Teaching art can be a very enjoyable and rewarding career. The steps necessary to become an art teacher vary depending upon the field a person desires to work in. The most common and recognized way to become an art teacher is to first complete undergraduate studies. A Bachelor's degree from a teacher education program, or in a specific subject of art is very helpful, thought not required. A degree in art history, fine or visual art, or even graphic design is recommended for those that want to become an art teacher.

To teach in most public schools, colleges, and universities, a person needs to pursue graduate studies or certification courses. In the U.S., it is common for those who want to teach in a public elementary, intermediate, or high school to complete a teacher education certification in addition to a Bachelor's degree. Completion of a graduate degree will likely increase the salary of an art teacher, as well as provide more flexibility to move about in this career field.

To teach at a community or two year college, completion of a Master's degree in an art related field is required. At the university level, a PhD is usually needed, and this should be obtained from an accredited, well-respected university.

Private elementary and high schools will often hire teachers who are not certified. Sometimes they will even hire teachers who have a great deal of experience, or who are knowledgeable about a certain type of art, but do not necessarily have a formal education.

Some states in the U.S. approve private school teachers who possess at least a bachelor's degree to apply for a state-issued teaching license after a number of years of teaching and certain conditions are met. Licensing varies by state and should be verified by contacting the state teacher licensing board. This is another route available for those who want to become an art teacher and also earn a license or certification to teach.

Yet another route, and likely the most promising one, to becoming an art teacher is to first decide which type of art you want to teach, and which sector you want to teach in, be it public, private, or non-profit. From there, contact human resources or hiring departments and learn the requirements needed to work as an art teacher. Take advantage of volunteer opportunities and internships in hopes of securing a paid position teaching art.

The decision to become an art teacher is one that can lead to a career working with students of various ages and abilities. There are opportunities to move about in the field, and art teachers are not limited to teaching at public or private schools. Other art teaching jobs can be found in hospitals, elderly care facilities, community recreation programs, prisons, rehabilitation centers, and at privately owned businesses, such as art centers and art museum programs.