Art Therapy/Counseling
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Admissions Contact
Erin Pfeifer Are you an International Student? |
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Program Contact
Simone Alter-Muri |
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Curriculum and Delivery
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Start Dates and Duration
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Upcoming Art Therapy Events
Tips and Pointers for Applying to Graduate School |
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Heal Through Creative Expression.
In the MEd/MS in Art Therapy/Counseling at Springfield College, you will learn to become a professional who integrates art and psychology in clinical therapeutic practice. The program trains students through a course of study that blends theory, technique, and practice. With classes in art therapy, counseling, psychology, research, and studio art, you’ll develop your artistic and creative skills in large studio spaces, while also training to conduct research.
And, you’ll quickly translate your knowledge into real-world skills, starting with a practicum experience in your second semester. Internship opportunities begin in year two, and provide the chance to work with individuals and groups of all ages who are experiencing mental illness, emotional and behavioral challenges, cancer, medical issues, brain injuries, or sexual and domestic abuse. Graduates from this program are master's-level clinicians who can jump right into the workforce, and pursue licensing.
You’ll have the option to pursue a Master of Science, which will provide you with clinical training and practice, studio art, and a completed research project, or the Master of Education track, which focuses on an understanding of arts-based research. By selecting this track, you’ll develop as an art therapist with an emphasis on academic scholarship surrounding clinical applications of research. While both tracks require participation in a final art exhibit, students in the MEd track concentrate on an aesthetic vision that includes materials, techniques, invention, expression, and observation. Emphasis of the final art exhibit for students in the MS track is related to their clinical experience.
What job can I get with a degree in Art Therapy / Counseling?
Imagine turning your creativity into a powerful tool for healing and personal transformation. A degree in Art Therapy from Springfield College opens doors to meaningful careers that combine artistic passion with psychological support.
Our cutting-edge program goes beyond traditional counseling. Art therapy is more than a career – it's a mission to help others find hope, healing, and self-expression through creativity. Springfield College provides the knowledge, skills, and passion to turn your compassion into a lifelong career.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Art therapists use creative processes to help individuals express themselves, explore their emotions, and improve their mental health. By guiding clients through art activities like painting, drawing, and sculpting, they provide a safe space for self-expression and reflection. These therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and private practices, and often assist people dealing with trauma, stress, or other emotional challenges. They combine their understanding of art with therapeutic techniques to promote healing and personal growth.
Mental health counselors advise individuals, families, couples, and groups. Some work with specific populations, such as children or older adults. Mental health counselors treat clients who have a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, grief, and stress. They also help with emotional health and relationship problems.
How to Apply:
Portfolio Requirements
Please read the following guidelines for preparing your art portfolio for review by a member of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts.
- A minimum of eight pieces
- Pieces should reflect your growth as an artist, ability to work with diverse media, skills and your creativity
- While choosing pieces to include in your portfolio, do not limit yourself to 2-D work (also show multiple views of 3-D pieces).
- Please include the following information for your work indicating
- Number
- Title of each piece
- Date of completion
- Medium used
- Approximate size of the piece
- Please include a short artist statement
Submit your portfolio via upload to your application portal. Instructions for upload will be emailed to you after you submit your application.
Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisite courses must be complete or in progress to be eligible for admission to the program:
- 18 credits in studio art (at least 3 credits need to be in a 3-dimensional art form, including clay, sculpture, or 3-dimensional art)
- 12 credits in Psychology
- 3 credits in Intro/General Psychology
- 3 credits in Abnormal Psychology
- 3 credits of an elective course in Psychology
- 3 credits of a course in either Introduction to Art Therapy, a research course in psychology, or developmental psychology
Application Requirements
- Complete the online application: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials and instructions for submitting supplemental materials as listed below.
- Essay: In two to three double-spaced pages, please describe significant life experiences that have contributed to your interest in your field, your understanding of this field, your occupational objectives, and why you have chosen Springfield College.
- Resume: Please include any college activities, out-of-school leadership experiences, work history, and community involvement to support your interest in or qualifications for graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member or direct supervisor: Recommenders will receive an email when you submit your application and will be able to upload your letter to your application.
- Interview: This program requires an interview.
- Transcripts: An official transcript from each college/university you have attended is required. In order to be considered official, transcripts must be received directly from the original source, by email to graduate@springfield.edu or mailed to the college address:
Springfield College
Office of Graduate Admissions
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109
International Applicants
- $100 non-refundable International Application fee
In addition to the above admissions requirements, all international applicants from non-English-speaking countries are required to submit:
- Proof of English language proficiency by way of the TOEFL or IELTS: Other tests may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to our language requirements for more information on acceptable tests, minimum scores, exemptions, and conditional acceptance. If your undergraduate degree was earned in the United States and you successfully completed college-level English, we will consider English language proficiency met.
- Please note: Transcripts must be in English. If the transcript is not in English you will be required to submit a professional credential evaluation completed by any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). For this we recommend SpanTran, with its customized portal for Springfield College applicants. World Education Services or Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. are also recommended for your credential evaluations.
The Office of International Admissions can assist you with questions you may have about enrolling at Springfield College as an international student by emailing intladmissions@springfieldcollege.edu.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students:
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available
International Students:
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: May 1
