Howard Payne University’s School of Education and Fine Arts prepares students to develop their talents, pursue meaningful careers, and serve others through a Christ-centered education. With programs in Art, Communication, Education, Kinesiology, Music, and Theatre, students gain the knowledge, practical experience, and personal development needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
The School of Education and Fine Arts offers a variety of academic programs that combine classroom learning with creative expression, professional preparation, and hands-on experiences. Students have opportunities to develop their abilities in teaching, artistic performance, communication, physical education, and other specialized fields while learning from experienced faculty. HPU has a strong tradition of preparing educators to serve as Christian role models in public and private schools, while graduates in the fine arts have pursued successful careers in music, communication, theatre, and related professions. Through academic excellence, practical learning, and a supportive Christian environment, the school encourages students to discover their strengths, develop their God-given abilities, and prepare for lives of professional achievement and meaningful service.
Howard Payne University’s School of Education and Fine Arts brings together six departments dedicated to developing students academically, creatively, and professionally. Through programs in Art, Communication, Education, Kinesiology, Music, and Theatre, students explore their interests while gaining the skills and experiences needed for careers in education, the arts, communication, and other professional fields.
The school emphasizes practical learning, creative development, and personal growth within a Christian academic community. Students are encouraged to apply their knowledge through classroom experiences, artistic productions, performances, and other professional activities that strengthen their abilities and prepare them for future opportunities. With a commitment to academic excellence and Christian service, the School of Education and Fine Arts helps students transform their interests and talents into meaningful careers while making positive contributions to their communities.
Rooted in Howard Payne University’s Christ-centered mission, the School of Education and Fine Arts encourages students to develop their God-given talents while demonstrating faith, integrity, creativity, and a commitment to serving others. Through education, artistic expression, communication, and leadership, students are challenged to use their knowledge and abilities to inspire others, strengthen communities, and make a positive difference in the world.
The school seeks to prepare graduates who combine professional excellence with Christian character and a strong sense of purpose. Whether teaching in classrooms, performing on stage, creating art, or serving in other professional fields, students are encouraged to lead by example, approach their work with compassion and responsibility, and reflect Christ through their actions. By connecting academic preparation with faith and service, HPU equips students to pursue meaningful careers while making lasting contributions to the lives of others.
To learn more about the values that guide the Howard Payne University community, explore our Core Values.
Students applying for admission to the School of Music and Fine Arts may also choose to apply for admission to the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy. Providing an innovative approach to the academic program, the Academy enables students to combine their specialized major with coursework grounded in an understanding of the American free enterprise system.
Consult your academic advisor and/or the HPU Catalog for specific degree requirements.
Minors in art will learn to produce solutions to contemporary visual problems employing the disciplines of art history, art production, aesthetics and art criticism. Students will learn to appreciate the contribution of the visual arts world culture and enable the graduate to go into the world equipped to think, create, and act as Christians within the discipline of art.
Those studying communication will learn to think critically, communicate effectively and develop constructive abilities through print, broadcast and verbal and nonverbal means of communication.
The communication studies curriculum provides a liberal arts approach to the study of human communication and strives to equip individuals to become more proficient communicators. It also assists in training those who want to teach speech in public education.
Students learn from faculty who have professional experience in public schools and model research-based teaching practices in the classroom. Through partnerships with local school districts and area educators, students participate in hands-on, field-based experiences that connect their coursework with authentic classroom environments. Small class sizes allow professors to know and mentor students personally as they develop the knowledge, teaching strategies, leadership skills, and professional standards required of Texas educators. HPU’s Educator Preparation Program is accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and is committed to equipping future teachers to meet the needs of diverse 21st-century learners while becoming innovative leaders who care deeply about both their students and the subjects they teach.
The mission of the Department of Kinesiology is to provide and promote a Christ-centered approach to the field of human movement through study, practice, and service.
The Department of Music seeks to prepare students for careers in the field of music. Performance is strongly emphasized in the department, and students have a wide variety of opportunities to perform both in ensembles and as soloists. The choral and instrumental fields have extensive ensemble offerings, including Concert Choir, University Singers, Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Heritage Singers, and Winds of Triumph, in addition to several small ensembles.
Howard Payne University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (or NASM).
The Department of Theatre encourages critical thinking, creative endeavor and the development of the multiple crafts of theatre through experiences explored in rehearsal, performance and in the classroom.
The theatre program introduces the student to the history, literature and production/performance philosophies, styles and techniques of theatre from the ancient Greeks to the present. Students receive a balance of theory and opportunities for performance/production work through an annual series of main-stage productions. This prepares students for careers in teaching, further study in graduate school or careers in theatre or allied fields.
At Howard Payne University, learning and creativity extend beyond the classroom through activities, camps, and community experiences. The School of Education and Fine Arts offers opportunities such as:
Program Insights
Art Director
Communication & Marketing Agencies
Education
Athletic Training
Worship Ministry
Theatre Director
Teaching Physical
Education & Coaching
At Howard Payne University, learning and creativity extend beyond the classroom through activities, camps, and community experiences. The School of Education and Fine Arts offers opportunities such as the Pre-College Music and Art Program, Summer and Young Scholars programs, and Band Leadership Camp. These experiences bring students and the community together through artistic expression, educational enrichment, and leadership development, reflecting HPU’s commitment to creativity, service, and lifelong learning.
Alumni Testimonial
“The education program helped prepare me for the classroom by giving us hands on experience that I’ve been able to apply in my classroom now. I was prepared
academically, socially, and professionally to step into my role as a teacher feeling confident and capable in my abilities.”
Parker Anderson ’22
Scholarships
95% of HPU students receive financial aid.
We’re passionate about making your college experience financially accessible. Our dedicated Financial Aid team will work diligently with you to explore every available opportunity and help make your HPU education affordable.
Contact
Dean, School of Education and Fine Arts
Professor of Education
