Are you artistic and creative? Have you always wondered how you could use your artistic talents as a lucrative career and help others at the same time? If you have a creative side and a passion for helping those in need, a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy might be the perfect degree for you.
Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy
The program for a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy typically takes 4 years to complete and is available on campus at a variety of colleges, universities, and art institutes. It is very rare to find an online Art Therapy Bachelor's Degree program since much of the art coursework needs to take place in a hands-on setting. Many people who pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy also have an interest in Psychology.
When pursing a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy you will basically learn how to combine the use of art mediums and psychology to counsel and provide help to individuals dealing with mental, emotional, developmental, or physical disorders. You will not only gain skills in studio art such as painting and drawing but will learn the foundations of psychology such as recognizing and treating different mental health issues.
Coursework
An Art Therapy Bachelor's Degree program is usually comprised of three different areas of coursework, art, psychology, and art therapy. You may also be required to take some general liberal arts courses which are part of any bachelor's degree program. Some of the most common courses might entail:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Sculpture
- Art Therapy Techniques
- Developmental Psychology
- Drawing
- Art with Diverse Groups
- Counseling
- Art History
- Creative Connections
Colleges and Universities
While a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy is not as readily available on line as it is in the form of a campus education, there are several reputable colleges and universities around the country that offer an Art Therapy Bachelor's Degree program. There are several that offer it in conjunction with a Master's Degree for those who want to be a licensed art therapist. Check out these colleges to find the one that is right for you:
- Capital University
- University of Indianapolis
- Harding University
- College of Santa Fe
- Mercyhurst College
- Long Island University
Finding a Career
There are a wide variety of career opportunities for graduates with a Bachelor's Degree in Art Therapy. You can work in numerous settings from schools to hospitals even prisons or private counseling centers. Some states will require you to complete a Master's Degree in Art Therapy before you can be an art therapist and have your own practice, but there are some opportunities to consider with a completed Art Therapy Bachelor's Degree.
- Art Therapist Assistant
- Art Teacher's Aide
- Child Welfare Specialist
- Mental Health Counselor
- School Art Therapist
- Activities Specialist
