Master of Arts Degree in Arts Therapy

Creative expression, the basis of arts therapy, can have significant impact on the healing process. Through the arts, creative therapists work and help people with trauma, addictions and psychological or emotional issues in mental health environments, prisons and the wider community. Whitecliffe’s Master of Arts in Arts Therapy (MAAT) and Master of Arts in Arts Therapy (Clinical) degree programmes develop the theoretical knowledge and professional skills required within this field.

The two year Master of Arts in Arts Therapy (MAAT) offers two approaches to arts therapy. The first, arts access or art as therapy, follows the philosophy that art is universally beneficial. Artists offer their experience and skills to people who would not otherwise access the arts. The second, art in therapy or art psychotherapy, involves using art within psychotherapy as a powerful mode of expression and means of healing.

Study is conducted primarily online so it is essential for you to have internet access. Seminars include industry guest speakers, tutorials and experiential workshops. The programme also includes locally-based case studies, supervised client contact and written research projects. The first three semesters consist of six compulsory courses while the fourth semester involves self-directed research electives.

The Master of Arts in Arts Therapy (Clinical) degree involves a third clinical year that extends and deepens your knowledge and skills in the principal subjects of creative arts and psychotherapy and can be entered following successful completion of the requirements for the two-year programme. Completion of this year leads to a Master of Arts in Arts Therapy (Clinical) degree and provides a pathway to professional registration as an arts therapist.

This clinical year involves a supervised placement as a trainee arts therapist, as well as intensive training on campus. The year has three components with associated assignments; student placement, supervision and participation in two intensive week-long seminars and two intensive three-day seminars during the year.