This program uses a field-based model in which the issues and topics that make up the university curriculum are immediately put into practice in public school, public school academy, or selected private school classrooms.  Conversely, students' real-life experiences in actual classrooms become the basis for further discussion and study.

Students will complete 120 hours of field experience over a minimum of four semesters throughout their education sequence.  These fields will expose them to different student age groups and instructional levels.  Additionally, students will complete a semester long student teaching placement.  Participants will have completed all their other coursework, including the extensive field components, prior to beginning the internship.

If students are taking classes in the spring and summer semesters, they have a placement in either schools or in tutoring programs.  Field placements are arranged to place Art Education students in settings where they can observe, learn from, and work with veteran art educators who can mentor them in effective art education practices.

Commitment to Diversity

Oakland University is committed to preparing teachers who are capable and willing to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural, ethnic and national origins.  To this end, students will be immersed in field experiences in urban and suburban settings at both the elementary and secondary levels.  Additionally, students will be involved in Oakland's OUCares for Autism as art teachers who design appropriate and effective curriculum to teach autistic children, under the supervision of a trained art therapist with autism specialization.

School and Field Services

All field placements and student teaching assignments are arranged by the Office of School and Field Services.  Informational meetings for students at various stages of the program are held each semester, with the dates of these meetings published on this website.  The Director and Coordinator of Field Services are available to resolve any problem involving placements in the public schools.

Career Services

Each student has the opportunity to register with the Office of Career Services.  Students are assisted in developing a professional resume, portfolio, and securing appropriate letters of recommendation.  This office also maintains a listing of professional job opportunities.

State Certification Requirements

In addition to meeting the degree requirements and passing the required MTTC tests for certification.  Candidates for initial teaching certification must present evidence of satisfactory completion of a course in first aid and adult and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including a test demonstration on a mannequin, and successful completion of instruction in foreign body airway obstruction management, holding valid certification in these topics issued by the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

For additional information contact:

Teacher Development and Educational Studies:  Linda Tyson, Art Education, 370H Pawley Hall, Tyson@oakland.edu, 248-370-3197

Department of Art and Art History: Claude Baillargeon, Art, 318 Wilson Hall, baillarg@oakland.edu, 248-370-3388

School & Field Services:

• Sharon Hiller, Director, 381 Pawley Hall, hiller@oakland.edu, 248-370-3083
• David Secord, Coordinator, 379 Pawley Hall, dmsecord@oakland.edu, 248-370-4251
• Linda Dauzy, Office Assistant, 385 Pawley Hall, grunow@oakland.edu, 248-370-3060