Visual Arts and Design Education has an emphasis in design. The major develops a students' broad understanding of the visual arts, and the desire to communicate this understanding to others. The major provides a solid foundation in the liberal arts as well as specialized skills in studio arts, curriculum planning, teaching strategies, and verbal communication. Visual Arts and Design Education students take studio courses in a wide range of fine arts areas in order to gain knowledge and skills used by artists in each of those areas. They refine their skills as artists and learn how to creatively express themselves with a full array of art materials and processes.
Visual Arts and Design Education coursework provides a balance between the theoretical and practical needs of prospective teachers. Throughout the program under the supervision of art education faculty members, students receive practicum experiences by observing in the public schools. Graduates use this knowledge in their future teaching and careers as teachers and artists. The art education degree meets both state and national certification standards and is accredited by four national accrediting agencies.
All liberal arts majors prepare students with the skills identified as contributing to managerial success: communicating and listening well, possessing insights into others, creative/critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to make connections across complex ideas.