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Art Pre-Art Therapy (B.A.)

Using Art to Make a Difference

In Ƶ’s Pre-Art Therapy Program, you will use your creative process to communicate, express yourself and grow. You will learn to combine art and psychology to make a difference in the world, by nurturing the creative expression of others. This preprofessional major prepares you for graduate study in art therapy or positions within community-based arts agencies and human service organizations.

Why Choose the Pre-Art Therapy Program at Ƶ University?

This liberal arts major is designed to prepare you in the basic areas of the fine arts and the behavioral and social sciences. As a Pre-Art Therapy major at Ƶ, you will:

  • Engage in introductory art therapy courses taught by board-certified art therapy faculty, in addition to studio art and psychology coursework.
  • Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities in our Arts Center.
  • Experience all of the benefits of our Apple Distinguished School, including an Apple MacBook Air for all full-time freshmen.
  • Complete (as a senior) a culminating fieldwork placement at a local human service or arts agency.

This pre-art therapy coursework is intended for students who plan to continue their education in a Master’s in Art Therapy Program, or who intend to obtain positions within the field of community-based arts and human services.

M.A. in Art Therapy with a Specialization in Counseling

Obtaining a master's degree is required to become a practicing art therapist. Ƶ offers an M.A. in Art Therapy with a Specialization in Counseling Program. This fully accredited graduate program provides you with the educational requirements needed to attain credentials as a nationally recognized Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and a Pennsylvania Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

Faculty Who Are Artists, Therapists & Educators

At Ƶ University, you will have the opportunity to work with experienced faculty in both the arts and psychology fields as you move through a variety of courses in both disciplines.

Nationally Recognized Career Services Center

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, therapy jobs are expected to continue increasing steadily, with an annual salary between $30,000 and $80,000. Students in this major who do not plan to go on to graduate school (or do not wish to do so right away) can explore a community arts focus, and learn to use the arts to address social concerns.

Ƶ's award-winning Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) will work with you, your professors and local, regional and national employers to prepare you with the career preparation skills, internship opportunities and placement services that you need - as a student and after you graduate. 

Streamlined Admission Process & Generous Aid Packages

At Ƶ University, we offer streamlined admissions requirements and a comprehensive aid program.

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Ready to Take Your Next Step Forward?

You can apply online for free any time. If you haven't been to visit us yet, please schedule a time to come up to the Hill. You just may see your future from here.
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Faculty

Pati Beachley

Professor of Art and Chair of Art & Design Dept.

Jeffrey Donato

Adjunct Instructor

Dana Elmendorf

Program Director, Graduate Art Therapy program

Brian Ferrell

Associate Professor of Art

Josias Figueirido

Assistant Professor of Art

Emily Franicola

Adjunct Faculty/ Gallery Director

Dani Moss

Associate Professor of Art Therapy

Mary Kay Neff

Associate Professor of Art, Graphic Design

Barry Reeger

Adjunct Faculty

Chad Sherman

Associate Professor of Art/Graphic Design