Art Education

Art education is in the process of change on a global scale. The growing use and influence of the broad range of visual arts, through for example, computer and other communications media, have made art central to the education of children in any progressive nation. Art education is becoming increasingly technological, multicultural, and interdisciplinary. At the same time, greater attention is being paid to issues of creativity through the lens of developing individual and group identity. Research has demonstrated that making and viewing art, and any visual culture, can influence identity formation and cognitive development. The study of art nurtures the imagination and provides the opportunities for professional growth essential to a good education.

The art education program at Northern Illinois University is research-based and one of the leading programs in the country. The art education faculty is comprised of experts with national and international reputations, who are experienced teachers and well published researchers. The program is also one of the largest in the country and certifies more K-12 art teachers than any other program in the state.

NIU Art Education includes an undergraduate K-12 certification program, an undergraduate museum studies program, two masters programs (K-12 certification and in-service), a master's level museum education certificate program, and a doctoral degree with a Specialization in Art Education through NIU's College of Education.