NIU College of Visual and Performing Arts
Online M.S. in Visual Arts Education
Bring the benefits of art to students and communities.
Our flexible program allows you to explore trends and best practices in art education with expert faculty and fellow professionals. The leadership skills and knowledge you gain will prepare you to develop innovative lesson plans and advocate for the arts in your workplace and community. Optional in-person courses provide opportunities for hands-on experience.
Careers After NIU's Online M.S. in Visual Arts Education
Designed for K-12 teachers, museum educators and community art leaders, our convenient online courses will prepare you to enhance and promote your programs with the latest research and technologies.
You’ll benefit from being part of our supportive alumni community, which includes several educators recognized as Teacher of the Year by the Illinois Art Education Association.
Admission Requirements for NIU's Online M.S. in Visual Arts Education
You can apply if you have bachelor’s degree in art education, museum studies, arts management or a related field, or if you’re a certified teacher with an art/design-related endorsement.
You’ll apply through the Graduate School. Your application materials will include:
- Three professional letters of recommendation
- Official college transcripts
- Statement of professional goals
- Writing sample
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
Frequently Asked Questions
The online M.S. in Visual Art Education track is non-licensure. It is tailored for educators who already hold a teaching license or who teach in non-licensure settings such as museum education or community organizations.
NIU’s School of Art and Design offers a hybrid (in-person and online) licensure track that includes a State of Illinois Standard Special (PK-12) educator licensure option. You can learn more about the curriculum and clinicals on the School of Art and Design's website.
Many students in the online M.S. in Visual Art Education track are practicing educators or full-time professionals, though graduate-level coursework represents a dedicated weekly time commitment, and every educator’s capacity looks different.
The program can be completed in approximately three years as a part-time student, typically by taking about two courses per semester. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to develop an individualized plan of study based on their goals, course availability, and desired pace of completion.
Request More Information
We’ll send you details about our online M.S. in art and design education.
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Connect With an Online Student Success Specialist
They'll guide you every step of the way.
Corbin Tyson
he/him/his
ctyson@niu.edu
815-753-6279
Meet with Corbin
