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.
The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
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Updated July 3, 2024
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Explore our ranking of the top Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy, Ranked by Affordability.
Are you interested in an art therapy career but worried about the cost? This guide ranks the most affordable undergraduate art therapy programs to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice. Learn what to expect from these programs, understand their costs, and explore potential career paths. Take the first step towards an art therapy career.
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Most Affordable Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
West Liberty University
West Liberty, WV - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,716
Out-of-state
$17,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,080
Out-of-state
$8,280
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
2,315
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Converse University
Spartanburg, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,500
Out-of-state
$19,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,488
Out-of-state
$7,488
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
1,440
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, TN - 4 years
- Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,320
Out-of-state
$22,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,880
Out-of-state
$11,880
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
2,719
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Finlandia University
Hancock, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,976
Out-of-state
$23,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
40%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
424
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Piedmont University
Demorest, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,120
Out-of-state
$28,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$10,800
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
1,843
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion
Marion, IN - 4 years
- Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,960
Out-of-state
$28,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,512
Out-of-state
$13,512
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
2,862
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,200
Out-of-state
$29,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
4,010
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Bethany Global University
Bloomington, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,638
Out-of-state
$15,638
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,000
Out-of-state
$8,000
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
328
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton
#9 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Marian University
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,600
Out-of-state
$36,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,737
Out-of-state
$20,737
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
3,928
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 The Best Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy Ranked by Affordability
Alverno College
Milwaukee, WI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
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.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,408
Out-of-state
$30,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
1,596
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Methodology: How We Rank Schools
At BestCounselingDegrees.net, we use data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. The most important metric in our rankings -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This ranking is from 2020. To learn more, consult our ranking methodology.
What to Expect from an Undergraduate Degree in Art Therapy
An undergraduate art therapy program gives students a strong foundation in art and psychology, providing graduates with the skills to help others through creative expression. Courses include art history, studio art, counseling, and human development.
These programs usually require about 120 credits and take four years to complete. The curriculum often includes hands-on experience through internships or practicum. This experience allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, typically under the supervision of an experienced art therapist.
How to Pay for an Undergraduate Degree in Art Therapy
Attending an in-state public school instead of a private school can save you significantly on tuition. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) notes that for the 2022-23 school year, in-state public school tuition for an undergraduate program averaged $9,750, and private school tuition averaged $35,248. Factors impacting tuition rates include the school's location, type of institution, and resources offered.
To manage these costs, students should explore aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Consider completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal aid. Also, apply for scholarships specifically designed for counseling and psychology students. For more tips on financial aid, visit Best Counseling Degrees Financial Aid Resources and Scholarships for Counseling and Psychology.
Careers with an Undergraduate Degree in Art Therapy
Art therapy graduates can pursue numerous career pathways. While many careers in art therapy require a master's degree, you can apply to many important roles with a bachelor’s. For example, you can work as an art therapy assistant, activity coordinator, or support staff in schools, hospitals, community centers, or rehab facilities. These positions focus on using creative activities to improve clients' overall well-being.
To become a licensed art therapist, you must earn a graduate degree. Advanced careers include becoming a licensed art therapist. You can also become a clinical counselor or a mental health therapist. To become an art therapist, you must get a master’s degree in art therapy from an accredited program. Then, you need supervised clinical experience. The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) provides guidelines and resources for those pursuing this path.
Continuing your education opens the door to specialized careers and higher-paying job opportunities. This additional training will help develop your skills and knowledge, making you more competitive in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions About an Undergraduate Degree in Art Therapy
How long does it take to become an art therapist?
Becoming an art therapist typically takes 6-7 years. You must first earn a four-year bachelor's degree, and then complete a two-three year master's program and a supervised clinical experience.
Are online undergraduate art therapy programs available?
Yes, some schools offer online undergraduate art therapy programs. These programs are flexible. They let students balance other commitments while pursuing their degree.
What are the benefits of art therapy?
Art therapy has many benefits. It can improve mental health, emotional expression, and self-awareness. It can also reduce stress and help manage anxiety, significantly boosting overall well-being.
Do you need to be a good artist to major in art therapy?
No, being a great artist isn't necessary to major in art therapy. The focus is on using art as a therapeutic tool rather than showcasing your artistic skills. Being creative and having the desire to help others is what is important for this career.
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