Art Therapy

The Master of Arts in Art Therapy is a taught Masters providing professional training in Art Therapy. Through theoretical studies, experiential learning and clinical placement, students develop an understanding of the theories and practices of art therapy necessary for safe therapeutic work. The MA in Art Therapy is a recognised Art Therapy qualification which, on completion, allows individuals to register with the professional body, Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists (IACAT).

Modules
The programme aims to equip Art Therapy practitioners with a range of therapeutic skills and interventions to work with both individual and group clients in a variety of health and community settings. It follows three strands of learning:

Theoretical Studies (25 Credits)
Experiential Art Therapy Training (20 Credits)
Clinical Placement and Professional Studies (45 Credits)*

* Students are encouraged to experience a number of differing placement situations over the course of their training. Please note that students must have their placements in a new setting and not at their workplace. Supervision of the clinical experience is central to the art therapy training and is provided in small groups at Crawford College and individually on placement.

Applicants normally require:
An Honours degree, or equivalent, in Visual Art. Where graduate qualifications are not in the visual arts, for example, Psychiatric Nursing, Social Work or Teaching, evidence of a substantial and developing body of current and recent art work is essential
Minimum of one year, or equivalent, full-time clinical/care work in an area relevant to art therapy, paid or voluntary. This work may be, for example, in Health or Social Services, Special Education, Community Care or Day Centres, with clients who have a mental illness, learning or physical disability
Strong portfolio of personal artwork showing an understanding of an appropriate art form, the art-making process showing the applicants relationship and connection to their creative process
Two satisfactory references from clinical and professional persons who have knowledge of the candidate’s education, training and experience
A good understanding of therapeutic and professional working of Art Therapy and the implications of working as a therapist
Pre-course experience in personal therapy or counselling is preferred

Early Assessment:
Because of the clinical placement component of this course, it is a condition of entry that all successful applicants will be subject to the National Vetting Bureau (NVB) procedure carried out by the NVB facilitator at MTU. Offers of a place on this programme will be provisional and contingent on the applicant’s satisfactory completion of MTU’s NVB procedure.

APPLICATION DEADLINE 26th April 2024

2 Years Full Time or
3 Years Part Time

The course is delivered on a part-time over 3 years (1 college day and 1 clinical placement day) or on a full-time basis over two years (2 college days and 2 clinical placement days).

Course Delivery Start Date: September 2024

Art therapists work in a wide variety of HSE and social care settings, including – adult and child psychiatry, education, palliative care, addiction services and community day centres. Many also work in private practice.