Art Psychotherapy

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a second-class honours degree (2:2 or above), usually in art or design. Degrees in related fields such as psychology, teaching, nursing, humanities, occupational therapy or social work will also be considered.

A minimum of one year’s recent care work experience (within the last five years) is required. This may be paid or voluntary and must involve relevant client groups, such as children, adults, older adults, individuals with learning disabilities, mental health needs, dementia, those in hospice care, or people experiencing homelessness.

As part of the application process, you must submit:

• A written personal statement demonstrating awareness of the emotional and academic demands of the course and your readiness for Master’s level study.

• A CV.

• Two references, one academic and one clinical or professional. References are taken up before an offer is made.

• An art portfolio. This must reflect psychological and emotional self-exploration through art and demonstrate reflective artistic practice and expressive range. Portfolios are presented at interview or uploaded in advance for online interviews. International applicants should provide an e-portfolio link.

Applicants must demonstrate maturity, self-awareness, empathy, emotional literacy and a commitment to anti-discriminatory practice. These qualities are assessed through interview, health screening and experiential components.

Successful applicants will be required to undertake personal therapy throughout the course (at their own expense) and complete an enhanced DBS check (or international equivalent if living abroad for one year or more), also at their own expense.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MA Art Psychotherapy is a professionally approved training programme that prepares you to practise as a registered art psychotherapist. Combining Jungian-informed theory with contemporary clinical approaches, the course supports you in developing as a reflective, ethical, and confident practitioner able to work across diverse health, education, and community settings.

You will explore how creative processes support psychological growth and emotional wellbeing, gaining skills in therapeutic art practice, clinical assessment, case formulation, and multidisciplinary teamwork. Teaching integrates seminars, studio-based exploration, supervised clinical placements, personal therapy, and research-informed study, enabling you to apply theory to real-world therapeutic contexts.

A strong emphasis is placed on reflective practice, anti-oppressive approaches, and inclusive care. Through supervised placements and a final clinical project, you will build the professional competencies required for safe and effective practice.

The programme is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), providing a nationally recognised professional qualification and eligibility to apply for registration as an art psychotherapist.

Information for international students

International students | University of Roehampton, London

Fees and funding

Fees and funding | University of Roehampton, London