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How do I become an art teacher What qualifications are needed? What should I major in?

I have an AA in Liberal Arts. I really want to teach or be a therapist. I can't choose which one I should do. I didn't know where to begin to compare them.

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Kim’s Answer

To become an art teacher, you typically need a bachelor's degree in art education or a related field. Some qualifications that may be required include completing a teacher education program, obtaining a teaching license or certification, and completing student teaching or a teaching internship. It's also important to have a strong background in art, including knowledge of various art techniques and art history. Additionally, gaining experience through internships or volunteering in art education settings can be beneficial. Remember to check the specific requirements of the school or district where you plan to teach, as they may have additional qualifications.

For art therapy qualifications, you need a master's degree in art therapy or a related field. It's great that you're considering this path! To become a registered art therapist, you'll also need to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours and pass a certification exam. It's important to research accredited art therapy programs and ensure they meet the requirements set by the Art Therapy Credentials Board. Additionally, gaining experience through internships or volunteering in art therapy settings can be valuable. Remember to explore the specific requirements and regulations in your area, as they may vary.
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Nicole’s Answer

Carrie, excellent question!

As a nurse, I can tell you this world NEEDS more therapists. Career wise the demand is there to have a dependable occupation for life. Art can also be used as a form of therapy for some people so maybe focus on becoming a licensed therapist but have a sub-focus using artistic modalities. That could be musical, painting, or writing expression.

Per Psychology Today.com
Counseling tends to be shorter term, goal-oriented, and it addresses concrete, specific life challenges. By contrast, therapy tends to be longer term, more exploratory and holistic, and it treats mental illness. Counselors often specialize in a specific area, such as marriage, addiction, grief, or abuse.

I would start your training with a Psych degree. Take prerequisite classes at a community college to decrease cost. Then focus on a school that really stands out and is worth spending extra money on.

On your path to discovering what you truly what to do with your career, you'll need to ask yourself some tough questions and really dig down to what makes you happy and how you would like to help this world.

I hope this was helpful! You'll do great things in whatever you choose!
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Jennifer’s Answer

Hi Carrie,
Your passion for art and interest in becoming a therapist can be ingeniously combined by pursuing a major in art education with a focus on art therapy. This unique blend of disciplines can create a path towards becoming an art teacher who is also capable of leveraging the therapeutic benefits of art. By studying liberal arts, the you can gain a well-rounded education that will enrich their understanding of human behavior and society, providing a solid foundation for a potential career in art therapy. This compound field not only allows the you to teach art but also equips them with the skills to use art as a tool for healing and personal expression in a therapeutic setting. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches your professional options but also allows for a holistic understanding of the human experience and the profound impact of art on emotional well-being.

Best of Luck,
Jennifer
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Priscilla’s Answer

As a retired art teacher, I would recommend getting a BFA along with a teaching certificate, including student teaching. Learn all you can about art history, checking out local art museums and seeing if they offer any teacher workshops, usually about a new exhibit. They also give you nice teaching materials. In my county in Maryland, there was no specific curriculum, so I intergrated my lessons with the social studies . I had to supply all of my own art history materials and design all my lesson plans. Be warned that the criteria and format of lesson plans change every other year! I taught middle school that was fully inclusive, so I made sure that I could adapt my lessons to all abilities. That in itsrlf is a kind of art therapy. You should take a ceramics class, but not with a wheel, just hand built pottery or sculptures, forget about glazes, too much time. Good luck, figure out what grade levels you enjoy teaching. Subbing is a good way to get experience and learn from both weak and strong teachers.
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