📚About the Program
Art Psychotherapy is a catalyst for the arts being of service to people and communities in need. Applications open 1 Jan 23 and close on 1 March 23.The MSc Art Psychotherapy course is a two-year part time training programme approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the regulating body for the health and care professions in the UK.
The course combines experiential learning, clinical placements, seminars, and studio practices. Art Psychotherapy trainees also attend clinical supervision to support their learning and professional development within a variety of practicum settings.
Art psychotherapists work with children, young people, adults, and older people in a range of health, education, social care, advocacy, and community services.
As a career Art Psychotherapy offers an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. It combines therapeutic expertise, evidence based research, social engagement and creative ingenuity. The course integrates HCPC professional clinical training requirements along with practice-based learning in conjunction with cultural partners, advocacy organisations, and social enterprise initiatives.
The training in art psychotherapy is life changing for both the student and the service user. Art in the service of wellness creates opportunities for making both with art media and the materials of our lives.
MSc Art Psychotherapy, Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the course located?
The course is located in city centre Belfast at the Belfast School of Art, Ulster University (Birley Building, York Street). The Belfast School of Art is situated in the Cathedral Quarter, the arts and culture district of Belfast, which is home to galleries and performance venues.
How many days a week do I attend classes on campus?
One day a week on either a Wednesday or a Friday between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm. In 2023 students will attend on a Friday, and this day will remain the same in the second year of their studies. Please note students attend classes in the autumn, spring and summer semesters.
How many days a week do I attend practicums?
Students attend practicums for the equivalent of two days a week. This could be two weekdays, or one weekday and two evenings, or one weekday and a Saturday according to the student's schedule and the availability of practicums which operate outside of office hours.
Why is it essential to have 1000 hours of working with people experience before applying to the course?
It is important to develop a portfolio of volunteer and work experiences supporting people in a helping capacity in order to confirm your commitment to train in a health and caring profession. References from a volunteer coordinator or employer will be requested to endorse your capacity to train as an art psychotherapist.
Do I need an art degree to apply for the course?
Applicants have a broad range of educational and professional experiences. Applicants may be graduates with an arts degree, but equally they can be teachers, nurses, social workers, counsellors, and allied health professionals. Applicants may also be psychology or humanities graduates. In all cases applicants should have an artistic practice and submit images of artworks with their application that demonstrate proficiency with a range of art media.
Is there an academic component to the course?
Yes, students submit academic coursework that is logically structured, critically engaging, and demonstrates an understanding of complex ideas and clinical approaches. Academic coursework is written using the APA 7 referencing style.
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