Author: Darrell Simmons

Amy’s journey: Graphic design to teacher with an MA in Art Education 

For Amy Goins, the journey to becoming an art educator has been anything but traditional. With a background in graphic design, a master’s in instructional design and technology, and years spent working in creative roles, including seven years in interior design and merchandising, teaching wasn’t part of her original plan. She had always wondered how to become an art teacher, so when an art teaching position opened at a local Indiana school, Amy decided to take a leap. 

“I interviewed thinking I wasn’t qualified,” she said. “But they offered me the job on the spot. It was a very quick — and stressful — transition into teaching.” 

After stepping into the role, Amy entered a transition-to-teaching program but soon realized the curriculum didn’t align with the needs of an art educator. “If I’m putting all this work in, I want it to be meaningful to my practice,” she said. That realization led her to search for a dedicated master’s in art education at Ohio State. 

Why Amy chose Ohio State

Amy enrolled in the online Master of Arts in Art Education in January 2024 and immediately found the coursework transformative. 

“I wouldn’t say it was one course — truly every course taught me something I could immediately apply to my classroom,” she shared. “There were things I would have never thought about as an art educator without this program.” 

One defining moment for Amy came in a course focused on essential questions and big-idea lesson planning. “It really made me reconsider what I was teaching,” she said. “As teachers, it’s easy to fall back on filler lessons when you’re overwhelmed. This program helped me build a more intentional, meaningful curriculum.” 

Balancing work, family, and full-time study

Amy is a full-time teacher, a mom, and the leader of multiple extracurriculars, including clubs and yearbook. She has found the fully online format along with strategic time management to have been essential to her success as a student. 

“The online structure works perfectly for me,” she said. “It’s a lot of work, but if you make a schedule and stick to it, it’s absolutely doable. It fits my life as a teacher and a mom.” 

Even with a busy schedule, Amy accelerated her progress, taking five summer classes to stay on track to graduate earlier than expected — a reminder that how long it takes to become an art teacher can vary based on commitment and course load. “It was intense,” she said. “But the work is so rewarding.” 

A supportive community of artists and educators

One of the most meaningful parts of the program is the community. 

“It’s so inspiring to engage every week with other artists and educators who work as hard as you do,” Amy said. “The discussions, the feedback from instructors — it all helps you grow. There’s no judgment. It’s welcoming no matter your background.” 

The program’s intentionally small cohort model also creates space for students to genuinely connect. “I’ve actually become friends with classmates. I follow some on social media, we email, we check in about lesson plans,” she said. “I’ll definitely stay in touch after graduation.” 

Preparing for what’s next

When considering her future career path as an art teacher, Amy plans to complete the program in December 2025 and apply for her Indiana teaching license shortly thereafter. She hopes to continue teaching in public schools for another decade before transitioning into higher education. 

“I think this program prepares you for that next step,” she said. “If I had stayed in the transition-to-teaching program, I wouldn’t be the educator I am today. The content here is so valuable.” 

Long-term, Amy also hopes to pursue doctoral study. 

Advice for future online Master of Art Education students

For anyone considering the Master of Arts in Art Education, especially those wondering how to become an art teacher, Amy has clear advice: 

“This program is the perfect fit. The instructors give personal feedback, the environment is supportive, and you gain new perspectives that truly shape your practice. If you want to grow as an art educator, I would highly recommend it.” 

Take the next step in your art teacher career path

The online Master of Arts in Art Education at The Ohio State University is designed for educators and creative professionals who want to strengthen their impact in classrooms, museums, and community spaces. Through advanced study, students explore new approaches to teaching, curriculum design, and their creative practice. Graduates of the program are equipped to advocate for the value of the arts and create meaningful learning experiences that inspire students in a variety of settings. Please note: the Master of Arts in Art Education does not lead to teaching licensure. 

Wondering how to become an art teacher or take your teaching to the next level? Learn more about Ohio State’s online Master of Arts in Art Education and contact an Enrollment Advisor today! 

Supporting military-affiliated students in early childhood education 

Ohio State provides high-quality, flexible educational options that fit the unique needs of military-affiliated students. The fully online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education program is designed to help students build foundational skills in child development and education in an accessible online format. 

Whether you’re transitioning out of the military or your spouse is an active service member, Ohio State offers the flexibility and support you need to advance in early childhood education.  

Benefits for military-affiliated students 

What is the Virtual Lab School? 

The Virtual Lab School (VLS) was developed in partnership with The Ohio State University and the U.S. Department of Defense to provide professional development for early childhood educators working in military childcare settings. This innovative online learning platform offers interactive training modules, real-world video examples, and expert-developed coursework focused on early childhood education best practices. The program is designed to help students and educators apply their learning in real-world settings while developing strong skills in child development, classroom management, and curriculum implementation. A standout feature of Ohio State’s Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education program is its connection with the VLS.  

Applying Virtual Lab School credits toward your online associate degree

Through the VLS, students gain insights into military-affiliated childcare systems and develop the expertise needed to work in Child Development Centers (CDCs) and other accredited early childhood programs. Registered Virtual Lab School users who have completed all 15 foundational courses within the Infants & Toddlers, Preschool, or School-Age tracks can apply 13 credit hours from the Virtual Lab School toward Ohio State’s online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education.  

Tuition assistance and GI Bill benefits 

We understand that tuition assistance is a crucial factor for military-connected students. Ohio State Online honors the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance (TA) programs, helping eligible service members, veterans, and their dependents cover tuition costs. Our dedicated Military and Veterans Services Office is available to guide you through the financial aid process, ensuring you maximize your education benefits. 

Additionally, Ohio State is a Yellow Ribbon Program participant, which means qualifying students may receive additional funding to cover tuition and fees that the GI Bill does not fully cover. 

Career-focused flexibility 

Many military-affiliated students balance coursework with full-time jobs, family obligations, and deployments or relocations. Our fully online and asynchronous Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education program provides the flexibility to study from anywhere, allowing you to complete assignments and engage in coursework on your own schedule. 

An associate’s degree in early childhood education can lead to rewarding careers in childcare centers, preschools, and early learning programs — roles that are needed across the country and around the world. This is particularly beneficial for military spouses who require a portable career that can move with them during relocations. 

Advance your ECE career with Ohio State Online 

Earning your Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education from Ohio State Online opens doors to fulfilling career opportunities while providing the flexibility and support needed for military-affiliated students.  

Ready to take the next step? Explore the AA of Early Childhood Development and Education and connect with an enrollment advisor today! 

Use your CDA for credit towards an early childhood education degree 

If you’re passionate about supporting young children and families and want to turn that passion into a rewarding, long-term career, Ohio State’s online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education is the perfect next step. This flexible degree builds on your existing experience and creates clear pathways for future growth, including a seamless transition into Ohio State’s Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science. 

What is a CDA in early childhood education? 

Some early childhood professionals begin their careers by earning the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, a widely recognized certification in the field. At Ohio State, we value the work you’ve already put into achieving your CDA. That’s why your CDA credential can count for up to 13 credit hours toward the AA in Early Childhood Development and Education. 

This means you’ll save both time and money as you pursue your degree, moving more quickly toward your academic and career goals. 

Why earn an online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education? 

The Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education goes beyond foundational training. In this program, you’ll: 

  • Gain deeper knowledge of child growth, learning, and development. 
  • Learn how to design engaging learning environments for children. 
  • Explore family and community partnerships in education. 
  • Strengthen your professional skills to take on new responsibilities. 

Whether you’re seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, or stronger qualifications for teaching and leadership roles, an associate degree can be an important investment in your future. 

Stack your credentials for long-term success 

Your academic journey doesn’t have to stop with an associate degree. At Ohio State, the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education stacks directly into the Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science. 

That means once you complete the associate degree, you’ll already be on track to continue your education seamlessly if you decide that’s the right step for you. A bachelor’s degree can open doors to advanced roles in education, administration, and human services, as well as preparation for graduate-level study. 

Take the next step 

If you already hold a CDA credential, you’re closer than you think to completing your online degree. With Ohio State’s online AA in Early Childhood Development and Education or Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science you can build on your experience, advance your career, and open doors to even greater opportunities in education, family services, and beyond. 

Master of Learning Technologies graduates create course focused on generative AI in K-12 education 

For Jason Hazel and Jason Johns, graduates of the Master of Learning Technologies (MLT) program, their journey reshaped their understanding of instructional design and educational technology. Their experience with educational theory and their collaborative research led to the development of a course designed to assist K-12 educators in how best to understand and utilize emerging AI technologies. 

From media production to educational theories 

Both Hazel and Johns began the Master of Learning Technologies at Ohio State in the spring of 2021, seeking a deeper understanding of educational technology theories and instructional design. Having both spent years in media production for instructional content, they wanted to explore the overlap between content creation and pedagogical effectiveness. 

Reflecting on the beginning of their academic journey, Hazel shared, “I’d been working at the university [Ohio State] for seven years doing media production for promotional and instructional media, and it was kind of like I need to get a better grasp of learning theories and answering the question, ‘why am I creating this?’” 

“The program helped me understand why I was making instructional materials and how they fit into the larger learning experience,” he shared. “When I first started the program, I wasn’t as concerned with the learning theory… Once I finished it, I was like ‘This is a big deal’ and it was also really interesting.” 

A flexible, collaborative learning experience 

One of the defining aspects of the MLT online degree is its flexibility, allowing students like Hazel and Johns to balance coursework with personal and professional responsibilities. “There were times I was attending class on an iPad while giving my daughter a bath,” Hazel recalled. “Everyone in the program understood that we all had busy lives.” 

Despite being an online educational technology program, both graduates emphasized the strong sense of community fostered through collaborative learning. From the first class, they had structured group discussions, office hours with instructors, and peer learning opportunities. 

“We designated times to meet and talk about all the readings or whatever we’re going over. Being able to have that that support right there was fantastic. Even though it was online learning, it really didn’t feel that way,” Hazel shared. 

The structure of the MLT program facilitated collaboration and peer learning. As Johns noted, “It was nice to have that support with each other to be like, ‘did you know what this means? Can we find an example of this thing?’”  

Developing a course on generative AI for K-12 educators 

For those wondering “what can I do with an educational technology degree,” Hazel and Johns offer a clear example. For their capstone project, they worked under the guidance of Dr. Rick Voithofer to create an online course on generative AI for K-12 educators. The course aimed to empower teachers by demonstrating how AI can be effectively utilized in their teaching methods, as well as helping students harness AI for learning. The self-paced course, Generative AI Multimedia for Education, is available on Ohio State’s Professional and Continuing Education portal. 

Dr. Voithofer was already developing AI-focused courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels, so their project aligned well with his work. The capstone involved months of research, content creation, and instructional design. “We acted as both subject matter experts and designers,” Hazel said. “It was a lot of late nights, but it was fun.”  

The role of AI in teaching and active learning 

In discussing the role of AI in teaching and active learning, the duo emphasizes that AI cannot replace the foundational aspects of learning, but it can serve as a valuable tool to enhance the learning experience. “It’s just another tool for the same kind of learning and teaching that the instructors are already doing,” Johns shared. 

They also emphasized active learning strategies in their course design, such as designing activities where students collaboratively created AI-generated content. For example, students would imagine a character and setting, then the teacher would use AI to generate a scene based on their input.  

Johns explained, “It’s a way to get students to understand this is what generative AI is without having to have elementary school students go and generate material.” 

Ethical considerations with AI in education  

The course also incorporates discussions on AI ethics, digital security, and data privacy. Hazel and Johns integrated ethical considerations throughout, ensuring that educators understand the potential risks and responsibilities. 

Hazel highlighted, “We try to have at least one kind of [ethical] highlight in every single one of the different modalities. So for AI imagery, we added discussions on AI inaccuracies and hallucinations, especially with anything with text.” 

Another aspect highlighted in the course is implicit bias in content generation, “We even have a comparison of if you generated an image of a ‘professional looking doctor’. Firefly gives you a bunch of diversity, but Canva will give you 3 white men instead,” Johns shared. 

Leaving a lasting impact 

Their work has already influenced education at Ohio State, with faculty incorporating elements of their project into ongoing educational technology curriculum development. “Rick has already started to pick and choose different things that he wants to take from this,” Hazel shared, “One thing we wanted to walk away with was something that we could point to, to be like, this is still being put to use within the university.” 

The pair have even considered adapting lessons from their online course to other formats, “There are some things in this that would be fun to do in a workshop, in-person format or in a hybrid situation,” Hazel stated. 

Hazel and Johns’ journey through the MLT program highlights the impact of combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. Their work in generative AI for K-12 education demonstrates how instructional designers can empower educators with innovative tools while addressing ethical challenges. As artificial intelligence continues to shape the future of learning, projects like theirs ensure that educators remain at the forefront of these advancements. 

Want to learn more about the Master of Learning Technologies? Contact an enrollment advisor today. 

Current Student reflects on her journey through the Master of Arts in Bioethics

Jessie Cheng, an online student who recently completed her coursework for the Spring 2025 semester in the Master of Bioethics program at Ohio State, is gearing up to begin her thesis work this fall. Her reflections on the Master of Arts in Bioethics program are nothing short of passionate. 

“I have to say I love this program. I’m like a walking advertisement for the program,” she shares. “I submitted my last paper, and I literally submitted it, closed my computer and just started sobbing. I have just had the best experience. I’ve loved the professors. I’ve loved the coursework, all of it.” 

Her heartfelt words capture the transformative impact of the program and the deep sense of purpose it has given her as she prepares to take the next step in her bioethics journey. 

Jessie’s background 

Jessie brings a unique blend of nursing expertise and ministry experience to her work. With over two decades as a registered nurse, her career has spanned critical care, oncology, and high-level disaster response across the globe.  

As she considered the next step in her career, she was seeking something that would allow for her to work-from-home and also something that would utilize her medical knowledge. She was able to transition into a legal nurse consulting role but soon realized her knowledge of bioethics was lacking. 

“All of my cases are basically medical ethical cases. And as I was working these cases, I was realizing that I have the medical knowledge, but I was ill-equipped in the ethical aspect.” 

Pursuing a Master’s in Bioethics 

Jessie’s experience handling complex medical cases sparked a desire to deepen her understanding of the ethical issues intertwined with healthcare. That realization led her to research the best bioethics master’s programs. 

“I discovered bioethics and very quickly I knew I wanted to get my master’s,” she shared. “I applied to several schools, got accepted to all of them. But something about OSU just felt right. I really can’t explain it.”  

Affordability also played a key role in her decision. As a single mother caring for a medically dependent child, she needed a program that was both flexible and financially accessible.  

“One of the other programs I got accepted for was $100,000 [in tuition]. OSU is very affordable.”  

Since enrolling, Jessie has found the curriculum both thought-provoking and deeply relevant to her past experiences. One course stood out:  

“I did really like Dr. O’Mathúna, who teaches the disaster response and humanitarian crises course… It was just so amazing to think back to all the disasters that I responded to and now look at it through an ethical perspective.” 

Founding a student journal club 

In addition to her coursework, Jessie has made a lasting impact by launching a journal club within the program. Recognizing a desire for deeper connection in an asynchronous online environment, she took the initiative to create space for meaningful dialogue. 

“Some grad programs have something called Journal Club, where you get together once a month. You read a paper or article in advance, and then you discuss it,” she shared. 

With support from faculty, Jessie established an optional monthly club where students and faculty are welcome to gather virtually to discuss a relevant article. The journal club is intended to be a space for rich academic conversations, sometimes even prompting follow-up discussions with faculty members outside of class.  

“One of the professors that attended gave me some new insight into a particular topic, and we followed up with a phone conversation a couple weeks later. It was really helpful for me,” Cheng shared. 

Her goal is to continue the journal club through graduation and eventually “pass the torch” to future students.  

“When we have the chance to sit down face- to- face and have actual dialogue, our perspectives are broadened,” she said. 

What can you do with a Masters in Bioethics? Jessie’s future goals 

As Jessie has progressed through the program, she has fallen in love with the field of bioethics and found herself wondering, “What kind of jobs can you get with a master’s in bioethics?” Since beginning her graduate program, her career goals have evolved alongside her studies. Cheng has considered applying her bioethics knowledge to a clinical ethicist role in a hospital.  

“I loved clinical ethics, and it made me think that I might land in clinical ethics at a hospital,” she shared. “A clinical ethicist, who usually works for the hospital, comes in, evaluates the facts, talks to the various stakeholders, and tries to determine what is ethical and what is not in the situation,” she explained. 

“I came out wanting to do something completely different from what I do now… I don’t have a desire to continue legal nurse consulting. I have a desire to work in the field of bioethics in some capacity.” 

Though her academic chapter isn’t fully closed, she plans to do research over the summer and write her thesis in the fall, Jessie’s enthusiasm for Ohio State’s Bioethics program is clear. 

“I started in autumn of 2023, and I thought it would take five years to finish. I did my coursework in two years. It’s just been an incredible experience.” 

Ready to take your next career step in bioethics? Request more information  about the online Master of Arts in Bioethics program today.  

What does an Enrollment Advisor do? Ohio State Online Enrollment Advisor shares her role at Career Day 

When Kelsey Dunn, an enrollment advisor at Ohio State Online, received an invitation to speak at Career Day at the World Language Middle School in Columbus, Ohio, she was both honored and delighted. The request came from Elena Schmitt, a current student in Ohio State’s online Master of Learning Technologies program who wanted her former advisor to share insights about the pivotal role of OSU enrollment services with her 8th grade students. 

What is an Enrollment Advisor? 

Enrollment advisors like Kelsey are often the first point of contact for prospective students considering an online degree at Ohio State. When you inquire for more information about an Ohio State Online program, you’ll be connected with an Enrollment Advisor like Kelsey, who will reach out to you by phone, text, or email to answer questions and guide you through the process.  

Their responsibilities extend beyond merely providing information, they serve as navigators, helping students chart their educational paths. Enrollment Advisors help potential students understand the various programs available, application requirements, procedures, and what to expect once enrolled.  

They take the time to learn about each student’s background, interests, and future goals to ensure they’re recommending the program that best fits their needs and aspirations. An Enrollment Advisor’s goal is to ensure every student feels supported, informed, and confident when considering the next step in their educational journey. 

Elena’s Ohio State journey 

Elena Schmitt’s journey into the Master of Learning Technologies program was influenced by Kelsey’s guidance. Elena, a physical education teacher at World Languages Middle School and Ohio State undergraduate alum, was ready to further her educational technology knowledge. She found Ohio State’s online Master of Learning Technologies to be a great fit with its flexible format and high-quality curriculum.  

After inquiring about the Master of Learning Technologies program, Kelsey reached out to answer questions such as “Is a master’s in educational technology worth it?”, “How long will it take to complete the program?”, and “How do I complete an application?” 

Elena’s positive experience while inquiring about her online degree motivated her to invite Kelsey to speak at a career day organized by Schmitt, hoping to shed light on the essential support Enrollment Advisors provide to online students.   

Inspiring the next generation at World Language Middle School 

World Language Middle School is known for its commitment to multilingual education and cultural immersion. The school serves students from various backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of global citizenship and multilingual proficiency. 

During her presentation, Kelsey engaged students with interactive discussions about the college enrollment process and the significance of support roles in higher education. She emphasized that careers in education are not limited to teaching; roles like hers are crucial in shaping academic experiences as well. 

Kelsey Dunn speaks with a student during Career Day at World Languages Middle School.

The impact of support roles in education 

Kelsey’s visit to World Language Middle School highlighted the profound impact that support roles have on students’ educational journeys. By sharing her experiences, she not only informed students about a potential career path but also inspired them to consider pursuing a college degree in general. 

Learn more about online programs at Ohio State Online 

Enrollment Advisors like Kelsey are integral to the success of online students at Ohio State Online. They provide personalized support, ensuring that each student is well-equipped to embark on their academic journey when pursuing an online degree. 

To learn more about online degree programs and get in touch with your Enrollment Advisor, request information or email us at onlineenrollment@osu.edu. 

Early Childhood Education Online: Rabia’s Journey with Ohio State

If you’re passionate about shaping young minds and considering a career in early childhood education, the online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education could be the perfect starting point. Hear from Rabia Khan, a recent graduate who turned her passion into a fulfilling career. 

 Rabia’s story

A flexible, career-building program

Rabia Khan, an Early Childhood Educator at the A. Sophie Rogers Schoenbaum Family Center, chose Ohio State’s online associate degree because she wasn’t initially ready to commit to a four-year program. “I didn’t want to start a four-year degree and then drop out midway and feel disappointed. Once I started, honestly, I loved it so much that now I’ve started my bachelor’s in human development family sciences,” she shares. 

One of the biggest advantages of the program? Flexibility of online learning.

“Because it was totally asynchronous and online, it gave me a lot of flexibility. I thought it was going to be difficult since I’m a distant student, but the professors were only one email away.” 

From personal experience to professional growth

Having lived in Ohio for over a decade, Rabia was a stay-at-home mom before pursuing her degree. Her inspiration to enter early childhood education (ECE) came from personal experience: her son had special needs, and she saw firsthand the critical role that early childhood education plays in development.

“He had amazing teachers, when I would see that I really wanted to do that for someone else. That was my main motivation to do what I’m doing right now.” 

Through the program, Rabia developed a deep understanding of child development, language acquisition, and early learning strategies. “One of my absolute favorite courses was early childhood language and literacy development. It just amazed me how important that is, developing their language early on. You’re basically setting their foundation.” 

A degree that opens doors

Rabia credits her online associate degree with giving her the tools to apply her knowledge in real-world classroom settings.

“I had bits and pieces here and there, but when I started pursuing the degree, everything came together, and it turned my information into knowledge that I now implement into the classroom and at home” 

For those considering a future in pre-school education, she highly recommends the program. “If you’re passionate about it, this is the way to go. On its own it is a great way to start your professional career as a teacher, but if you want to build upon it and pursue your education, that’s another opportunity. It can open a lot of possibilities for you.” 

  Advance your early childhood education career with Ohio State Online

The online Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Development and Education at Ohio State provides a flexible, high-quality education that prepares students for meaningful careers in pre-school, daycare, and other early childhood education settings. Whether you’re looking to enter the ECE field or use this as a steppingstone to further your studies, this program can help you achieve your goals. 

Ready to take the next step? Contact an Enrollment Advisor for more information about how Ohio State Online can help you launch your career in early childhood education.   

How Ohio State’s online Master of Arts in Art Education is transforming art teachers’ careers

If you’re an art teacher, community educator, or museum professional looking to deepen your expertise and make a lasting impact, the online Master of Arts in Art Education (MAAE) at The Ohio State University offers a flexible and enriching pathway to advance your art education career. Hear from two online students, Stephanie Shieltz-Lowder and Ashley Austerman, as they share how this online art education degree is shaping their professional development. 

Why these art teachers chose Ohio State’s online art education degree 

A program designed for diverse art educators

Stephanie, an art teacher at Ansonia Local Schools, and Ashley, an art teacher at Mississinawa Valley Schools district in western Ohio, have always aspired to further their education. As members of the Greenville Mural Committee, a group dedicated to enriching downtown Greenville, OH with vibrant public art murals, they understand the power of community-driven art and wanted a graduate program that would enhance their ability to lead and advocate for the arts. 

“I think every class has a level of flexibility. Every professor I’ve had has done a very good job of making our coursework fit our environment,” says Stephanie. “Not everybody that’s in the program is an art teacher. We have people that work in museums and other types of settings. I really like that every assignment we’ve gotten has lent itself to those differences.” 

Gaining new skills and professional development as art teachers

One of the most impactful aspects of the online Master of Arts in Art Education program is the opportunity to apply research and coursework directly to your environment. Stephanie shares, “I have a specialization in ceramics, and I’m planning on using my experience from my research class to figure out what these kids need and how I can make them successful.”  

Ashley shares her perspective, “I brought in an artist from the Ohio Arts Council and I was able to develop a whole new photography program. That has been great for me as a teacher because I’ve been able to gain new skills and knowledge.” She also emphasizes the importance of learning advocacy skills, “I’m taking an advocacy course right now, and I think that’s really important as an art educator to be able to put into words why it’s important for students to have arts as an option.”  

A community of creative thinkers and educators

Beyond coursework, the Master of Arts in Art Education fosters collaboration and connection. “’I’ve also built connections with other people in the program,” says Ashley, “This program has allowed me to really think about what I appreciate as an artist and an art teacher.”   

Stephanie adds, “Hearing about other people’s experiences—whether it be through the articles we’re reading, the videos we watch, or talking to our classmates through discussion boards—gives me a lot of ideas for what I can try in my own classroom. 

Take the next step in your art teacher career

The online Master of Arts in Art Education at The Ohio State University empowers art teachers, museum professionals, and creative practitioners to deepen their knowledge, expand their skill set, and advocate for the importance of art in education. Whether you’re looking to develop new curricula, integrate innovative teaching strategies, or lead community art initiatives, this program provides the foundation you need to inspire the next generation of artists. 

Ready to elevate your career as an art teacher? Learn more about Ohio State’s online Master of Arts in Art Education and contact an Enrollment Advisor today! 

Why Olympic athlete Emma Maltais chose to earn her Master’s in Bioethics online

Emma Maltais, a standout athlete and The Ohio State University alumna, has not only shone on the ice but also in the classroom. Recruited to Ohio State’s women’s ice hockey team as a high school freshman, she later returned to pursue a master’s in bioethics online, adding to her already impressive list of achievements. 

We spoke with Emma about her journey and how the flexibility of the Ohio State Online Master’s in Bioethics program supports her passion for learning and her career goals. 

Why pursue a Master’s in Bioethics online at Ohio State?

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Services at Ohio State, Maltais took a break from academia to compete in the Beijing Olympics, where she helped Canada secure a gold medal. Later, as an athlete on the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s (PWHL) Toronto team, Maltais sought a graduate degree that would fit her demanding training schedule. Ohio State’s online Master of Arts in Bioethics offered the flexibility and academic rigor she needed to advance her career goals to ultimately become a physical therapist. 

“The online piece helped with simplicity for me,” Maltais said, “I was traveling a lot, and I had a lot of tournaments and training camps. I don’t think I could have done it without it being available online.”  

Learning bioethics online: Emma’s experience

In Ohio State’s master’s in bioethics online program, Maltais studied essential topics such as biomedical research ethics, bioethics law, and public policy. One of her favorite courses included pediatric ethics, where she learned about the challenges of addressing illnesses in children who are not yet of age to make decisions, while also exploring paternal beliefs’ influence on their care. Another highlight was the collaborative case studies that connected students remotely to discuss and analyze bioethical dilemmas. 

“We had weekly case studies a group of us did online together,” Maltais said, “We would moderate a case and break down the different bioethical concepts. Sometimes it’s hard to collaborate in person, but on Zoom when we dedicated an hour, it was really easy.”  

Gaining new perspectives through bioethics

Maltais appreciated the support from her instructors and peers in the online bioethics program. The degree strengthened her critical thinking skills, teaching her to evaluate ethical considerations from multiple perspectives. While she initially pursued bioethics to prepare for a career in physical therapy, Maltais saw its relevance across many fields, including sports.  

Her favorite project during the online bioethics master’s program was her thesis, which focused on the ethical aspects of women athletes returning to play in sports after a break, due to injury, health issues, or other life circumstances.   

“It was a topic that was very applicable to my interest because it was in sports and I got to interview some of my friends who went through ethical situations,” Maltais said, “When applying those bioethical concepts to even something as simple as returning to play in sports, I got to see how important this study really was.”  

How an online Master’s in Bioethics boosted Emma’s career

Maltais expressed that when applying to physical therapy schools, her degree in bioethics was a central talking point on her resume. She shared that her online experience at Ohio State has helped her to be even more confident to pursue another dream of hers, which is to become a hockey team captain.  

With the multifaceted nature of bioethics, there is a wealth of career opportunities to explore. Relevant fields for bioethics careers include medicine, veterinary medicine, social work, policymaking, dentistry and more. Whether pursuing a health care career or another field, Maltais touched on the importance of bioethics. 

“It’s [bioethics] such a critical topic nowadays and it is relevant in every single issue. With how polarizing some arguments are, having the capability to talk through it, and to analyze what’s right or wrong in certain situations is key for everybody to understand.”  

Explore Ohio State’s online Master of Arts in Bioethics

Ohio State’s online Master’s in Bioethics program, part of the College of Medicine, offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to studying ethics in health care, biomedical research, law, and beyond. This program is available entirely online without any residency requirements. Students learn from esteemed Ohio State faculty how to take an innovative approach to addressing ethical questions and challenges in medicine, health care, biomedical research and other fields.  

Ready to take your next career step in bioethics? Request more information  about this online program today.  

What Are the Benefits of an Online Certificate Program?

What is an online certificate program?

Online certificate programs are college-level programs that offer students the opportunity to:

  • Study a focused topic in a shorter time frame than earning a degree
  • Earn an affordable higher education experience to add to their resume
  • Maintain their edge in the job market
  • Schedule flexible courses around their lives
  • Attend classes from anywhere​

There are two main types of online certificate programs offered at Ohio State: stand-alone and embedded certificates. Stand-alone programs do not require a student to be enrolled in a full undergraduate or graduate degree program at Ohio State to be able to receive an Academic Certificate upon completion.

Ohio State’s online certificate programs both at the undergraduate and graduate levels are a great way for students to gain knowledge in a chosen field of employment, learn about a specific topic in order to supplement their current degree program, earn credit or continuing education units for workforce development, and prepare for professional certification exams or licensure.

We are dedicated to helping you choose the right decision for your future, so reach out to us with any questions you may have.

How long does a certificate take to complete?

On average, Ohio State’s online certificates are 12 to 20 credit hours in length. Most programs can be completed in one year or less. For example, the online Public Management Certificate from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs is 13 credits in length (four or five courses) and can be completed in one year.

“It is a good way to grow and develop,” says Robert Griffiths, Associate VP of Online Education at Ohio State. “Online certificates are flexible and are able to be scheduled around all of your life priorities and goals.”

Online certificate courses are often taught asynchronously, meaning students can complete course material according to their own schedules while still keeping up with course due dates.

If live video lectures are required, class can be attended anywhere from your breakroom at your workplace to your living room couch. The stress of finding the time and resources for transportation to and from class is nonexistent in an online learning environment.

How much does an online certificate cost?

Online certificate programs have lower tuition compared to full degree programs because they require fewer credit hours. Returning to the example of Ohio State’s Public Management certificate, we estimate that an Ohio student in the program will pay around $4,000 per semester. However, costs may vary depending on your specific program’s fees, your state of residence, and your time to completion.

Both students and employers can benefit from the lower cost and shorter time to completion of an online certificate program. Employers often look for ways to upskill employees and gravitate toward certificate programs because of these many benefits.

For some students, an online certificate program can be the first step toward pursuing a full degree. Ohio State offers students the opportunity to apply credits gained through online certificates toward full degree programs. Students who earn the Public Management Certificate, for example, may apply some credits toward the Master of Public Administration and Leadership.

Calculate the cost of an Ohio State online certificate

How do certificates lead to career growth?

Online certificate programs offer a convenient way for students to further their education and “maintain your edge in the marketplace” without having to set aside years for a full degree, says Griffiths.

Courses can be completed while students work full time, allowing them to immediately apply their knowledge gained from their online certificate programs to their careers.

“We understand that people are no longer in lifelong careers,” says Griffiths. “There is too much change in the world right now to think that you can maintain your current level of education and still remain relevant and compete in the marketplace.”

Whether you are looking to move up in your career, seeking a career change, or looking to learn a new skill, an online certificate program provides the tools necessary to take that leap.

Ready to learn more? Explore Ohio State’s online certificate program offerings.