At a glance:

The BFA in Fine and Performing Arts with an emphasis in Art Education provides professional training to individuals preparing to teach art in the public schools and leads to state licensure in art, K-12.

Why should a student choose the Art Education program at UT Martin?

Students who complete the Art Education program at UT Martin find opportunities in the workplace. Students who complete the program and are certified to teach are typically hired as teachers within one year of graduation.

Are there any special opportunities available?

In our program, you’ll be given ample opportunity for exhibiting works. We believe you can’t succeed unless you participate. These opportunities include the VTA Annual Student Art Exhibition, the Artists of the 21st Century Exhibition, the Soybean Festival Art Exhibition, specialty exhibitions, senior exhibitions, museum trips, and the many activities sponsored through the Visual Arts Society.

What can a student do after graduation – graduate school, possible careers?

We strongly urge all art education students seek state licensure to teach art, K-12. There are however numerous opportunities for individuals with training and education in any visual art field. Students may also choose to continue their education into advanced studies in graduate or conservatory programs in the visual arts.

What kind of student organizations, clubs, or honor societies can a student join?

Opportunities for membership in associated student organizations are an important part of student development. The Visual Arts Society (Art, Art Education, and Graphic Design) and Alpha Psi Omega (National Theatre Honor Society) support the efforts of the department and are important in the professional growth of students.

What kind of facilities and equipment will be available to the student?

There are three main art studios in Gooch Hall for Ceramics and Sculpture, Two-Dimensional Design and Drawing, and Painting and Printmaking. Department facilities in Gooch also include a small Fiber Arts Studio and a large well-equipped lecture hall. The Graphic Design Studio is located in the Fine Arts Building where the department’s art exhibition space is also located.

Does the faculty specialize in certain areas?

Dr. Carol Eckert and Assistant Professor Diane Shaw both teach and supervise teachers in the art education emphasis. Dr. Eckert and Ms. Shaw are noted as individual artists and as educators with experience at many different levels in both the public schools and as university instructors.