Art professor with student looking at printmaking

Become an Art Therapist. Start at Slippery Rock.

SRU's BFA prepares students with a wide variety of skills and techniques necessary for successful careers

Art BFA: Psychology (Pre-Art Therapy)

Offered by: Art

The Bachelor of Fine Arts: Concentration in Psychology (Pre-Art Therapy) is a program that prepares students for graduate studies in Art Therapy. The program offers a broad range of art studios where students can develop skills and learn a variety of techniques necessary for their future career. The Psychology courses included in the Concentration prepare students for Art Therapy graduate programs.

Why Choose Art: Psychology (Pre-Art Therapy)?

The BFA: Concentration in Psychology (Pre-Art Therapy) is for students who are interested in pursuing a career as an art therapist. Art therapists, through the use of art media and creative processes, help manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem and improve overall well-being. 

The BFA, a professional degree, offers a thorough study in a broad range of ten studio areas addressing a variety of media, techniques and processes. Art graduates are successful due to the uniqueness of their portfolios, one-on-one professor mentoring, and expansive art experiences. Education is provided by internationally recognized professional artists and distinguished educators. Small class sizes in well-equipped studios allow for a high degree of individual attention and professional experience. 

This program is paired up with selected psychology courses (Concentration in Psychology) preparing students for Art Therapy graduate programs. A Master's degree is required to obtain a license. 

What Will You Learn?

In this program students develop a broad knowledge of various techniques of artistic expression along with developing a greater depth of knowledge in art history. Classes are offered in painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, photography, graphic design, digital media, metalsmithing, ceramics, fiber art and art history. From introductory to advanced levels of studio courses, students gain competency and skills required in their professional field. The Concentration in Psychology (15 credits) offers a range of courses from an introduction to psychological concepts to topics of human development and diversity.

Careers In Art Therapy

A growing trend of support through counseling and other forms of therapy opens new markets for professional therapists for all age groups.

Art therapists and counselors find employment in private practice, hospitals, mental health facilities, schools and colleges, clinical research centers, detention and rehabilitation centers and senior centers. 

Earn your Bachelor of Fine Arts at Slippery Rock!

Slippery Rock University's BFA Art: Psychology program prepares students for successful careers in the growing field of Art Therapy. Interested in learning more? Request more information today!