MA in Art Education
Program overview
The MA in Art Education gives students a critical understanding of the theories and practices used in the teaching of visual arts. The art educator is both artist and teacher. Students are encouraged to draw on personal experience to develop their own philosophy of teaching and to connect their studio practices with pedagogical theory. They will develop a program of study best suited to their individual academic and professional goals. Our faculty members are leaders in their fields who contribute to an environment that encourages innovative ideas and approaches. The program will provide students with the individual attention they need while introducing them to a vibrant community of artists and academics from around the world. Development goals are supported by teaching assistantships and partnerships with other universities.
Program Details
- Bachelor of Fine Arts or a Bachelor of Arts with specialization in art education or its equivalent.
- Overall grade average of B or better.
- Experience in the teaching of art or art-related subjects.
Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the Graduate Admission page for further information on the Language Proficiency requirements and exemptions.
Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits.
Option A: Thesis
Suitable for students seeking to develop in-depth research expertise and whose goals include doctoral studies and/or research-oriented professional positions.
12 credits – Required Courses
ARTE 670 - Critical Perspectives on Art Education History: History, Theory and Practice (3 credits)
ARTE 672 - Advanced Critical Analysis (3 credits)
ARTE 680 - Foundations for Inquiry (3 credits)
ARTE 682 - Research Practice (3 credits)
3 credits – Art Education Special Topics Courses
ARTE 660 A-Z (3 credits each)
6 credits – Elective courses
Additional ARTE 660 A-Z Special Topics Courses
ARTE 606, 607, 608, 609 - Topics in Studio Inquiry (3 credits each)
24 credits – Thesis
ARTE 698 - Master’s thesis (24 credits)
Option B: Course-based
Suitable for students who seek advanced levels of professional development rather than in-depth training as researchers.
12 credits – Required Courses
ARTE 670 - Critical Perspectives on Art Education History: History, Theory and Practice (3 credits)
ARTE 672 - Advanced Critical Analysis (3 credits)
ARTE 680 - Foundations for Inquiry (3 credits)
ARTE 682 - Research Practice (3 credits)
12 credits – Art Education Special Topics Courses
ARTE 660 A-Z (3 credits each)
6 credits – Art Education Topics in Studio Inquiry Courses
ARTE 606, 607, 608, 609, 610, 611 (3 credits each)
15 credits – Elective courses *
May include up to 12 additional credits in Topics in Studio Inquiry Courses: ARTE 606, 607, 608, 609, 610, 611.
* Elective Courses must be selected in consultation with the program advisor and approved by the graduate program director. Some restrictions apply; for more details consult the department.
Upon admission, students choose between a thesis option – which can centre on art-making, teaching or research - and a course work option. Both options are grounded in experimentation, collaboration and diversity, and provide excellent preparation for careers in the visual arts and art teaching.
Option A
MA in Art Education with Thesis: for students seeking indepth research expertise who wish to pursue Doctoral studies and/or who seek research-oriented professional positions.
Option B
MA in Art Education with Courses: for students seeking professional development rather than research training.
Please apply and submit your documents online. See the how-to-guide and visit the department website for application and portfolio requirements.
| DEGREE |
FALL (September) |
WINTER (January) |
SUMMER (May/June) |
| Art Education | MA | Jan. 15 | n/a | n/a |
Priority will be given to those who apply within the official deadlines listed above. Some programs may continue to accept applications after these deadlines. For more information, please contact the department.
Sample classes
- Critical Perspectives on Art Education History: History, Theory and Practice
- Advanced Critical Analysis
- Foundations for Inquiry
- Research Practice
Consult the graduate calendar for a complete list of current courses.
Students applying to the program need to download, print and submit the following forms with their application.
