Course information contained within the Bulletin is accurate at the time of publication in June 2025 but is subject to change. For the most up-to-date course information, please refer to the Course Catalog.
ARTT 8004. Introduction to Art Therapy. 3 Credit Hours.
This course is designed to offer students a didactic and experiential introductory overview of the field of art therapy. Material covered will include history, theory, and practice of art therapy processes and approaches as well as a survey of populations, settings, and applications. Lectures, readings, discussion, audiovisual presentations, experiential exercises, and guest presentations comprise the structure of this course.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8101. Foundations in Expressive Therapies. 2 Credit Hours.
This course integrates expressive therapies, including art therapy, music therapy, drama therapy, and dance/movement therapy. Students will engage in an in-depth exploration of how expressive therapy modalities can be applied to diverse populations and settings to enhance therapeutic practices and outcomes.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8102. Theoretical Foundations in Art Therapy, History, and Approaches. 3 Credit Hours.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations, historical evolution, and various approaches within art therapy. Students will explore the development of art therapy as a discipline, examine key theoretical models and influential figures, and study the diverse methodologies utilized in practice. The course emphasizes critical analysis of theoretical frameworks and their practical applications across different populations and settings. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, experiential learning activities, and case study analyses, students will develop a thorough understanding of how various theoretical perspectives inform art therapy practice. Students will also examine contemporary issues and emerging trends in the field while developing their own theoretical orientation to art therapy practice.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8103. Art Therapy Materials, Media, and Techniques. 3 Credit Hours.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the materials, media, and techniques used in art therapy. Students will gain hands-on experience with a variety of artistic mediums and learn how to effectively integrate these tools into therapeutic practice. Understanding the therapeutic utility and psychological properties of a range of art processes and materials from traditional materials and crafts to recyclable materials for delivery of art therapy services will be explored. The course will focus on metaphors and symbolism inherent in materials and the significance of client imagery. How to discern personal imagery and symbols from clients while maintaining professional and ethical boundaries will be emphasized.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8104. Art Therapy Assessments and Treatment. 3 Credit Hours.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of assessment methods within art therapy. Students will learn how to use art-based tools and techniques to evaluate clients' psychological, emotional, and developmental needs.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8105. Art Therapy Research. 3 Credit Hours.
This course focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to conduct empirical research within art therapy. Topics covered may include qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, ethical considerations in research involving vulnerable populations, and the application of research findings to inform and improve therapeutic practices in art therapy settings.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8201. Art Therapy with Groups. 3 Credit Hours.
This course explores the principles and practices of facilitating art therapy within group settings. Students will learn therapeutic dynamics, group processes, and art-based interventions that enhance group cohesion, facilitate personal growth, conflict resolution, and trust building within group structures.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8202. Art Therapy Ethics. 3 Credit Hours.
This course provides a comprehensive examination of the ethical principles and professional standards guiding art therapy. Students will explore the fundamental ethical issues specific to art therapy, including confidentiality, informed consent, professional boundaries, and the dual relationships that may arise in therapeutic settings.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8203. Relationships and Family Art Therapy. 3 Credit Hours.
This course explores the application of art therapy principles and techniques within family systems. It emphasizes understanding and addressing family dynamics through creative expression and therapeutic process. Students will learn how to use art therapy to facilitate communication, strengthen relationships, and address issues within family units.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8301. Cultural Responsiveness in Art Therapy. 3 Credit Hours.
This course focuses on developing cultural competence and responsiveness in art therapy practice. Students will explore how cultural factors influence the therapeutic process and learn strategies for adapting art therapy practices to meet the diverse needs of clients from various cultural backgrounds.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8302. Community-Based Practices in Art Therapy. 3 Credit Hours.
This course explores the transformative power of art in public practice, focusing on both studio art therapy and community-based art therapy. Students will engage with theoretical frameworks, practical applications, and ethical considerations related to using art as a tool for healing, social justice, and community engagement.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 8303. Professional Wellness Seminar. 1 Credit Hour.
This seminar focuses on promoting and sustaining professional wellness, emphasizing strategies for managing stress, achieving work-life balance, and fostering personal growth within a professional context. Understanding the connections between one's personal creative process and artist identity will be underscored. Clinical and ethical implications of using one's own art-making process in session to develop therapeutic rapport, facilitate creative expression, and promote the therapeutic process are examined.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 9086. Internship II. 3 Credit Hours.
This art therapy graduate-level course builds upon the skills acquired in Internship I to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of art therapy practice. During class group supervision, complex cases, relational dynamics, and professional boundaries within the therapeutic relationship are addressed. Students apply fundamentals of art therapy and develop approaches applicable to the setting and clients served. Students complete a 300-hour internship over two semesters, with 140 direct client contact hours completed at a training site approved by the program.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 9087. Practicum I. 3 Credit Hours.
This course is a foundational graduate art therapy course that provides students with hands-on experience in art therapy settings. This course marks the beginning of the student's journey into practical application, offering an opportunity to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world practice under the guidance of credentialed art therapists. Students are required to complete a 50-hour practicum, with 20 direct client contact hours completed at a training site approved by the program.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 9088. Practicum II. 3 Credit Hours.
This course is an advanced graduate art therapy course that builds upon the foundational skills and experiences gained in Practicum I. This course is designed to deepen students' clinical practice in art therapy, focusing on advanced techniques, complex cases, and professional development. Students will continue to refine their skills and expand their therapeutic repertoire under the supervision of credentialed art therapists. Students are required to complete a 50-hour practicum, with 20 direct client contact hours completed at a training site approved by the program.
Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.
ARTT 9991. Directed Research. 1 to 3 Credit Hour.
This course provides comprehensive support for students in the development, writing, and completion of their master's thesis.
Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.
