Brookings Main Campus
Fuel the imagination and inspire creativity.
Art is a critically important part of youth education. It stimulates development, fuels imagination, nurtures self-esteem and builds valuable life skills. In this program, you will build your own artistic talents and prepare to teach studio art and design in schools, community centers, galleries, museums and other art organizations. The art education specialization prepares majors for careers as art educators in public and private elementary or secondary schools (K-12). The curriculum prepares students for state licensure through successful completion of the national PRAXIS competency exam. Students pursue a B.F.A. degree, including instruction in specific technical skills, application of theory and conceptual development and teacher education coursework.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Have strong artistic skills.
- Enjoy working with children.
- Are organized, flexible and creative.
- Are positive and enthusiastic.
- Have excellent leadership and communication skills.
Career Opportunities
- Middle school or junior high art teacher
- Elementary art specialist
- High school art teacher
- Summer camp/retreat art program instructor
- Gallery/museum educator
Recent Employers
- South Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa school districts
- Graduate school
Suggested Certificates
- Art History Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Animation Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Ceramics Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Graphic Design Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Painting Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Printmaking Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Sculpture Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
- Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.