The state of Ohio offers art endorsement for teachers from grades K-12. Anyone with an interest in art education can follow the steps necessary to become a certified art teacher at the grade level of their choice.
Teacher Salary Information and Requirements for Ohio Teachers
| Average Salary for Teachers in Ohio (2019)* | $30,240 (Preschool), $58,960 (Kindergarten), $64,090 (Elementary), $63,510 (Middle), $64,410 (Secondary) |
| Required Degree | Bachelor's degree |
| Degree Field | Art Education |
| Testing Requirements | 2 OAEs: Assessment of Professional Knowledge, Art |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
The first step toward certification is for students to enroll in an approved, accredited teacher preparation program and graduate with a degree in art education. This program will prepare students to teach all ages and multiple areas of art. Additionally, all programs will require students to participate in teaching internships to gain practical experience in the classroom prior to graduation. It is key that students choose a program that best fits their needs, since there are multiple programs to choose from. Students should consult Ohio's Department of Education website for a complete list of options. All programs will be slightly different depending on the college, but most will include topics like:
- Visual arts education
- Individuals with exceptionalities
- Teaching philosophies
- Child development
Step 2: Pass All Required OAE Exams
The next step for any prospective art teacher in Ohio is to complete the necessary Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) exams. First, teachers will need to take the Assessment of Professional Knowledge: Multi-Age (PK-12). This is a 3 hour test that costs $105 and is made up of 100 multiple-choice questions, 1 case study written assignment, and 1 work product assignment. A score of 220 or higher is required. Next, teachers will take the Art OAE, which is also $105 and takes 3 hours. This exam is computer-based and 150 multiple-choice questions. A score of 220 or higher is also required on this exam. Both tests are administered statewide at computer-based testing sites.
Step 3: Submit a Background Check
Ohio requires teachers to undergo a background check at the time they are ready to apply for their license. Background checks cannot be older than 365 days if they are to be used for the application. The background check will be valid for five years. If a teacher lives out of state at any point, though, they will need to provide background checks from both Ohio and the place they lived. Background checks will need to be sent to the Ohio Department of Education.
Step 4: Complete the Application for Certification
Future art educators in Ohio will then need to complete the application process. Ohio uses an online application through the Department of Education, which teachers will need to locate and fill out. There is a $160 fee teachers will pay for their license on the site. The application will be processed once all transcripts, OAE test scores, and the background check have all been submitted. Teachers will then receive their initial license, called the Resident Educator License, which is valid in the state of Ohio for four years.
Resources for Future Ohio Teachers
Don't hesitate to start looking into available information about the Assessment of Professional Knowledge and the Art OAEs you will take in the future. Check out the study guide below for practice and information about the Assessment of Professional Knowledge.
- OAE Assessment of Professional Knowledge PK-12: Study Guide & Practice
