Tuition & fees
Costs include tuition, fees, & other costs such as books. New England residents may qualify for a tuition break. See cost details
Financial aid
On average, 92% of enrolled students who file a FAFSA receive an offer. 91% of offers include scholarships, grants, waiver, and/or work-study. Explore aid
Program duration
Typical completion time: 4 years. Flexible options may save time. Explore options
Admissions
SAT & ACT scores optional. Early action & year-round admissions. View application process & deadlines
Program highlights
Expected career outcomes
Discover your artistic potential
Our curriculum provides students with a solid studio background as well as diverse teaching experiences so they are prepared for roles as artists and teachers. You’ll graduate ready to pursue a PreK-12 teaching certification, teaching art in community settings or nonprofits, art therapy, and expressive arts.
Student teaching
You’ll gain hands-on experience through an internship in one of our PreK-12 districts across the state, or in a community art program in one of USM Art Education’s 15 partner organizations which include museums, art centers, organizations, and programs.
Community connections
Students run the ArtLab program, a series of art classes with youth ages 8-16. ArtLab provides Art Education majors with practice in writing curriculum and teaching art classes in a simulated environment.
Program requirements
The art education major offers an in-depth studio experience as well as a professional course of study in art education leading to either teaching certification in Maine or a community art degree with alternative student teaching experiences based within the community.
National accreditation
Our program is nationally accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which is a special recognition for art college programs, and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Enjoy a sense of community
You’ll benefit from individualized mentorship, low student-teacher ratio, and peer learning from dedicated and attentive faculty, who are top-notch teachers and teaching artists. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to focus your studies on your preferred area of expertise.
Creativity in practice
The USM Art Gallery is known for its rich blend of contemporary art exhibitions, lectures, events, and Artist-in-Residence community projects. In addition, it regularly showcases art students’ multidisciplinary projects in a range of media.
Licensure and certification
As a graduate, you’ll be eligible to apply for the PreK-12 teaching licensure within the state of Maine.
Scholarship opportunities
Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.
Do you live in New England?
You may be eligible for a reduced tuition rate, as part of the NEBHE Tuition Break Program.
Our helpful admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services. We also invite you to explore the many ways to visit campus or to engage with us through online experiences.