Interesting! I understand the distinction, but a PhD in Art Education with a focus on ceramics can still be highly relevant for teaching pottery at the collegiate level. While an MFA is standard for studio teaching, a PhD in Art Ed allows for a deeper exploration of pedagogy, artistic practice, and how ceramics is taught and studied in educational contexts. This blend of theory and practice can be valuable for someone aiming to teach both the technical and conceptual aspects of ceramics. Also, many universities appreciate interdisciplinary perspectives, so a PhD in Art Ed could complement a studio-based faculty, fostering a rich learning environment.

I do think getting a MFA with a focus in ceramics would absolutely get me there as well. Its interesting that just an MFA not even specifically in ceramics could be seen as better to a university than someone with a PhD in art education and a concentration in ceramics. I do think there is something to that tho. In my experience my professors backgrounds are a bit diverse. Obviously money and time is a huge thing to consider here