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The Master of Art Education program equips art educators to become thoughtful practitioners in the field through theoretical exploration, research, and cutting-edge technologies. It features two distinct pathways: one designed for certified teachers seeking to expand their Art Education expertise (M.A.E.), and another for individuals with a B.A., B.F.A., or equivalent degree pursuing simultaneous master's degree completion and teaching certification (M.A.E. Licensure). The program focuses on diverse specializations such as service-learning, museum studies, digital tools, curriculum design, artistic discourse, feminist perspectives, evaluation methods, aesthetic theory, program assessment, game-based learning, culturally responsive teaching, and urban education. Students engage in research and practical applications across educational, museum, and community environments.
A statement of purpose, approximately 500-750 words in length, that briefly describes the applicant’s interest in graduate study and research, indicating an avenue of inquiry that the applicant expects to explore. The statement should also include the applicant’s professional goals beyond graduate study and explain why VCU art education is suited to the applicant’s interests. The applicant should indicate which track of the MAE program is desired: the track designed for practicing art teachers or the MAE+ track, which allows students to earn both the MAE degree and teacher license at the same time. Please also indicate the preferred enrollment as either full-time or part-time and describe any previous teaching experiences.  
A current resume or CV. If the applicant has a website, please include a link in the CV/resume.
Portfolio: 10-15 images of personal or student work. Please show both breadth of media competency as well as depth of ability in at least one area. Write a caption for each work and clearly indicate if it is personal work or student work.