What are the requirements to be an art therapist?

To work as an art therapist you need to complete a postgraduate diploma (or Masters) approved by the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). Once you have qualified, you need to register with the Health Professions Council (HPC).

BAAT and HPC-approved postgraduate diplomas and Masters in Art Therapy or Art Psychotherapy are usually two years full-time or three years part-time. To get on to a course you will usually need a degree in art and design, or to be a qualified art teacher. You may also be considered if you have a degree in another subject such as psychology or social work.

Educational Programs

Length. Art therapy master’s degree programs are no less than 2 years and must include a minimum of 24 graduate credit hours in the art therapy core curriculum.

Prerequisites. Applicants to master’s degree programs must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited US institution or have equivalent academic preparation from an institution outside the United States. In addition, prospective students must submit a portfolio of original artwork and must document 15 semester hours in studio art and 12 semester hours in psychology.

Curriculum. Educational requirements include: theories of art therapy, counseling, and psychotherapy; psychopathology; ethics and standards of practice; assessment and evaluation; individual, group, and family techniques; human and creative development; multicultural issues; research methods; and practicum experiences in clinical, community, and/or other settings.

Licensure, Certification, and Registration

The Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) Inc., an independent organization, grants a credential, Art Therapist Registered (ATR), after reviewing documentation of completion of graduate education and supervised postgraduate experience. Registered art therapists who successfully complete a written examination administered by the ATCB are qualified as Board Certified (ATR-BC). Recertification is required every 5 years by documentation of continuing education credits (CECs).

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