After announcing plans in January of this year to launch online learning, Maine College of Art & Design is pleased to announce that the College has exceeded initial enrollment projections by over 55% for its inaugural class, which begins August 18. A leader in art education, the program’s offerings were designed to meet the growing demand for art educators, leaders, and administrators across the region and country.
“We believe in the value and power of arts education, and now, more than ever, it’s important to cultivate creativity in our learners and our community,” shared Dr. Laura Freid, President of Maine College of Art & Design. “With our Master of Arts in Education, and Graduate Certificates in Expressive Arts Therapy and Arts Leadership and Administration online learning programs, we can share our expertise with broader audiences, and we are pleased to have such a large incoming class to join us in this pursuit.”
A strategic priority outlined in Maine College of Art & Design's Strategic Plan: Envisioning Our Future 2027, the new online Master of Arts in Education was designed in partnership with Dr. Rachel Somerville, Chair of Art Education, Heather Holland, Associate Dean of Online Learning, and Ian Anderson, Vice President of Academic Affairs & Dean of the College. The program prepares students for professional opportunities and career advancement in traditional and contemporary settings, such as K-12 public and private education, museum and curatorial work, community organizations, and nonprofit arts management.
Heather Holland, Associate Dean of Online Learning at MECA&D, shared, “With learners from 18 states coming from as far west as Washington and as far south as Florida, it’s clear that we are meeting a demand and meeting students where they are located. Our faculty are tremendous practitioners, and we are thrilled to have such a diverse and enthusiastic cohort. We look forward to delivering an outstanding learning experience to our students.”
This significant demand aligns with national trends. According to the latest "Changing Landscape of Online Education" report, nearly 70% of institutions report year-over-year growth in fully online graduate enrollment, with more than half citing increased demand among working professionals seeking flexible, career-focused programs.
Students can create a customized program of study that aligns with their area of expertise and focus by selecting from a diverse range of electives. Alternatively, students can opt for either an Arts Leadership and Administration focus or an Expressive Arts Therapy focus, both of which result in a Graduate Certificate upon completion.
The program can be completed in as little as 10 months and is designed for working professionals who need the flexibility to balance work, life, and classes. Online classes will be small in size, a hallmark of a Maine College of Art & Design education, making it possible for students to connect with faculty and classmates. Online courses are offered asynchronously, allowing students to complete readings and assignments on their own schedule.
We are now accepting students for Spring 2026. Learn more at online.meca.edu.