We have a proud history of teaching future art teachers, and many of our students have gone on to successfully complete the California Credentialling qualifications after studying with us on the BA in Art Plan I Visual Studies. Hundreds of teachers across Souther California are alumni of our program, contributing to their communities in a myriad of ways.
The Visual Studies concentration of the new BA in Art, the new BFA in Art, and the BA in ART Plan I degrees offers a dynamic integration of theory and practice that prepares students to engage with art in the public sphere as well as prepare to become art teachers in K-12 schools.
This contemporary and multidisciplinary course of study empowers students to investigate interconnections between art, pedagogy, community engagement and social justice. This plan prepares students for careers in art education, arts administration, community arts, and socially-engaged practices. It prepares students for further study in fields including Art Education, Fine Art, Social Practice, Art Therapy, and Arts Leadership.
Courses in the major emphasize active learning, engaged curiosity, collaboration, and creative practice. Students gain valuable experience in the field by participating in internships in the local region, including several internships opportunities with Community-based Art and the Prison Arts Collective.