Art Therapy

Art therapy uses the creative process in artistic self-expression to enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages.

In Emmanuel College's art therapy program, you will develop the artistic and evaluative skills that can help people resolve problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress and increase self-esteem and self-awareness. Our Boston location gives students access to professionals in the field and unmatched internship opportunities at such institutions as Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, just to name a few.

Major Requirements

View the 2022-2023 Academic Catalog to find course titles, numbers and descriptions.

Requirements for Pre-Professional Program in Art Therapy:

Studio Art:

  • ART1401 Drawing I (AI-A) (VCI)
  • ART1407 Visual Language for Design and Communications (AI-A) (VCI)
  • ART2403 Design and Composition
  • ART2433 3D Form Studies (AI-A)(VCI)
  • ART2451 Ceramics I (AI-A) (VCI)
  • ART3101 Painting 

Art Therapy:

  • ART2301 Introduction to Art Therapy
  • ART3302 Principles of Art Therapy

Psychology:

  • PSYCH1501 General Psychology (SA) (SS)
  • PSYCH1503 Lifespan Development 
  • PSYCH3601 Counseling Theories and Techniques
  • PSYCH3210 Child Psychopathology OR
  • PSYCH3212 Adult Psychopathology
  • One additional psychology class at the 2000 or 3000 level

    Capstone:

      • PSYCH4494/PSYCH4495 Applied Internship I and II

    Learning Goals & Outcomes

    Upon completion of the art therapy program, students will:

    • Acquire an awareness of the history of art therapy
    • Learn about the origins of art therapy, including its founders and current trends and developments in the field
    • Gain introductory skills in treatment planning and assessment by increasing familiarity with the tools and techniques of art therapy
    • Begin to formulate an identity as an art therapist and learn the roles played in the field through classroom discussions, projects and practicum placements

    Teacher Licensure in Visual Art

    Students who wish to pursue an art education major must major in studio art and minor in education. Two pre-practica and a teaching practicum are required. Students are required to have an advisor in both the art department and the education department.

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