagogical growth. Ultimately, the Art Education program at Adelphi University aims to empower students to become confident, innovative, and reflective educators capable of nurturing the artistic potential of diverse student populations.

Through flexible evening, blended and online, summer and weekend courses, you’ll explore the craft of art instruction in many settings, including studio art to build artistic portfolios and integrated teaching practice with skilled K–12 teachers and University mentors. You’ll also gain school fieldwork experiences in local elementary, middle and high schools.

Our program is unique in its emphasis on integrating all the arts into education through specialized courses and studio work leading to exhibition opportunities so you can meaningfully connect your creative processes and teaching practices.

Year 1

Fall (12 Credits)

• ETH (0893) 525 - Exploring the Role of Arts in Education Credits: 3.00
• ART 700–724 Studio Art Elective or Exploring the Arts Elective
• ECH (0807) 595 - Child Literacies: Literature, Culture and the Arts Credits: 3.00 or
• EDO (0809) 595 - Youth Literacies: Literature, Culture and the Arts Credits: 3.00

Spring (12 Credits)

• ETH (0893) 509 - Artistic Development and Creative Growth Credits: 3.00
• EDO (0809) 596 - Inquiry and Expression Literacy Across The Curric: Humanities Credits: 3.00
• ART 700–724 Studio Art Elective or Exploring the Arts Elective

Must be taken with either

• EEC (0810) 600 - Introduction to Special Education Credits: 3.00
• EEC (0810) 560 - Managing Inclusive Environments Credits: 3.00

Year 2

Fall (7–10 credits)

• EAR (0803) 510 - Instruction and Assessment in The Visual Arts Credits: 3.00
• HED (0834) 610 - Health Preparation for Teachers Credits: 1.00
• ETH (0893) 788 - Masters Seminar in Arts Education Credits: 3.00

Spring (6 Credits)

• ETH (0893) 790 - Student Teaching in Art Education: Pre-Certification Credits: 6.00

In addition to a completed application for graduate admission and application fee, applicants must submit:

• Personal essay describing your reasons for pursuing graduate study in art education at this time
• Two letters of recommendation (professional and/or academic)
• All official college transcripts (including any study abroad transcripts)
• GRE or MAT (Millar Analogies Test) score
• Artistic portfolio of 10 to 15 representative artworks, including an area of focus (e.g. graphic design or painting) and some breadth (such as drawing, sculpture, ceramics, illustration, etc.) which may be submitted on a CD or emailed to artedma@adelphi.edu

Applicants must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.

The Art Education program at Adelphi University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students can explore various financial aid opportunities, including federal and state grants, scholarships, and loan programs. Federal Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are available for eligible students, providing funds that do not require repayment. Adelphi University also encourages students to apply for institutional scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or a combination of both. These scholarships can significantly reduce the overall cost of education and are awarded during the admissions process or renewal annually, provided that the student maintains the required academic standards.

In addition to grants and scholarships, students can consider federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, which offer relatively low-interest rates and flexible repayment options. Private loans may also be available through external lenders for students who need additional financing. Adelphi University offers financial counseling services to help students understand and manage their funding options effectively. Work-study programs are another avenue that allows students to earn income while gaining practical experience in their field of study. The university's financial aid office provides detailed guidance on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and navigating the scholarship application process.

It is important for students to review the specific eligibility criteria for each financial aid program and submit all required documentation by designated deadlines. The university's commitment is to make art education accessible to all qualified students regardless of financial background, and they continuously seek new funding sources and partnerships to expand available financial assistance. Students are encouraged to contact Adelphi’s financial aid office early in their application process to discuss personalized funding strategies, understand the total cost of attendance, and plan accordingly to minimize debt upon graduation.

The Art Education program at Adelphi University is designed to prepare students for a career as an art teacher in elementary, middle, and high schools. The program emphasizes both practical art skills and pedagogical theories, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to foster creativity and artistic development in diverse student populations. Students in this program have the opportunity to study a wide range of art forms, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media, alongside coursework in art history and teaching methodologies. Adelphi University’s commitment to experiential learning means that students engage in student teaching placements in real classroom environments, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced educators. The program is accredited and aligns with state certification requirements, helping graduates to obtain teaching certification in New York State and beyond. Faculty members are active artists and educators who bring a wealth of professional experience into the classroom, creating a dynamic learning atmosphere. The curriculum is designed to foster leadership, technological competencies, and inclusive teaching strategies, preparing graduates to meet the needs of diverse learners. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including art studios, galleries, and digital labs, providing a rich environment for artistic exploration and professional development. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared for employment as certified art teachers in public or private schools, or for further study in graduate programs in art education or related fields. The program also encourages participation in community outreach projects, exhibitions, and art competitions, supporting students’ professional growth and community engagement. Overall, Adelphi’s Art Education program aims to cultivate skilled, creative, and reflective educators committed to inspiring the next generation of artists and art lovers.