By BCD Staff
July 2018
Here you will find the list of the best schools offering undergraduate degrees in art therapy.
Are you interested in combining your love of art and your interest in psychology into a career in art therapy? Art therapy degrees combine the practice of art and the study of psychology into a discipline that allows clinicians to engage with clients to enhance mental, emotional, and physical health and healing. To learn more about the field of art therapy visit the American Art Therapy Association's website.
Graduates can use their bachelor's degree in art therapy to pursue entry-level jobs providing direct services to children, individuals, and families such as working in summer camps, residential treatment centers, nursing homes, homeless shelters, hospice care, social service agencies, prisons, and even hospitals. Art Therapy has been shown to promote healing among diverse populations suffering from a range of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Many graduates also go on to pursue careers as artists and art teachers.
Additionally, earning a bachelor's degree in art therapy will put you in a position to be competitive for graduate programs in art therapy. Graduates will also be well prepared to pursue graduate studies in related fields such as mental health counseling, and counseling psychology. In order to work professionally as a registered art therapist, you will need to have your Master's degree in Art Therapy from an accredited institution to meet state licensing requirements. See our list of The Best Master's Degrees in Art Therapy for an overview of accredited graduate degrees in art therapy.
Methodology: To develop this ranking, we used the Institute of Education Sciences' College Navigator to gather a list of schools that offered an art therapy program as a bachelor's degree. Data was gathered for the tuition of full-time undergraduate students along with the percent of first-time students receiving financial aid. Schools were then ranked on affordability.
#41 Arcadia University
Glenside, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Pre-Art Therapy
Arcadia University offers a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Pre-Art Therapy. Students can choose to complete the degree they are most interested in but know that the Bachelor of Fine Arts requires more credits for graduation than the Bachelor of Arts. In the Pre-Art Therapy major students will: develop studio art skills; complete coursework in the behavioral and social sciences; and complete the requirements for the American Art Therapy Association for graduate school entrance prerequisites.
Courses include: Introduction to Psychology; Adult Psychopathology; Developmental Psychology; Introduction to Inclusive Education; Adolescence; Introduction to Art Therapy; Intermediate Art therapy; Art Therapy: Applications and Techniques; Internship in Art Therapy; Introductory Sociology; and Cultural Anthropology.
- Cost: $ 42,330.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 93%
#40 Emmanuel College
Boston, MA
Pre-Professional Program in Art Therapy
An Art Therapy major is offered at Emmanuel College for undergraduate students. This Art Therapy program offers students the opportunity to learn to integrate the artistic process into the helping relationship to better understand, evaluate, problem solve, and promote overall healing for individuals struggling with a variety of life challenges. Located in Boston, Emmanuel College is able to offer students a variety of internship placements at top-rated institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Courses include: Basic Drawing; Visual Language for Design and Communications; Printing; Form Studies; Ceramics; Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy Practicum; General Psychology; Counseling Theories and Techniques; Child Psychology; Adulthood and Aging; and Adolescent Development.
- Cost: $ 38,844.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 90%
#39 Cedar Crest College
Allentown, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Cedar Crest College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. This studio-based Art Therapy program supports students in strengthening their skills in a studio concentration such as Drawing; Painting; Sculpture; Printmaking; Printmaking; and Book Arts. Students will learn directly from faculty who are registered and board-certified art therapists and practicing studio artists. The coursework is designed to meet guidelines of the American Art Therapy Association. Students will gain valuable hands-on learning experience through practicum experiences as art mentors at a senior living community and the Boys and Girls Club of Allentown.
Unique Feature: Cedar Crest Art Therapy undergraduate students can move straight into the Master's in Art Therapy Program at Cedar Crest College.
- Cost: $ 38,092.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 73%
#38 Anna Maria College
Paxton, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy is offered through the Department of Art and Design at Anna Maria College. Students who complete the program will have advanced skills in one or more art disciplines as well as foundational knowledge of psychology, sociology, and cultural anthropology. The program emphasizes a commitment to training students to understand how individuals and societies are impacted and influenced by ethnic and multicultural issues. Graduates will be prepared to pursue focused graduate study in providing art therapy to diverse populations.
Curriculum includes: Art Courses; Psychology Courses; Human Services Courses; Art Therapy Courses (with experiential and didactic components): Theory and Methods; Two Art Therapy Internships; and Two Senior Capstone Courses.
- Cost: $ 37,130.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 86%
#37 LIU Post
Brookville, NY
Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy
LIU Post offers a Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy. The program works to provide students with the foundational skills to build on the students creative skills to provide therapeutic services in healthcare environments. Students will learn the foundations of psychological theory and the visual arts in preparation for graduate study in clinical art therapy to be followed by licensure for professional practice as an art therapist. When taking a break from studying, students will enjoy being just a short train ride from New York City and minutes from Long Island Beaches.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy Theories for the Handicapped; Art Therapy Workshop: Clinical Methods; Survey in Creative Arts Therapies; Art Therapy Research Seminar; Advanced Photography; Printmaking; Pottery and Ceramic Sculpture; Life Drawing; Watercolor; General Psychology; Principles of Psychology; Developmental Psychology: Childhood; Developmental Psychology: Adolescence; and Abnormal Psychology.
- Cost: $ 36,978.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 46%
#36 The College of New Rochelle
New Rochelle, NY
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Therapy
Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy
The School of Arts and Sciences at The College of New Rochelle offers an undergraduate Art Therapy Program. Students can choose between a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Therapy or a Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy. Students will have intensive training on how to use art to promote and support the physical, mental and emotional healing of children and adults in diverse settings (schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers etc.). Students interested in the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree will submit a portfolio for admission to the program. Students choosing to complete the Bachelor of Science degree are encouraged to submit a portfolio for feedback as well as to apply for an art scholarship.
Courses include: General Psychology; Psychology of Personality; Developmental Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; Introduction to Dance Movement; Introduction to Dance Therapy; Design Foundation; Fundamentals of Drawing; Figure Drawing; Fundamentals of Painting; Fundamentals of Sculpture; Orientation to Art Therapy; Theory and Techniques of Art Therapy; and Internship.
- Cost: $ 36,618.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 88%
#35 Springfield College
Springfield, MA
Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy is available at Springfield College. The curriculum is comprehensive and offers a number of unique electives for students to select from based on their individual area of interest and professional aspirations. Students in the program have the opportunity to work with and observe artists, art therapists, and professionals in the field. The program values providing students opportunities to work directly in the community for both the students' skill development and the contribution to the community. Graduates will be prepared to successfully apply to master's level programs in art therapy.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Introduction to Psychology; Art Therapy with Special Needs Populations; Pre-Practicum in Art Therapy and Art Education; Multicultural Issues in Art Therapy; Art Therapy Seminar; Studio in Painting; Studio in Ceramics; Human Development; Abnormal Psychology; Psychology of Art and Artists; Integrating Arts in the Classroom; Art in the Community; Art Therapy and the Elderly Client; and Dance and Somatic Movement Therapy.
- Cost: $ 36,535.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 94%
#34 Mercyhurst University
St, Erie, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Mercyhurst University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. Students will complete coursework, research, and service learning designed to teach how to use art to reach goals and solve problems. Art will be explored as a tool for healing and self-reflection. Graduates will be prepared to pursue graduate school and/or to enter the human service field and provide direct services to diverse populations. The Art Department is able to offer scholarships ranging from $2,500-$10,000 to qualified students!
Courses include: Drawing; Art Therapy; Painting; Ceramics; Art History; Introduction to Psychology; Child Psychology; Personality; Human Growth and development; Abnormal Psychology; Psychology of Exceptional Children; Introduction to Sociology; or Social Psychology.
- Cost: $ 36,320.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 96%
#33 Seton Hill University
Greensburg, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy is available at Seton Hill University, a Catholic Liberal Arts University. The Art Therapy program emphasizes a focus on how to use art and creative expression to promote change and growth in individuals and to make a difference in the world. This program will support students in preparing for graduate school in art therapy and/or in navigating different career opportunities in community arts.
Courses include: History of Western Art; Drawing; Figure Drawing; 2-D Design; 3-D Design; Clay; Painting; Professional Practice for Visual Arts; Introduction to Visual Art Therapy; Arts for Community Change; Art with Diverse Groups; Introductory Psychology; Infancy, Childhood, Adolescence and Lab; Adult Development; Introduction to Counseling; Abnormal Psychology; and Personality Theory.
- Cost: $ 34,660.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 77%
#32 Capital University
Columbus, OH
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts with a major in Art Therapy is offered at Capital University. Students will complete four years of study in areas including studio art, psychology, and art therapy. Capital University works to provide students with diverse learning opportunities by providing a variety of lectures, workshops and seminars, and the chance to engage in internships in professional settings. Students in the program can select from majors or minors in varying areas in a Clinical Track or a Studio Track depending on their individual and professional goals.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Assessment in Art Therapy; Art Therapy Techniques and Methods; Clinical Applications in Art Therapy; Art Therapy Portfolio; Imagery and Metaphor; Foundations in Studio Art; Drawing; and Art Therapy Senior Project.
- Cost: $ 34,600.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 88%
#31 Caldwell University
Caldwell, NJ
Bachelor of Arts in Art & Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Caldwell University offers a double major with an Art Therapy Concentration with the Bachelor of Arts in Art and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Students will complete coursework through both the Art and Psychology Departments with focused coursework in Art Therapy. Caldwell University offers a Catholic liberal arts education with an emphasis on supporting students in strengthening critical thinking skills, appreciating diverse cultures, and community service.
Courses include: Drawing; Design; Color Theory; General Psychology; Sculpture; Painting; World Art; Introduction to Art Therapy; Psychology of Personality; Adolescent Psychology; Psychopathology; Child Psychology; Experimental Psychology; Introduction to Catholic Theology; Art Therapy Methods; and Art Therapy in Practice.
- Cost: $ 33,950.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 80%
#30 Marywood University
Scranton, PA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy is offered at Marywood University. Students who plan to pursue a master's degree in Art Therapy will be excited to learn that at Marywood you can complete both a bachelor's and a master's degree in Art Therapy in only five years. The program is designed for students who are interested in having a career focused on both making art and on providing direct services to others. The undergraduate curriculum focuses on the pre-professional level by building a foundation in studio skills and the behavioral sciences, while the master's level program emphasizes training to prepare graduates for professional practice as an art therapist.
Courses include: Basic Drawing; Two-Dimensional Design and Color; Three-Dimensional Design; Basic Ceramics; Sculpture; Introduction to Arts and Health; Approaches in Art Therapy; General Psychology; Developmental Psychology; and Abnormal Psychology.
- Cost: $ 33,940.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 92%
#29 Millikin University
Decatur, IL
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Therapy
Millikin University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Therapy. Students will complete coursework in art and psychology. Students will also complete practical internship experiences enabling graduates of the program to pursue entry-level positions in a variety of human services positions in settings such as psychiatric institutions, hospitals, correctional facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Graduates will also be prepared to apply to master's level art therapy programs if they wish to pursue a career as a professional and certified art therapist. All students will put together a portfolio for review prior to graduation that they can use for application to graduate school in the field of their choice.
Courses include: Drawing; 2D Design; Introduction to Psychology; Art History; Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy Internship; Art Therapy Material and Methods; Studio; Psychopathology; Creative Arts and Movement; International Cultures/Structures; Personality Theory; Art Therapy Internship; Lifespan; and Art Therapy Internship.
- Cost: $ 33,066.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 93%
#28 Christian Brothers University
Memphis, TN
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts with a concentration in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts with a concentration in Art Therapy is offered at Christian Brothers University. Students will have the visual arts training for professional careers as artists, graphic designers, and art educators while also having exposure to the field of art therapy through the program's concentration. Art Therapy concentration courses will provide students with training in areas such as conflict resolution, interpersonal skill development, and stress management. Diverse fieldwork opportunities provide students with hands-on learning in a variety of settings to support the student in getting a sense of their individual areas of interest. Graduates will be prepared to pursue a career focused on the arts and/or to pursue graduate school in art therapy or a related field.
Courses include: Art Appreciation; Design; Photoshop Essentials; Illustrator Essentials; Drawing; Introduction to Art Therapy; World Art History; Art of the Americas; Figure Drawing; Advanced Design: Mixed Media; Internship for Visual Arts; Introduction to Printmaking; Typography; Advanced Studio; and Special Studies in Art.
- Cost: $ 31,870.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 96%
#27 Mars Hill University
Mars Hill, NC
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Mars Hill University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy grounded in the Christian faith. Students will learn to work with visual arts to support the therapeutic process with diverse populations. Students will be supported in their personal and spiritual growth as they pursue their undergraduate degree at Mars Hill University. Students will have the opportunity to explore the types of art they may want to use as a professional art therapist. Graduates will be prepared for careers in helping professions or for graduate school in art therapy.
Courses include: Drawing; Painting; Ceramics; Printmaking; General Psychology; Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy Applications; Behavioral Science Statistics; Research Methods in Psychology; Child Psychology; Adolescent and Adult Development; Abnormal Behavior; and Foundations of Counseling and Psychotherapy.
- Cost: $ 31,804.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 98%
#26 Houston Baptist University
Houston, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Professional Art Therapy
The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Houston Baptist University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Professional Art Therapy. This program is designed and supported by a collaboration between the Department of Psychology and the Department of Visual Arts. 100% of classes at Houston Baptist University are taught by faculty rather than teaching assistants. Students will benefit from small class sizes with a 16:1 Student to faculty ratio. Qualified students can apply for scholarships and grants to offset the cost of their undergraduate education. Students interested in learning in a Christian environment while focusing on both academic and spiritual growth will find this program to be a good fit.
Courses include: Art Methods and Materials; Design; Color Theory; Drawing; History of Modern Art; Abnormal Psychology; Human Growth and Development; Psychology of Personality; Child Psychopathology; Theories of Counseling; Psychology of Learning; Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy with Children; Pre-Professional Art Therapy.
- Cost: $ 31,730.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 94%
#25 Bluffton University
Bluffton, OH
Pre-Art Therapy
Bluffton University offers a Pre-Art Therapy Major. Students who are interested in both art and psychology and the possibility of applying to graduate school and pursuing a career as an art therapist will find this program to be a good fit. Students will have the opportunity to engage in local internships to explore their personal and professional interests. Unique features of Bluffton University are the ability to offer students an intimate experience on-campus with only 800 students, and the connection with the Mennonite Faith.
Courses include: Introduction to Psychology; Drawing; Painting; Statistics; Developmental Psychology; Personality Psychology; Printmaking Course; Art History; Psychology of Learning and Cognition; Foundations for Teaching Visual Arts; Interviewing; Practicum; Independent Study in Art; Abnormal Psychology; and Portfolio Organization and Review.
- Cost: $ 31,672.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 81%
#24 Concordia University-Chicago
River Forest, IL
Pre-Art Therapy
Concordia University Chicago offers an Art Therapy program with a focus for undergraduate students in Pre-Art Therapy. Students in this program will complete coursework in art and psychology. Psychology coursework will have a focus on counseling-related courses. Because the program is located in Chicago, students will benefit from having access to major medical centers and social service agencies for volunteer and internship opportunities for practical skill development. Throughout their time in the program, students will engage in creating an art portfolio which will be useful for applying to graduate school.
Courses include: Two-Dimensional Basic Studio; Three-Dimensional Basic Studio; Drawing Studio; Professional Strategies for the Visual Artist; Painting; Digital Photography; Ceramics; Introduction to Art Therapy; General Psychology; Developmental Psychology Lifespan; Interpersonal Skills; Group Dynamics; Statistics; Abnormal Psychology; Theories of Personality; Psychology of Gender; and Cross-Cultural Psychology.
- Cost: $ 31,588.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 88%
#23 Union University
Jackson, TN
Pre-Professional Art Therapy
The Department of Art in the College of Arts and Sciences at Union University offers several undergraduate programs of study including the Pre-Professional Art Therapy program. The curriculum is designed for students to progress from in classroom study to service projects, trips, and events. Union University's Art Program works to integrate faith and art. Faculty members engage easily with students and focus on their own art with a personal on-campus studio space. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities to engage in their own artistic process.
Program Requirements Include: Major in Bachelor of Arts in Art (31 credits); Primary Emphasis Courses (12 credits); Secondary Emphasis from Studio (6 credits); and Psychology Requirements (24 credits).
- Cost: $ 31,510.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 80%
#22 Ursuline College
Pepper Pike, OH
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
The School of Arts and Sciences at Ursuline University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. Ursuline was one of the first Catholic women's colleges in the United States and the first in Ohio. Students at Ursuline have the opportunity to choose between graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy or to enter the bridge program. The bridge program sets students up for matriculation into the Master of Arts in Art therapy and Counseling Program. This efficient option will be a good fit for students who know they want to pursue a professional career as an art therapist.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Art Therapy Applications; Introduction to Fiber Art Therapy; Media and Methods; Imagery and Meaning; and Field Placement.
- Cost: $ 31,150.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 82%
#21 Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, NE
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy is offered at Concordia University- Nebraska. The program focuses on providing students with the foundational skills in both art and psychology to support the process of helping individuals improve their mental and physical health. Students will find that they are well prepared for graduate school in order to pursue careers in a variety of fields that emphasize healing. Students in the Art Therapy program at Concordia University will benefit from supportive relationships with their instructors with a 5 to 1 student to faculty ratio.
Courses include: Tools, Materials and Safe Process; Introduction to Psychology; Visual Studies; Drawing; Introduction to Statistics; Water-Based Media; Basic Digital Photography; Ceramics; Art History; Lifespan Development; Art Therapy; Painting; Sculpture; Introduction to Counseling; Personality Theory; Collage and Mixed Media; Abnormal Psychology; and Methods of Art Education.
- Cost: $ 31,000.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 81%
#20 Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Lipscomb University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. Students completing this undergraduate degree will take foundation courses during their first two years of study followed by advanced classes focused on their major. The Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy requires students to also complete a minor in Psychology. Lipscomb University emphasizes integrating Christian faith throughout their academic programs that include over 145 areas of study. Students in this program will benefit from small class sizes with a student-to-teacher ratio of 13-1.
Courses include: Foundation Studio; Conceptualization and Presentation; New Media Studio; Fundamentals of Printmaking; Fundamentals of Photography; Fundamentals of Ceramics; Fundamentals of Sculpture; Introduction to Psychology; Lifespan Development; Behavioral Statistics; Social Psychology; Personality Theories; Drugs and Behavior; and Abnormal Psychology.
- Cost: $ 30,932.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 77%
#19 West Virginia Wesleyan College
Buckhannon, WV
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy
The Art and Design Department at West Virginia Wesleyan College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy. The program emphasizes teaching students both professional and practical skills. Students will learn the skills sought after in multiple industries such as problem-solving and developing and maintaining working relationships. Graduates will find they are ready to enter the workforce in a range of disciplines and/or pursue a graduate degree in art therapy or a related field.
Unique Feature: Students in the Pre-Art Therapy program at West Virginia Wesleyan College will have the opportunity to select specialized psychology courses based on if they want to focus on working professionally as an art-therapist with children or with the elderly.
- Cost: $ 30,752.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 98%
#18 St. Thomas Aquinas College
Sparkill, NY
Art Therapy Program
St. Thomas Aquinas College offers an undergraduate degree in Art Therapy. This program focuses on teaching students the skills to meet the physical, emotional, and mental challenges that individuals across the lifespan may experience while helping people to understand feelings, reduce challenging symptoms, and increase overall well being. The program meets requirements outlined by the American Art Therapy Association for acceptance into a master's level art therapy program.
Unique Feature: Students in the Art Therapy Program at St. Thomas Aquinas College have had the opportunity to spend a week abroad in St. Petersburg, Russia where they used their therapeutic and art skills to work with children at an orphanage.
- Cost: $ 30,750.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 70%
#17 Mount Mary University
Milwaukee, WI
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Mount Mary University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. This pre-professional program focuses on training students in art and psychology with a focus on community building. Students are encouraged to be leaders in the classroom and to develop strong and supportive relationships with fellow students. The classroom environment is conducive to relationship building as students get to know themselves and each other through the art-based curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to engage in diverse field experiences in settings ranging from summer youth programs to elder care facilities and everything in between. Additionally, students who are interested in studying abroad have the opportunity to explore art around the world.
Courses include: Drawing; Ceramics; Painting; History of Art; Women in Art History; Gender, Race, and Class; Introduction to Conflict Transformation; Basic Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Behavioral Science Statistics; Psychopathology; Interpersonal Communication; Intercultural Communication; Introduction to Art Therapy; Responding to Life's Calling; Multicultural Arts; Service Learning; Art and Spirituality; Special Topics in Art Therapy; Creative Community Development; and Professional Development in Art Therapy.
- Cost: $ 29,510.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 93%
#16 University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, IN
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy
The School of Creative Arts at the University of Saint Francis offers a Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy. Students in the program will have the opportunity to take courses in art, psychology, sociology, and social work leading to a well-rounded education with a focus on art therapy. Students will gain valuable hands-on experience through internships and service projects. These internships and service projects will help students gain an understanding of the type of art therapy career they are interested in building. Graduates will be prepared to pursue graduate school in art therapy or a related field.
Concentrations are offered in areas including: ceramics; crafts; drawing; painting; photography; printmaking; sculpture; or a combination of areas.
- Cost: $ 29,430.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 89%
#15 Kansas Wesleyan University
Salina, KS
Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Art Therapy is offered at Kansas Wesleyan University. Students will have the opportunity to complete internships with local businesses and organizations. This pre-professional program prepares students to successfully apply to graduate school in Art Therapy. Students can also use this degree to explore other career opportunities before or during graduate study in Art Therapy in areas such as teaching, working in museums and galleries, publishing, and film and television.
Courses include: Foundation of Graphic Applications: Drawing; Ceramics; Sculpture; Arts and Culture; Theories of Counseling; Abnormal Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Introduction to Group Counseling; Principles of Counseling Practice; Introduction to Art Therapy; Professional Ethics of Psychology; and General Psychology.
- Cost: $ 28,980.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 95%
#14 Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, IL
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Trinity Christian College provides a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. Students who are interested in art and psychology while learning from a Christian perspective will find this program to be a good fit. Students in this program will benefit from the Colleges intimate and small class sizes while also having the benefits of a big city with downtown Chicago just 25 miles away! Graduates will have a strong understanding of how to therapeutically use creative outlets to support the growth and healing of children and adults across the lifespan.
Courses include: Art History: Art and World Religions; Intercultural Communication; World Poverty and Economic Development; Beginning Painting; Beginning Sculpture; Beginning Photography; Introduction to Psychology; Basic Research Skills; Lifespan Development; Creative Art Therapy; Psychopathology; Theories of Personality; Field Education; and Seminar in Professional Development.
- Cost: $ 28,675.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 86%
#13 Carlow University
Pittsburgh, PA
Bachelors of Arts in Art Therapy Preparation
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy Preparation is offered at Carlow University. Offered on the main Oakland Campus students will complete 51 credits of major requirements. Examples of courses include a class in the introduction to art/visual culture and a course in abnormal psychology. The program emphasizes a bio-psycho-social approach and designs coursework to integrate art and psychology to support students in learning to use art to understand and treat psychological disorders.
Unique feature: One faculty member, also practices as a child and family therapist providing therapeutic services to children and families with the integration of art therapy. She utilizes her clinical experience to make coursework relevant.
- Cost: $ 28,596.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 85%
#12 Edgewood College
Madison, WI
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Edgewood College offers an Art Therapy major. Students who complete the undergraduate Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy will be well prepared to use their skills in community programs (such as schools, hospitals, senior centers, and rehabilitation centers) and/or to apply to graduate school for a master's degree in Art Therapy. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, supporting students in developing strong teamwork skills, fostering individual creativity, and communication skills.
Unique features: Edgewood College's Art Therapy major has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for civic engagement.
- Cost: $ 28,500.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 83%
#11 University of Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Art Therapy is available at the University of Indianapolis. Students in the Pre-Art Therapy program will take art and psychology courses with a focus on learning to work creatively with individuals as part of rehabilitation teams. Students are encouraged to develop a personal art style as they work towards their undergraduate degree. Graduates will be prepared to apply to graduate school in the field of art therapy and work towards professional careers as art therapists in settings such as: hospitals; nursing homes; schools; shelters; and substance abuse recovery centers.
Courses include: Introduction to Creative Digital Practices; Beginning Drawing; Freshman Experience in Art; Fundamentals of Three Dimensional Design; Introduction to Art Therapy; Introduction to Psychology; Community Immersion in the Art; Ceramics; Digital Photography; Teaching Elementary School Art; Lifespan Development; Personality and Sociocultural Factors; Adult Development and Aging; Abnormal Psychology.
- Cost: $ 28,390.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 84%
#10 Alverno College
Milwaukee, WI
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Alverno College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. This undergraduate degree in Art Therapy trains students to use their natural artistic ability and interest in helping people to work directly with supporting children and adults from various backgrounds. Students will have valuable hands-on experience working with diverse populations in a range of field placements. In the students senior year they will have an intensive and focused 20 hour-a-week internship to strengthen skills and gain valuable professional experience.
Art Therapy Internship Placements Have Included: the Milwaukee Catholic Home; the Donna Lexa Arts Centers; Islands of Brilliance; the Milwaukee Center for Independence; the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center; Saint Marcus Lutheran School; and Alexian Village.
- Cost: $ 28,277.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 92%
#9 Marian University
Fond Du Lac, WI
Bachelor of Arts in Expressive and Therapeutic Arts
A Bachelor of Arts in Expressive and Therapeutic Arts is offered at Marian University. Students will take their love of art and their interest in psychology and merge it to support others in self-exploration and healing. Students in the program have the opportunity to choose from a variety of electives with diverse courses including printmaking; bookmaking; fiber arts: puppetry; contemporary culture; introduction to poetry; and world music. With a diverse set of courses to choose from graduates of the program will have the theory and knowledge to pursue graduate studies in art therapy, expressive arts, or a related field.
Courses include: Basic Drawing; Design; General Psychology; Human Development; Intercultural Communication; Women Artists Through History; Therapeutic Arts in Service-Learning; Program Design and Grant Writing; Techniques in Creative Process; General Psychology; Human Development; Abnormal Psychology; Intercultural Communication; and Interpersonal Communication.
- Cost: $ 27,400.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 85%
#8 Bethany College
Lindsborg, KS
Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Professional Art Therapy
Bethany College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Professional Art Therapy. Students in the program take courses in studio art and psychology and have the opportunity to focus in areas including; ceramics; drawing; painting; and sculpture. The Department of Art offers students the opportunity to network with nationally recognized arts in the central gallery as they develop their own unique style and focus.
Courses include: Basic Design; Introduction to Photography; Printmaking; Themes in Contemporary Art; General Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; Counseling; Techniques of Psychological Evaluation; Theories of Personality; Social Psychology; Human Sexuality; Behavior Modification; Introduction to Infants, Children, and Youth with Special Needs.
- Cost: $ 26,922.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 88%
#7 Lesley University
Cambridge, MA
Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy is available at Lesley University. This Art Therapy program emphasizes a commitment to supporting students in gaining and using a multicultural perspective in their professional practice of using art to help people grow and heal. Students will have the opportunity to complete internships working with children and adults in diverse settings under the supervision of program faculty. With coursework in human services; psychology and art, graduates of the program will be prepared to enter a Master's level program in Art Therapy and/or Expressive Art Therapies.
Courses include: Lifespan Development; Principles of Art Therapy; Abnormal Psychology; Research Methods in the Social Sciences; Art Therapy with Specific Populations; Studio-Based Art Therapy; History of Photography; Multicultural Photography; Drawing Intensive; Introduction to Painting; Introduction to Sculpture; Foundations and Systems in the Helping Professions; Concepts and Skills in Professional Practice; Introduction to Statistics; Cross-Cultural Psychology; Theories of Personality; Introduction to Counseling; and Social Policy.
- Cost: $ 26,675.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 58%
#6 Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion
Marion, IN
Pre-Art Therapy
Indiana Wesleyan University offers an undergraduate degree in Pre-Art Therapy. The degree combines Art and Psychology courses to prepare graduates to pursue a graduate degree in Art Therapy or a related field. Students will learn to apply art skills and counseling skills in a therapeutic setting. In this integrated program, students will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty in both the Fine Art Program and the Psychology Program.
Courses include: Drawing; Ceramics; Sculpture; Representational Painting; Abstract Painting; Modern Art; Art Enrichment; General Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Child Development; Adolescent Growth and Development; Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences; Psychology of Abnormal Behavior; Theories of Personality; Theories of Counseling; Techniques of Counseling; Introduction to Art Therapy; Learning and Motivation; Family Systems Therapy; and Cognitive-Behavioral Counseling.
- Cost: $ 25,980.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 78%
#5 Piedmont College
Demorest, GA
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
Piedmont College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy. Students in the program will develop artistic skills and a foundation in the theory of psychology. Students will learn to use art to work with and support diverse populations of individuals experiencing mental, developmental, emotional, cognitive, and/or physical challenges. Graduates of the program will be prepared to enter a graduate program in counseling.
Courses include: Drawing; Two Dimensional Design; Three Dimensional Design; Painting Studio Courses; Art History: Prehistory to Renaissance; Art History: Renaissance to Present; Art Criticism Senior Exhibition Capstone; Research Methods and Statistics; Human Growth and Development; Exceptional Child; Introduction to Counseling; Abnormal Psychology; and Internship in Human Services.
- Cost: $ 24,464.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 97%
#4 Finlandia University
Hancock, MI
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy is offered at Finlandia University. Coursework is designed to support students in learning how art and human psychology can be interconnected. Students who enjoy engaging in art and who value helping others will find this program to be a good fit. In addition, the general education program that all undergraduate students complete, the Art Therapy major focuses learning and skill development on areas including how the creative process can enhance and promote healing; lifespan development; visual art; and interpersonal counseling skills.
Courses include: Drawing Foundations; Color and Composition; Painting Fundamentals; Human Factors and Ergonomics; Introduction to Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; Lifespan Development: Children and Adolescents; Introduction to Counseling; History and Systems; Design and Culture; Topics in Psychology; Research Methods in Psychology; and Experimental Psychology.
- Cost: $ 22,758.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 99%
#3 Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, TN
Bachelor of Arts, Therapy Emphasis
Southern Adventist University offers a Bachelor of Arts with an Art Therapy Emphasis. The program is designed for students who plan to pursue a graduate program in art therapy, and students will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of work to support their application process to graduate school. Courses focus on integrating studio arts with the behavioral sciences. Students at Southern Adventist University will engage in coursework grounded with a Christian perspective.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Professional Practices; Art Appreciation; General Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Social Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; Introduction to Personality Theories; Fundamentals of Counseling; Introduction to Youth Ministry; Christian Ethics; Drugs and Society; Issues in Adolescence; Group Processes; Family Counseling; and Aging and Society.
- Cost: $ 21,550.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 80%
#2 Converse College
Spartanburg, SC
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy
A Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy is available at Converse College. The program focuses on giving art therapy students an overview of the profession and field of art therapy with focused study in behavioral sciences and the visual arts. Students will complete an art therapy internship in either a clinical or educational setting. Graduates will be well prepared to secure employment in a helping profession and/or pursue a graduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in art therapy or a related field. Converse College reports that 90% of their Art Therapy graduates have successfully secured placement in the graduate program of their choice.
Courses include: Introduction to the History of Western Art; Drawing; Painting; Ceramics; Survey of Art Therapy; Art Therapy Perspective: Understanding Children's Art; Art Therapy Methods; Art Therapy Internship; Abnormal Psychology; Theories of Personality; Human Growth and Development; and Counseling and Psychotherapy.
- Cost: $ 17,680.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 84%
#1 West Liberty University
West Liberty, WV
Bachelor of Science in Creative Arts Therapy
The College of Arts and Communication at West Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Creative Arts Therapy. The degree is designed to train students in the theory and practice of art and psychology in promoting physical, mental, and emotional health and healing. Students will learn how creative expression can support and enhance communication in a variety of settings with diverse populations. Coursework includes general studies, art studio courses, and coursework in psychology.
Courses include: Introduction to Art Therapy; Developmental and Comparative Stages in Art; Art Therapy Studio; Art Therapy Literature and Symbolism; Art Therapy Internship and Observation; Art Therapy Assessments and Techniques; Drawing; Design; Printmaking; Watercolor Painting; Ceramics; Art History; Personality Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; and Psychology of Adulthood and Old Age.
- Cost: $ 15,020.00
- Percent receiving financial aid: 71%