Bachelor's Degree in Art Education
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A bachelor's degree in Art Education is ideal for individuals passionate about both art and teaching, who want to inspire creativity in students of all ages while building expertise in visual arts, pedagogy, and curriculum design. Graduates can pursue careers as K-12 art teachers, museum educators, arts program coordinators, or community art organizers, fostering the growth of artistic expression in diverse educational settings.
Program Overview
Inspire creativity and foster artistic expression with our Art Education bachelor's degree. This program blends a deep exploration of visual arts with innovative teaching methods to prepare you for a meaningful career as a K-12 art educator. Through hands-on studio work, education theory, and practical classroom experiences, you'll develop the skills to nurture artistic talent and promote the importance of the arts in schools and communities. Graduates are equipped to become licensed art teachers, community arts leaders, or advocates for arts education. The nationally accredited and state certified art education teacher licensure program in the School of Art & Visual Studies provides a unique four-year undergraduate program in which more than 65 percent of our students graduate with a dual degree in studio art and art education. Our program in art education prepares students in the liberal arts tradition with courses that encourage creative thinking, intellectual reasoning, and exploration of humanities, culture and global dynamics. These skills fuel a passion for helping students to achieve global competitiveness in collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking. Join a program where passion for art meets the power of education.
Related Careers
Graduates are licensed to teach K-12 Art Education in the state of Kentucky.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
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What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Arts in Art Education program prepares students to become certified art teachers while fostering their own development as practicing artists. Through a blend of studio art, art history, and education coursework, students learn to design engaging curricula, support diverse learners, and promote creative expression in K–12 classrooms. With hands-on teaching experiences and licensure preparation, graduates are equipped to inspire the next generation through visual arts education. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Creative Arts Living Learning Program
Live with and learn from other creative-minded students at UK! Plus, gain access to dedicated practice spaces and studios right where you live.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
