Art Psychotherapy

Entry requirements

Criteria leading to selection for interview:

(a) A 2:2 degree or above in either visual arts, psychology, psychotherapy, social work, nursing, teaching, social care, occupational therapy or an allied profession.

(b) A commitment to reflective arts practices facilitating personal insight and an artistic repertoire of self enquiry. If invited for interview, a portfolio of six artworks demonstrating proficiency in a range of arts media will be requested.

(c) A 1000 hours of work experience in a helping capacity in either mental health, arts and health, social care, social work, special education, or a counselling setting. Paid or voluntary work is acceptable.

(d) Applicants are requested to demonstrate self-awareness, psychological mindedness, emotional resilience, robustness, and the capacity to be empathetic.

(e) All applicants are asked to demonstrate a level of English necessary for the completion of academic assignments. An example of academic writing can support your application and also be submitted prior to interview.

All successful applicants are required to complete an enhanced Access NI security check.

Applicants will be required to submit references from two referees relating to their academic and professional performance.

Applications for this course will open on 1 November 2021 and close on 1 March 2022.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc Art Psychotherapy course is a two-year part time training programme approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the regulating body for the health and care professions in the UK.

The course combines experiential learning, clinical placements, seminars, and studio practices. Art Psychotherapy trainees also attend clinical supervision to support their learning and professional development within a variety of practicum settings.

Art psychotherapists work with children, young people, adults, and older people in a range of health, education, social care, advocacy, and community services.

As a career Art Psychotherapy offers an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. It combines therapeutic expertise, evidence based research, social engagement and creative ingenuity. The course integrates HCPC professional clinical training requirements along with practice-based learning in conjunction with cultural partners, advocacy organisations, and social enterprise initiatives.

The training in art psychotherapy is life changing for both the student and the service user. Art in the service of wellness creates opportunities for making both with art media and the materials of our lives.

Information for international students

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 7.0 with no band score less than 6.5.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.