Maine College of Art & Design has announced plans to offer a fully online Master of Arts in Education program beginning in Fall 2025 to meet growing workforce demands for art educators, leaders, and administrators across the region and country. The initiative is a strategic priority as outlined in Maine College of Art & Design's Strategic Plan: Envisioning Our Future 2027.
“These online programs will build upon and leverage our unique strengths and characteristics to expand our audience and community while providing for the future adaptability of the College,” said President Laura Freid. “We ask our students to make art, make an impact, and inspire change, and these programs are a perfect fit for our portfolio and match workforce demands.”
The new online Master of Arts in Education was designed in partnership with Dr. Rachel Somerville, Chair of Art Education at Maine College of Art & Design. The program prepares students for employment and career advancement in both traditional and contemporary work settings, including community, museum and curatorial, and educational settings.
Students can build a custom program of study that aligns with their area of expertise and focus by choosing from a robust selection of electives, or students can choose either an Arts Leadership and Administration focus or an Expressive Arts Therapy focus—both resulting in a Graduate Certificate upon completion.
Associate Dean of Online Learning, Heather Holland, shared, “Maine College of Art & Design is a leader in art education. It is a natural next step to build these programs online enabling us to share our expertise with an even greater pool of students.”
The program can be completed in 12-18 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.
Online programs are scheduled to begin in August 2025, and program leaders are now accepting applications. Learn more at online.meca.edu.