University of Nebraska, Omaha

What you'll study

Coursework emphasizes studio courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, digital media and related practices together with studies in art history and visual culture. Education components typically include foundations of teaching, adolescent development, methods for teaching art, assessment strategies, and supervised student teaching or field placements in K–12 settings. Studio electives allow deeper focus in chosen media and portfolio development.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the university and to the art program; applicants should meet general undergraduate admission standards and any portfolio or departmental requirements set by the art faculty. Candidates for the K–12 endorsement must also complete teacher education program criteria, which usually include background checks, demonstration of readiness for classroom work, and passing or meeting required state exams or performance benchmarks for admission to clinical experiences.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to teach visual art in elementary, middle and high schools where they hold the appropriate K–12 endorsement. Other common paths include working as practicing artists, arts administrators, gallery or museum staff, community arts educators, and freelance creative professionals. The combination of studio expertise and teaching preparation also supports graduate study in art or art education.

Scholarships & funding angle

Students in studio art programs should explore departmental scholarships, merit- and portfolio-based awards, work-study positions in campus galleries or labs, and grants for creative projects. Prospective teachers can look for scholarships tied to education majors, student-teaching stipends, and state or district incentives for new teachers. Planning a financial package early—combining institutional aid, external arts scholarships, and federal student aid—helps sustain studio practice alongside certification requirements.