Art teacher responsibilities: What do art teachers do?

Art teachers do much more than just hand out paintbrushes. They serve as guides who help students navigate the world of visual expression while managing a dynamic, often messy, classroom environment. On any given day, an art teacher might transition from lecturing on the Renaissance to demonstrating the proper way to knead clay or use digital design software.

Core responsibilities often include:

• Developing curriculum: Creating lesson plans that align with state standards while keeping students engaged

• Technical instruction: Teaching fundamental skills in various mediums like drawing, painting, sculpture, and photography

• Classroom management: Maintaining a safe and organized space where students feel comfortable taking creative risks

• Art history and criticism: Helping students understand the cultural context of art and how to critique work thoughtfully

• Exhibition planning: Organizing student art shows and displays to celebrate and showcase student progress

What do you need to be an art teacher?

Success in the art room requires a unique mix of "hard" artistic skills and "soft" interpersonal abilities. While you need to be proficient in art techniques, your ability to connect with students is what truly makes a difference in their learning experience.

How to become an art teacher: Step-by-step guide

Becoming an art teacher requires a few important steps. Here's what you need to know about each phase of the journey:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree

Your journey typically begins with earning a bachelor's degree. You have two main pathways: a degree in art education or a degree in fine arts combined with a teacher preparation program.

• An art education degree combines studio art courses with education theory, teaching methods, and classroom management. This integrated approach prepares you specifically for teaching roles with both artistic techniques and teaching strategies.

• If you earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), you'll need to supplement it with education coursework. Some schools offer fifth-year programs that add teacher certification to your fine arts degree. This pathway works well if you want deep artistic expertise.

During your degree program, you'll take courses in art theory, art history, various artistic mediums, and educational psychology. You'll also complete general education requirements that provide a well-rounded foundation.

Step 2: Complete student teaching requirements

Hands-on classroom experience is essential before you can teach independently. Most programs require between 200 and 800 hours of supervised teaching experience, depending on your state and program.

Student teaching usually happens during your final year of undergraduate study. You'll work under the supervision of an experienced art teacher, gradually taking on more responsibility for planning and delivering lessons.

This experience lets you apply what you've learned in real classroom settings. You'll practice managing different age groups, adapting lessons on the fly, and developing your teaching style. It's also valuable for building professional relationships.

Step 3: Pass required certification exams

Every state requires teachers to pass specific exams before granting certification. While the exact test names and formats vary by state, you'll typically need to pass two types of tests.

• The basic skills assessment evaluates your competency in reading, writing, and mathematics. Some states use the Praxis Core, while others have their own assessments like Missouri's MoGEA or state-specific exams.

• The content knowledge exam focuses specifically on art education. These tests cover art-making techniques, art history, art theory, and teaching methodologies. They assess both your artistic knowledge and teaching ability.

Check your state's education department website for specific testing requirements and registration information. Some tests are only offered at certain times throughout the year, so plan ahead.

Step 4: Apply for state teaching certification

Once you've completed your degree, student teaching, and exams, you're ready to apply for your teaching license. Each state has its own application process and requirements.

Most applications require proof of degree completion, passing exam scores, background check results, and documentation of student teaching hours. You'll also need to submit fingerprints and pay application fees.

Many states require additional workshops on topics like child abuse identification, school violence prevention, and anti-bullying strategies. Complete all your state's requirements before submitting your certification application.

Your initial certificate is usually valid for several years and requires renewal through continuing education.

Step 5: Build your teaching portfolio and apply for positions

With certification in hand, you're ready to launch your job search. A strong teaching portfolio showcases both your artistic abilities and teaching skills.

Include examples of your own artwork, photographs of student projects from your student teaching experience, sample lesson plans, and evidence of student growth. Your portfolio demonstrates your creative abilities and educational approach.

Network with teachers you met during student teaching, attend job fairs, and regularly check school district websites for openings. Don't limit yourself to your ideal position — entry-level opportunities provide valuable experience.

Step 6: Consider starting your own art teaching business

Beyond traditional school positions, you can launch your own art teaching business. This path offers flexibility and creative control over your curriculum, schedule, and teaching environment.

Many art teachers start by offering private lessons from home studios or renting space at community centers. You can teach children's classes, adult workshops, or specialized courses in specific mediums like watercolor or pottery.

Building a business requires marketing skills and entrepreneurial spirit. Start by creating a website, building a social media presence, and networking within your local community. Word-of-mouth referrals often become your best source of students.

Consider offering summer art camps, birthday party classes, or partnering with schools for after-school enrichment programs. While this path doesn't require state certification, having credentials strengthens your credibility and attracts more students.

Alternative pathways to art teacher certification

If you already have a degree in another field or are changing careers, alternative certification programs offer faster pathways to the classroom. These programs allow you to complete coursework online while gaining practical classroom experience. You can often work as a teacher while completing your certification, earning income as you learn.

Alternative certification programs typically take one to two years to complete, making them more efficient than returning to school for a second bachelor's degree. They're also generally more affordable than traditional programs.

However, you'll still need to meet your state's basic requirements, including passing certification exams. Some states have specific alternative certification programs, while others offer provisional licenses for teaching while completing coursework.

Art teacher salary and job outlook

The job outlook for art teachers remains steady, with projected growth of approximately 4% over the next decade. This stable growth reflects that consistent demand for qualified art educators nationwide.

The profession offers excellent job security and benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and significant vacation time. Career advancement opportunities include department chair roles, curriculum coordination, or administrative positions.

How much does an art teacher make?

Art teacher salaries are highly dependent on the state, district, experience, degree, and school type. The average salary ranges from $45,000 to $55,000 per year. Entry-level teachers may earn below this range to start, while experienced educators with 10+ years can make significantly more.

Geographic location significantly impacts earnings. States like California and New York offer higher salaries. Public schools generally pay more than private schools. Additional income comes from coaching, summer school, or earning a master's degree.

FAQs about becoming an art teacher

What degree do you need to be an art teacher?

You need at least a bachelor's degree to teach art in public schools. Most states require either a degree in art education or a fine arts degree combined with a teacher preparation program.

Some states accept related degrees in fields like studio art, art history, or graphic design, provided you complete teacher certification requirements. However, having coursework specifically in art education often makes you a stronger candidate.

For teaching at the college or university level, you'll likely need a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or a master's degree in art education. Advanced degrees can also increase your earning potential at the K-12 level.

How long does it take to become an art teacher?

Becoming an art teacher takes about 4 to 6 years. A traditional bachelor's degree program takes four years of full-time study.

If you pursue alternative certification after earning a degree in another field, the timeline is shorter. These programs take one to two years to complete, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time while working.

Keep in mind that certification timelines vary by state. Some states process applications quickly, while others may take several months. Factor in time for completing required exams, background checks, and any mandatory workshops.