The Department of Art offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education. Art Education today includes research, the study of educational theory, the development of studio skills and art historical understanding as well as practice in teaching. Students who major in art education graduate with a liberal arts education that includes minors in studio art and art history. A combination of study in studio art, art history, aesthetics and art criticism helps Art Education majors develop a comprehensive understanding of how art knowledge is organized and conveyed. In addition, students engage in research and study the historical, cultural, psychological and philosophical foundations of art education and gain practical, hands-on experience in the teaching process. The Art Education Program at the University of Maine is accredited through the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and leads to K-12 art teacher certification. As a result of their education, graduates are well prepared for graduate study in art education as well as a wide-spectrum of related areas.