Art Psychotherapy

This course is currently being revalidated and it is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described in this prospectus.



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.

Year one

• Art Psychotherapy: Theory and Practice

• Art Psychotherapy: Development of Theory and Practice

• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 1

• Art Psychotherapy: Working with Diversity

• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 2 (Part 1)



Year two

• Art Psychotherapy: Continuing Professional Responsibility

• Art Psychotherapy: Praxis and Research

• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 3

• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 2 (Part 2)

Criteria leading to selection for interview:

(a) A 2:2 degree or above in either visual arts, psychology, psychotherapy, social work, nursing, teaching, social care, or an allied profession.

(b) A commitment to reflective arts practices facilitating personal insight and an artistic repertoire of self enquiry. If invited for interview, a portfolio of six artworks demonstrating proficiency in a range of arts media will be requested.

(c) A 1000 hours of work experience in a helping capacity in either mental health, arts and health, social care, social work, special education, or a counselling setting. Paid or voluntary work is acceptable.

(d) Applicants are requested to demonstrate self-awareness, psychological mindedness, emotional resilience, robustness, and the capacity to be empathetic.

(e) All applicants are asked to demonstrate a level of English necessary for the completion of academic assignments. An example of academic writing can support your application and also be submitted prior to interview.



All successful applicants are required to complete an enhanced Access NI security check.



Applicants will be required to submit references from two referees relating to their academic and professional performance.



This course is currently under review.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants



The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 7.0 with no band score less than 6.5.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

60

MSc Art Psychotherapy is delivered in part-time mode over 2 years.

GradDip Public Policy (W315) Full Time

EU fee per year - € 5855

nonEU fee per year - € 13270


GradDip Public Policy (W316) Part Time

EU fee per year - € 3775

nonEU fee per year - € 6635


***Fees are subject to change



Tuition fee information is available on the UCD Fees website.

Start Date: September 2026

Career options

"Art Psychotherapy graduates typically combine sessional, part time and full time employment. They work with people of all ages living with a wide range of emotional or physical conditions in the context of mental health, education, arts and health, community, and voluntary settings. Art Psychotherapists need to be flexible and resourceful. Within the current context in health and social care, entrepreneurial skills are also needed, and most art psychotherapists start their career on a self-employed basis and establish art therapy provision in a wide variety of settings. Many Art Psychotherapists work in partnership with allied professionals to develop innovative approaches to practice" (British Association of Art Therapists).