Art Therapy

Take a journey toward advanced studies in therapeutic art practice and professional pathways that infuse the creative process into mental health and human services with a Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy in the Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University. As a master's degree is required in the professional field of art therapy, the program rigorously prepares students to pursue graduate-level studies in art therapy as well as art therapy-related jobs.

This 120-credit hour Art Therapy BA program emphasizes intersectional and transdisciplinary study with opportunities for self-exploration and unique fieldwork opportunities, enabling students to develop a broad range of skills needed to succeed in careers that involve therapeutic art. Students learn communication and collaboration, creative design and planning, critical observation and research, and self-awareness and cultural responsiveness–skills that can be applied in many work settings and master's-level study in a variety of fields. 

Students examine the important role of art making in promoting resilience in individuals, families and communities, and explore the role that art plays in addressing issues of inequality and injustice. They learn about the history, theories, philosophies and practices of art therapy, and engage in fieldwork placements that amplify coursework, build their confidence to work with people and demonstrate how therapeutic art helps others. Art therapy resources for those with diverse communicative, educational, emotional, physical and social needs are studied as well. 

Students leave our program with skills, knowledge and self-awareness to enter graduate art therapy programs or the workplace, depending on their career goals.
 
The Therapeutic Art Club of Temple University brings together students interested in art therapy for discussions, art making, guest speakers and other events, including self-care nights and mental health awareness workshops. Club programming fosters a close-knit student community and supportive learning environment through therapeutic artistic activities, examination of the goals and achievements of the art therapy field, and applications of therapeutic art practice. 

Tyler career coaches specialize in the types of jobs available in the arts and built environment, mentoring students on everything from cover letters to interviews to career advice.  

Temple's Career Center is another resource that empowers students to find pathways to future success. The Career Center offers comprehensive career development services, from résumés and interviews to finding internships and jobs. 

1. Make an application plan.

If you’re a first-year applicant, you’ll first want to pick a deadline goal and decide if you’d like to apply Early Action (due Nov. 1) or Regular Decision (due Feb. 1).

2. Apply using the Common Application.

Temple exclusively uses the Common Application. When completing your application for Temple, be sure to indicate whether you’re applying Early Action or Regular Decision if you’re a first-year applicant. Even if you apply before or by the Early Action deadline, you still must indicate Early Action on your application to ensure you will receive an admissions decision early. Transfer applicants do not need to select a deadline preference.

There’s an application fee of $55, which you will submit at the same time as the Common Application unless you qualify for a waiver.