The students committed to NIU art education are serious scholars and creative risk takers. The art education faculty are devoted teachers, artists, and researchers with international reputations and a variety of disciplinary interests. Through a Visual Culture approach, the NIU art education program encourages students to build on their own strengths and develop skills to advocate for art in schools, work with diverse students, attitudes, and cultures. Students who graduate from NIU with Art Education degrees find rewarding jobs in multiple fields, including teaching in K-12 and community settings, museum and gallery management, and higher education.
NIU Art Education offers one undergraduate K-12 certification program, two masters programs (K-12 certification and for people who are currently art teachers), and a Ph.D. in Art Education.