Admissions

Frequently Asked Questions

A master’s degree is a big decision – it should help you reach your professional goals and fit into your life. Wondering about tuition and financing, program structure, or how to select the degree that fits your goals? We’ve compiled answers to the most common to help guide you through the process.

How much does the degree cost?

The total cost for the degree program, including all tuition and fees and individual credit costs, can be viewed on Tuition and Fees. Pay as you go and schedule courses when they make sense with your finances. Students can make payments toward their courses when they pre-register. Tuition is due by the start date of the course.

Some courses have required textbooks and/or materials; click here to see the estimated cost for each course.

How many credits are required for each program?

The Master of Arts in Art Education (MAAE) is a 36-credit program and the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) is a 33-credit program. View the detailed course requirements for each:

I’ve taken AOEU courses before. Will they transfer?

You may be able to transfer up to 50% of the required courses into your degree program as long as the following conditions are met:

  • You earned 80% or higher in the applicable courses.
  • The course title and number of credits match current AOEU course offerings.
  • The courses are part of the degree program requirements.
  • For detailed information, refer to the Transfer Credit Policy.

Students have the most success when they work directly with their academic advisor to create a plan for their degree.

What are the required core courses?

View specific core courses for each program:

What are the elective courses?

The MAAE has a variety of elective courses to choose from, making the program highly customizable to each student’s unique goals. Whether you’re interested in studio art, differentiating for all learners, or integrating more technology, there is a broad selection of offerings to fulfill your 15 elective credits.

With the MEd you can choose a specialization in one of three tracks: Arts Integration, Instructional Leadership in Art Education, or Inclusive Practices for the Visual Arts. Each specialization has prescribed course requirements to fulfill the 12 credits required.

Once enrolled, your academic advisor can help you determine when you should take each course.

How long will a degree program take?

AOEU degrees are designed to be flexible, so you can plan a program that makes sense for your unique situation. We recommend a two-year timeline so you can complete your coursework at a steady pace. Students can take up to 5 years to complete their degree.

Once you’re enrolled in the program, your academic advisor can help you plan your degree timeline.

Contact us at admissions@theartofeducation.edu to work with an admissions counselor.

Do you offer financial aid?

Most AOEU students choose to pay-as-they-go. It’s convenient and affordable, and you can budget the monthly amount to pay out of pocket. Students who pre-register for courses can make payments toward their courses over time, as long as tuition is paid in full by the start date. Other students leverage district funds. If you want to complete the degree faster than you’re able to pay out of pocket, you can secure a private educational loan. There are several options, but at this time, The Art of Education University does not participate in federal financial aid programs.

How do I apply?

The application process includes components that showcase your credentials and background, including a short writing sample and a micro-portfolio with four images and descriptions. View the links below for more information about the process and specific application requirements.

For detailed information, refer to the Admissions Policy.

Is AOEU accredited?

Yes! The Art of Education University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) as a recognized accrediting agency. The DEAC is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). For more information about accreditation, click here.

How do I find out if AOEU’s master’s degree will work for me?

Every state has different requirements. We’ve outlined the major requirements by state for the degree program and course offerings. You can find this information on our interactive state map

For students who need a regionally accredited degree or coursework, AOEU has partnerships with regionally accredited universities. Complete this form for more information.

Still Have Questions?

Connect with someone from our admissions team using this form, by email admissions@theartofeducation.edu or phone at 515.236.5050.

For general inquiries, email help@theartofeducation.edu or call 515.293.4283