Program Description

In the Art and Art Education Program, the study of art encompasses the traditions of fine art and the popular arts of culture. A central tenet of the Program is the role of the arts in nurturing human growth and development throughout the lifespan. Within this context, courses in art education examine the different environments in which the various art forms reach their audiences: Private and public schools, colleges, museums, community arts centers, hospitals and other such settings.

Faculty prepare students to be well informed, critical thinkers so that they may enter leadership positions in their professions. Faculty are not only seasoned practitioners who possess expertise in art, studio, museum, and diversity education, they are also national leaders in arts education research.

Each of the Program’s degree options is built around a core of courses considered to be essential to an exemplary arts education. Beyond the core, students along with their advisors have the flexibility to design individual programs that meet particular needs and goals. In addition to courses in art education, students are expected to select from other offerings of Teachers College and Columbia University in order to fulfill degree requirements, or the Museum Education concentration. (see Special Application Requirements section for more information).

The vast cultural resources of New York City offers students myriad opportunities to enrich their conceptions of art and its diverse practices. In addition, the program offers weekend institutes, colloquia, mini-courses, opportunities for involvement in professional development workshops and summer study. Suitably qualified students may also apply for apprenticeships in the Center for Arts Education Research where they may assist on funded projects.