Programs > Programs in the College of Art, Media and Design
Contacts Description Program Requirements
Contacts
Michelle Dean \ mdean@uarts.edu \ 215-717-6236
Director
Description
While enrolled in any of the University’s undergraduate programs students may also declare a minor in Art Therapy. This gives students a chance to explore another career option while they are engaged in undergraduate study. As artists students bring an awareness that uniquely prepares them to be excellent therapists. Creating artwork fosters a nonverbal means of communication and self-expression, providing an imaginative vehicle through which to explore problems as well as strengths and potentials. Art therapy recognizes that the entire process, how it unfolds, the drawn form and content, as well as verbal associations, are all reflections of the individual.
Art therapists work with children and adults of all ages in a variety of settings. These include psychiatric and medical hospitals, schools, out-patient clinics, community programs, nursing homes and addiction treatment centers. Art therapy can also be utilized as a means of promoting creativity and wellness, and can therefore be viewed as a force for the prevention of illness and enhancement of recovery, vitality and health.
The minor provides excellent preparation for graduate school in art therapy or a related field. Students who do not wish to pursue the professional degree will nonetheless find that their study of art therapy is beneficial in other fields, particularly in psychology and education, and in their artistic and personal development.
Students who elect the art therapy program take four designated courses in psychology (count as Liberal Arts Electives) and five courses in art therapy (count as free electives), each of which meets overall requirements toward the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Academic Policy
Minors are governed by the minor policy published on the enrollment & registration page in the policies area of the catalogue.
Program Requirements (24 credits)
