Western's Art Education program offers students the chance to become either elementary classroom teachers with a focus on visual art or specialized art teachers for pre-school through 12th grade. The program makes extensive use of studio art, art history, and art education courses, connecting them with campus resources like the Western Gallery and local art organizations. It encourages integrating art-making and art-looking to explore material and process, cultural literacy, and personal meaning in art. The coursework balances theory and practice to help students develop their own teaching philosophies while providing a historical foundation in human creative expression and meaning-making through art.
Why this course is highly recommended
The program offers a blend of studio and academic experiences, incorporating internship opportunities, art gallery involvement, research assistantships, and study abroad options. Students benefit from faculty support, scholarships, and involvement in diverse art organizations and clubs, providing a well-rounded education that prepares them for careers in teaching, art therapy, and beyond. Alumni have gone on to notable careers in art and education, demonstrating the program’s strength in preparing students for professional success.
Students can choose from two main pathways: Art—Elementary, BAE to become elementary teachers focusing on visual arts, and Art—P-12, BAE aimed at preparing students as visual art specialists for pre-school through 12th grade. Both pathways involve engaging coursework and practical experiences that foster a deep understanding of art education.
Application fees
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1st year tuition fees
22.13L
Living cost
Students can pursue the Art—Elementary, BAE for elementary teaching or the Art—P-12, BAE to become visual art specialists. Both programs prepare students for teaching endorsements, with a focus on integrating art within educational contexts. Specific requirements are not detailed in the provided information.

English language test
Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria,
and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Western Washington University admission page
for complete details.
Graduates of the program can become art educators, elementary school teachers, or art therapists. Alumni have advanced into roles like professional painters, foundation education program heads, photographers, and art history professors. The program fosters engagement with practicing artists, exhibitions, and international study, helping graduates prepare for diverse careers in the arts and education.