The quest for meaningful work drives artistically inclined graduates to exceed conventional expectations. Community College of Denver (CCD) will be offering an Associate of Arts in Art Education starting Fall 2025. CCD’s Arts Education program is designed to equip students with knowledge in various art techniques and mediums, curriculum development, hands-on learning, and studio practice. Not only will students gain extensive understanding in these areas, but CCD offers a seamless transfer process to Metro State University Denver (MSU) for those looking to obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Unbeknownst to many, the career landscape is far more diverse and not simply limited to teaching art in a K-12 classroom – which is certainly a meaningful career for some. However, what if teaching is not for you? Let’s explore what unique career paths are attainable with a degree in Arts Education. 

Museum Education & Outreach

With in-classroom programs, museums need educators to host in-person and virtual presentations, interactive activities, field trips and workshops. This allows teachers to promote cultural awareness within the museum and through mobile exhibitions, while simultaneously giving back to the community and creating a relationship between the community and the museum itself. Other outreach programs target professional development for teachers to help integrate the museum and culture into the classroom.

Public Arts Administration 

All over the country, towns and cities, especially Denver, foster community art projects and need qualified people to oversee projects from start to finish. Arts administrators are directly responsible for managing public art installations, cultural events, community art initiatives, and project logistics, and oversee the conservation of historic buildings and museums. 

Art Therapy and Healing Arts

Art therapy has been proven to help those with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health issues, allowing one to feel a sense of control over their life and room for self-expression. While a career practicing art therapy in a clinical setting requires a master’s degree in Art Therapy, CCD helps create a solid foundation with an associate’s in Art Education, making it easy to transfer to MSU to obtain your bachelor’s and continue your education even further. 

However, many Art Education graduates work in additional settings that also support mental health. Often, these places include community centers, senior living facilities, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, and more.

Nonprofit Organizations

When it comes to art focused nonprofit organizations, employers seek those with a deep understanding of both artistic practices and educational outreach. Careers in the nonprofit sector include youth development specialist, program manager, marketing director, arts integration coordinator, art director, and much more. 

Entrepreneurial Ventures

If working for a company or organization isn’t the vibe, innovative graduates can explore their own options with opening independent art studios, creating physical art and digital products to sell, or even venture into educational consulting. The life of an entrepreneurial artist offers unlimited opportunities to grow your name and work, locally and nationally, or build a brand.