Art Education, A.A.
The Art Education A.A. degree at Prairie State College is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in both art and teaching principles. This program combines studio art courses, art history, and education coursework to prepare students for careers in art education or to transfer to a four-year college for further study. Whether you aspire to become a classroom art teacher or wish to develop your artistic skills with the goal of inspiring others, this program offers the knowledge and experience needed to pursue your goals.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Art Education?
A degree in art education prepares graduates to become art teachers in elementary,
middle, or high schools, inspiring students and fostering creativity. It also provides
a foundation for careers in arts administration, community art programs, art therapy,
or further academic study in education or art.
The career outlook for art educators is generally positive, with ongoing demand for
qualified teachers at various education levels. As arts remain an essential part of
a well-rounded education, graduates have opportunities in public and private schools,
community organizations, and arts programs. With experience and additional certification,
art educators can advance to leadership roles or develop their own educational initiatives.
Suggested Curriculum
To teach art in Illinois public schools, teachers must be licensed by the state. Transfering
as a junior into an approved bachelor’s program requires at least 60 credits, but
admission is competitive and not guaranteed. Community college students are encouraged
to earn an Associate in Arts degree first. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is typically needed.
Students should regularly consult their advisors to ensure they take the right courses
for licensure and transfer, as requirements may change.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (9 credits)
- ART 121 History of Western Art I (IAI: F2 901)
- ART 122 History of Western Art II (IAI: F2 902)
Select one English course numbered 200 or above from the list for Area B. ENG 243 recommended to meet the non-Western Cultures requirement at some senior institutions.
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
Select one math course from the list for Area C.
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
Select one life science course and one physical science course from the list for Area D. One course must have a lab component.
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 credits)
- HIST 201 U.S. History: 1492 to 1877 (S2 900) or
- HIST 202 U.S. History: 1877 to Present (S2 901)
- POLSC 140 Introduction to U.S. Government and Politics (S5 900)
- PSYCH 101 Introduction to Psychology (S6 900)
Art Core Courses (12 credits)
- ART 101 Two Dimensional Design (IAI: ART 907)
- ART 102 Three Dimensional Design (IAI: ART 908)
- ART 104 Drawing I (IAI: ART 904)
- ART 106 Drawing II (IAI: ART 905)
Select at least one studio art course from the following:
- ART 162 Life Drawing
- ART 201 Painting I
- ART 202 Painting II
- ART 205 Printmaking
- GC 151 Principles of Graphic Design
- PHOTO 171 Introduction to Photography
Select from the following teacher education electives:
- ED 100 Foundations of American Public Education
- ED 101 Child Growth and Development
- ED 212 Exceptional Child
Additional non-Western course from:
- ART 131 Survey of Non-Western Art (IAI: F2 903N)
- GEOG 101 Cultural Geography (S4 900N)
- HIST 111 World History to 1500 (IAI: S2 912N)
- HIST 112 World History: 1500 to Present (IAI: S2 913 N)
- HIST 115 African Civilizations I (S2 920N)
- HIST 116 African Civilizations II (S2 920N)
- HIST 140 History of Latin America (IAI: S2 920N)
- HUMAN 101 Comparative Religions (H5 904N)
OR - PHILO 205 Eastern Philosophy (H4 903N)
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
Do more with your Degree
Maximize your educational opportunities by exploring our Online programs and personalized
Academic Counseling. Discover how you can expand your credentials and successfully
transition to your next academic goal.
AcademicsOnline Learning
Experience flexible learning with Prairie State College’s online courses. Study from
anywhere at your own pace and achieve your goals with quality education and support.
Start today and advance your future on your schedule.
Student ResourcesAcademic Advising
Need guidance on your academic journey? Reach out to our dedicated academic advisors!
Whether you're choosing the right classes, planning your transfer, or exploring career
options, our advisors are here to support you every step of the way. Don't wait—contact
us today to stay on track and achieve your goals!
