Built By Art Teachers, For Art Teachers
What makes AOEU different? Everything—from the faculty to the format—is designed specifically for art educators.
Our Mission
“We grow amazing teachers by providing rigorous, relevant, and engaging learning at every stage of their career.”
Why Students Choose AOEU
Designed for the Art Room
Every course is art-specific, actionable, and immediately relevant—no more translating general education content for your classroom.
Flexible for Working Teachers
Courses are fully online and self-paced, giving you the freedom to engage when and how it works best for you.
Art Educator Faculty
100% of our faculty are practicing or former art teachers who know the realities of your classroom and your creative practice. You’ll feel seen and supported every step of the way.
Trusted by Teachers Nationwide
#1
Largest Art Education Master’s Programs in the U.S.
800+
Degree Program Graduates Since 2019
40+
Art Education Faculty
Our Institutional History
AOEU started with a simple belief: art teachers deserve better.
Better professional development. Better graduate programs. A university actually built for them.
Co-founders Jessica and Derek Balsley knew the gap firsthand. Jessica was an art teacher who struggled to find professional development and graduate coursework that was relevant, practical, and accessible for practicing art educators. Most options were geographically limited or failed to address the unique demands of the art classroom. Together, the Balsleys set out to close that gap, launching The Art of Education (AOE) in 2011 with a library of free content and, soon after, online graduate-level courses designed specifically for K–12 art teachers.
Demand for a specialized, fully online graduate degree grew quickly. AOE pursued institutional accreditation and, in 2018, became the first fully accredited graduate university exclusively serving K–12 art educators, formally changing its name to The Art of Education University (AOEU). Today, AOEU serves K–12 educators in public and private schools around the globe, offering graduate degrees and certificates for those seeking to deepen their practice, integrate the arts across the curriculum, or step into leadership roles.
2011
Jessica and Derek Balsley founded The Art of Education (AOE)
2018
AOE received initial accreditation through the DEAC and became The Art of Education University (AOEU)
2019
AOEU launched a 100% online Master of Arts in Art Education and enrolled the first degree-seeking cohort
2023
AOEU launched a second 100% online degree, the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction program
2024
DEAC approved a mission change to broaden institutional focus from art teachers to all K–12 educators pursuing art education
2025
AOEU launched Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Studio Art Certificates
World-Class Faculty & Academic Staff
AOEU has the largest art education faculty in the country. Wherever and whatever grades you teach, you’ll find instructors who understand your classroom—plus access to advising, writing, and library services to help you thrive.
Advancing the Future of Art Education
The Center for the Advancement of Art Education (CAAE) is AOEU’s research and innovation hub, designed to create what’s next in K–12 visual arts education.
By partnering with districts, listening to educators, leading original research, and collaborating with thought leaders, CAAE delivers evidence-based insights that inform decisions, strengthen instructional practice, and advocate for equitable access to high-quality visual arts education for all students.
A University—and So Much More
The Art of Education is committed to supporting art educators at every stage of their careers. Beyond the University, you’ll find curriculum, on-demand PD, online conferences, and a library of free media—all designed specifically for art teachers.
Wherever you are in your journey, AOE is here to grow with you.
Join Our Mission
Join Our Team
Are you passionate about making a difference in education? Learn more about working at AOE.