Thinking about turning your MFA into a teaching career? You’re not alone. Many artists wonder if they need a special credential to step into a classroom. The short answer: a teaching qualification can open doors, but it’s not as confusing as it sounds.
An MFA teaching qualification is basically a certification that proves you can teach at the secondary or post‑secondary level. It combines your Master of Fine Arts degree with the teacher‑prep steps required by your state or institution. You still keep the creative focus of your MFA, but you add the official paperwork schools ask for.
Why bother? Schools often list “state certification” or “teaching credential” as a must‑have. Without it, you might be limited to part‑time or adjunct gigs that don’t offer benefits or long‑term contracts. A qualified credential also signals to employers that you understand classroom management, lesson planning, and assessment — not just studio work.
First, it makes you eligible for full‑time positions. Public schools, community colleges, and many private programs require a valid teaching license before you walk in the door. Second, it can boost your salary. Certified teachers often start at a higher pay scale than those without credentials. Third, it adds credibility with students and parents who want to know you’re trained to teach, not just create.
Beyond the paycheck, having a qualification helps you move between different types of schools. Want to teach a high‑school art class one year and a college studio course the next? A solid credential keeps those options open. It also lets you apply for grants or leadership roles that ask for certified educators.
Step 1: Finish your MFA. Most states require a master’s degree in the subject you plan to teach, so you’re already covered.
Step 2: Gain classroom experience. Volunteer for a studio assistant role, lead workshops, or tutor high‑school students. Real‑world teaching minutes count toward the required practicum hours.
Step 3: Enroll in a teacher‑preparation program. Many universities offer a post‑baccalaureate or “alternative certification” track that fits artists’ schedules. These programs teach lesson‑plan design, classroom law, and assessment methods.
Step 4: Complete your student‑teaching placement. You’ll spend a semester in a real classroom under a seasoned mentor. This is where you turn theory into practice and earn the hours your state needs.
Step 5: Pass any required exams. Most states have a basic skills test (often called Praxis) and a subject‑specific test for art education.
Step 6: Apply for your license. Submit your transcript, test scores, and proof of student‑teaching to the state education board. Once approved, you’ll receive a teaching certificate that you can add to your résumé.
Quick tips: keep a teaching portfolio that includes lesson plans, student work, and reflections on your classroom experience. Network with art teachers at conferences or on social media – they often share job leads and advice on navigating the certification process.
Now that you know the steps, you can map out a realistic timeline. Most people finish the whole process in 12‑18 months after their MFA, but you can adjust based on your schedule and the state’s requirements.
Ready to turn your studio skills into a classroom career? Grab your MFA, follow the steps above, and you’ll be on the path to becoming a certified art teacher before you know it.
Explore whether a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) alone lets you teach, what extra credentials you need, and how it stacks up against other art degrees.