Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media and practice as its primary form of engagement and communication. Studying a master's degree in art therapy allows students to explore the boundaries of psychology and creativity, learning practical skills which you’ll use to facilitate self-expression, emotional processing, and healing in your clients.
Admission onto a master’s degree in art therapy typically requires an undergraduate degree in art and design or other relevant subject, and a minimum of one year’s work experience in a caregiving environment gained before your application is submitted.
There are 20 art therapy master’s degree courses in the UK, and this is coupled with a growing demand for qualified professionals, with the recent uptake of art therapists working in both private and public healthcare. Demand is on the rise, and there is an expectation of 26,660 new jobs in the field by 2029.
What to expect
You’ll learn a foundational platform of psychological theory and knowledge, combined with the skills and practice needed to interpret artistic expressions, and apply therapeutic interventions to a diversity of clients and environments, encouraging communication and well-being.
Art therapy is a care service that is regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and upon completion of your qualification and training, you can join the 4,804 currently registered art therapists working professionally in the UK.
There are many specialisms which you can explore during the master’s course and in your professional work, including work with a particular client group, positions within management and policy, education, or research.