MA in Art Education

About the MA in Art Education at NSCAD University
The Master of Arts in Art Education (MAAE) teaches students how to apply their knowledge and talents to become change makers, going beyond the conventional to reach radical possibilities in art education research and practice.

Established in 2019, the Master of Arts in Art Education is a new degree program at NSCAD University. Our future art educators will be immersed in a theory-rich academic experience, rigorous research training and field-based practicum that reflects current trends and roles that art educators play in diverse professional settings, including community organizations, non-government organizations, museums, galleries, and visitor centres. Learn more about how to apply.

Three program streams 
Students specialize in one of three program streams that allow exploration of current methodologies relevant to specific art education practices.

Applied Pedagogy in Art Education stream: designed for those seeking advanced training in the teaching of art to specific age groups including children, youth, adults, and the elderly in a variety of contexts such as educational institutions, retirement homes, and youth facilities. This stream focuses on the development of best practices associated with human development and well-being.

Museum and Curatorial stream: designed for those seeking advanced training in the delivery of art education programming in informal educational settings such as art museums, galleries, and other organizations that offer immersive visitor experiences. This stream expands on conventional approaches to public engagement with collections.

Community-Based Practice stream: designed for those seeking advanced training in responsive art education pedagogy that is grounded in the needs and experiences of communities. This stream focuses on outreach, activism, and contextualized learning about art and culture in ways that support equitable access to educational opportunities.

Develop a Unique Philosophy of Teaching in Art
We encourage students to consider their own life experiences and connect their art and teaching practices with pedagogical theory, conceptual understanding, and critical reflection. Courses model and develop socially responsible, exemplary teaching practices in and across art education contexts.

For more information
NSCAD Graduate admissions: admissions [​at​] nscad.ca 
Program director: Professor David B. Smith, dbsmith [​at​] nscad.ca.

NSCAD University, 5163 Duke Street, Halifax, NS B3J 3J6 Canada.