Education is an inspiring career choice that makes a lasting impression on young people’s lives. Teaching is more than just a profession; it’s a mission to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence in students.  If you’re passionate about shaping the next generation through a meaningful, fulfilling career, choosing the creative arts profile is your opportunity to make a difference every day.

What is the role of a Creative Arts Teacher?

Creative Arts educators empower students to express themselves and explore their creativity. Drama, fine arts, and music help students develop confidence, emotional intelligence, and an appreciation for artistic expression.

These teachers foster innovation and critical thinking while guiding learners to connect with culture and collaborate with others. Their classrooms encourage self-discovery and provide students with the tools to navigate a rapidly changing world.

At Bishop’s University’s School of Education, we prepare future Creative Arts educators to inspire and engage young minds. With a focus on fostering creativity and building essential life skills, our graduates are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their students’ lives.

To teach Creative Arts, individuals must choose one of the three profiles offered at Bishop’s: Drama, Fine Arts, or Music. Additionally, since this program qualifies students to teach at both elementary and secondary levels, practicums must be completed at both levels.

What are the Advantages of Teaching in the Creative Arts?

Choosing a career in Creative Arts education offers a fulfilling opportunity to inspire and nurture students’ creativity and personal growth. As a Creative Arts teacher, you’ll guide students in thinking outside the box, exploring their unique talents, and expressing their ideas through various artistic mediums.

Beyond fostering creativity, you’ll play a vital role in helping students build emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and teamwork skills through collaborative projects and performances. This profession offers the ability to watch students grow artistically while contributing to an interdisciplinary environment that values innovation, culture, and self-expression.

How to Become a Creative Arts Teacher in Quebec

Becoming a licensed teacher in Quebec starts here! At Bishop’s University, our Creative Arts Education program guides you through every step to graduate with the qualifications needed to apply for your teaching license and make a difference in students’ lives.

Complete a rigorous, practice-based Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.) degree tailored for creative arts teaching

To earn a Bachelor of Education in Teaching and Learning of the Creative Arts, students must complete a 150-credit program (120-credit program for students entering with a CEGEP diploma). Please also note that credits earned in certain DEC programs (Early Childhood Care and Education) or in other university programs may be recognized. The possibility of recognition of additional credits is evaluated after admission

Successfully complete your supervised field placements in real classrooms

Students must successfully complete the requirements of all practica components to complete the B.Ed. with recommendation to the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement Supérieur (MEES) for the brevet d’enseignement (Teaching Certificate). Since this program qualifies students to teach at both elementary and secondary levels, practicums must be completed at both levels.

Fulfill the Quebec Ministry of Education certification requirements, including the English Exam for Teacher Certification (EETC)

Students in all B.Ed. programs are required to pass the EETC approved by the Ministère de l’Éducation, et de l’Enseignement supérieur (MEES) prior to the fourth practicum (EDU 428/439). Success on this exam is a requirement for progression through the program. Although Bishop’s assists in coordinating the test, it is not a Bishop’s examination.

Explore our Academic Calendar for full program requirements

How Portable is a Teaching degree from Bishop’s?

Our program ensures you meet provincial licensing requirements, enabling you to teach anywhere in Quebec immediately. A teacher education degree obtained in Quebec is recognized across all of Canada, however some provinces and territories may impose additional requirements for certification. Therefore, it is highly recommended to visit the websites of the certification agencies in the specific provinces or territories where you intend to teach after completing your degree.

Teacher candidates who wish to teach in another province or in another country must first apply for and receive a Teacher Certification in Quebec before applying directly to the Teacher Certification Agency in the other relevant province or country.

Are Creative Arts Teachers in Demand?

The demand for qualified Creative Arts teachers is on the rise as schools increasingly recognize the value of arts education in shaping well-rounded students. Specialists in music, fine arts, and drama are highly sought after, with expanding opportunities across public, private, and alternative settings. 

Arts educators also play a crucial role in STEAM initiatives, where the integration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics highlights the importance of creativity and innovation. This growing recognition underscores the need for passionate teachers who can inspire and cultivate the next generation of creative thinkers.

Why Choose Education at Bishop’s?

At Bishop’s University’s School of Education, we are committed to preparing future educators who inspire, engage, and empower young learners, ensuring they are equipped to make a lasting impact during their students’ most formative years. We do this by providing:

A Personalized Learning Environment

You’ll benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from experienced faculty who are committed to your success. This personalized approach ensures that your academic and professional growth is supported every step of the way, allowing you to develop confidence in your skills and teaching methods.

Innovative Curriculum

Our program equips future educators with essential knowledge in teaching, learning, and classroom management. Foundational courses will guide you to understanding the psychological and social aspects of education and focus on creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. These courses focus on designing motivating learning situations and creating environments that stimulate the love of learning.

Through practical, targeted methods courses, students develop real-world strategies for teaching complex concepts while exploring the pedagogical use of technology to enhance teaching practices. You will engage with interdisciplinary teaching approaches with an emphasis on individual differences, inclusive and culturally responsive practices.

Aspiring educators will also develop assessment tools that provide constructive feedback and learn effective strategies for interacting with parents and the school team to support student success. Beyond the core curriculum, electives allow students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Extensive Practicum Experiences

Our field placements allow you to apply what you learn in real classroom settings. Starting from your first year, you’ll work closely with professional educators starting with classroom observations, to full-class responsibilities in your final year. Over your degree, you’ll complete a minimum of 700 hours of hands-on practical experience.

Community Connections

You’ll benefit from partnerships with local schools and organizations, fostering a strong sense of community and practical experience. These partnerships ensure that students receive mentorship from experienced educators, receive real-world teaching opportunities, and a network of connections that can help launch their careers.

Bishop’s University has established close partnerships with school boards across the region, providing our students with diverse and enriching field experiences. Some of these include the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB), the English Montreal School Board (EMSB), and the Central Quebec School Board (CQSB). You’ll work with vibrant English-language schools such as Lennoxville Elementary in Sherbrooke, Bancroft Elementary in Montreal, and St. Patrick’s Elementary in Quebec City.  Through the multiple years of experience, you’ll gain confidence in bilingual and multicultural settings, learn to incorporate inclusive teaching practices, and develop skills in integrating technology into the classroom.

Creative Arts Program Highlights

The B.Ed. program in Creative Arts at Bishop’s University is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in education while fostering specialized expertise in their chosen concentration. Students must choose one of the three creative arts profiles: Drama, Fine Arts, or Music. With a balance of foundational courses, practicum experiences, and concentration-specific offerings, students are well-equipped to inspire and engage learners in the arts.

In addition to educational foundations and methods courses, students will explore all aspects of theatre, from acting and directing to technical production and dramaturgy. This concentration immerses students in the rich and dynamic world of theatre, blending foundational knowledge, Canada’s unique theatrical traditions, performance skills, and production expertise to prepare educators capable of fostering creativity, self-expression, and a deep appreciation for the dramatic arts in their students. 

Students can personalize their journey through diverse elective options such as Introduction to Directing, Intermediate Technical Theatre Stagecraft, and Lighting Design which offer hands-on expertise in stagecraft. Capstone courses, including the Theatre Praxis: Contemporary Theatre Creation and Production Dramaturgy enable students to develop original works and refine their teaching methodologies.

The program also embraces the musical and movement dimensions of drama. Courses like Intro to Acting with Song focus on operetta and musical theatre, while Dance and Movement introduces students to the physicality of performance. For students interested in interdisciplinary approaches, Ritual and Theatre, Theatre and the State, and Women in Performance encourage critical engagement with the cultural and social impact of drama. 

Apply Now for a B.Ed. in Creative Arts – Drama Education 

In addition to educational foundations and methods courses, students can explore drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and printmaking. This concentration emphasizes creative expression and technical proficiency, equipping future educators to inspire students in the visual arts. Students are required to complete courses across specialized groups, ensuring a well-rounded education in various mediums.

Courses guide students through foundational techniques to advanced artistic expression, fostering an understanding of materials and design. Explore techniques and conceptual approaches to create compelling works emphasizing observation, composition, and personal style.

Students can personalize their journey through diverse elective options such as Colour: Theory and Practice, which delves into the science and aesthetics of color. Photography enthusiasts can progress through multiple levels of expertise, while courses such as Printmaking: Intaglio and Printmaking: Contemporary Practice provide hands-on experience with traditional and modern techniques. Unique offerings like Fibre Art and Landscape Drawing and Painting allow students to explore niche areas and expand their artistic horizons. 

Apply Now for a B.Ed. in Creative Arts – Fine Arts Education 

In addition to educational foundations and methods courses, students will learn theory, history, performance, and practical skills, equipping future educators with a deep understanding of music and its diverse applications in the classroom. 

Materials of Music and Musicianship build a strong foundation in music theory, ear training, and sight-reading, ensuring students master the essential elements of musical literacy. Students can personalize their studies by exploring music history through courses like The ABCs of Classical Music and Western Art Music 1750-1900. Reflecting the breadth of musical styles that students may encounter as educators, students can take courses in Rock 101, Classic Jazz, The Blues, and Film Music. The curriculum also includes unique perspectives on music’s psychological and cultural dimensions with Psychology of Music and the Fine Arts.

Performance is at the heart of the program, with opportunities to refine techniques in Improvisation and explore pedagogical methods in Instrument Techniques. Song and Instrumental Writing, Composition Styles, and Arranging and Scoring for Jazz and Pop Music provide advanced instruction in creative techniques. Instrumental skills are honed through Principal Instrument study, supported by courses such as Keyboard Proficiency and Introduction to Recording Technology.

Apply Now for a B.Ed. in Creative Arts – Music Education

Next Steps

Choosing to teach in an elementary setting can be a hugely rewarding and dynamic career choice. Bishop’s offers a comprehensive B.Ed. program that will encourage you to develop autonomy, critical reflection, and leadership skills.

We encourage you to keep exploring what it’s like to study at Bishop’s by booking a tour, or if you’re ready, apply!