Overview
*This course is undergoing academic validation. Please note that the information displayed here is subject to change as part of this process.

The programme has art-making and the art process at its core within the context of psychotherapeutic training.

Summary
The programme will promote an evidence-based integrative and pluralistic theoretical stance, founded on a relational and person-centred way of being, and underpinned by working within ethical and professional requirements.

About
The MSc Art Therapy, seeking HCPC approval, is a pre-registration clinical training course run by the Belfast School of Art and validated by Ulster University. The Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the statutory regulator of the Allied Health Professions and Art Therapy is one of the Allied Health Professions.

The programme encompasses lectures, seminars, workshops. Students' artist and Art Therapist identities will be promoted, particularly in experiential groups: training groups and studio groups. The MSc Art Therapy will also encompass practicum components, with students being on approved clinical placements in diverse organisational settings. These will be supported by ongoing supervision from experienced HCPC Registered Art Therapists / Art Psychotherapists, clinical seminars and personal therapy. To maximise student clinical and multi-disciplinary team experience and potential for employment, placements will be with approved agencies across statutory and voluntary settings and with clients across the lifespan.

Successful completion of an HCPC approved programme provides eligibility to apply for HCPC registration. It is a legal requirement that anyone who wishes to practise using a title protected by the Health & Care Professions Council Order 2001 (e.g. "Art Therapist" or "Art Psychotherapist") is on the HCPC register. Therefore, Registration permits practice of Art Therapy / Art Psychotherapy in the UK and use of the legally protected titles: "Art Therapist" or "Art Psychotherapist".