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Pre-Art Therapy
If you're passionate about using creativity to make a difference, the Pre-Art Therapy specialization within the BFA in Art program is designed for you. This pre-professional degree prepares you for advanced studies in art therapy, leading to licensure as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR). In this program, you'll delve into a range of art techniques, explore sociocultural practices, and engage with psychological theories.
Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in diverse settings, including hospitals, mental health agencies, and crisis centers. If you're ready to express and reflect through art to better understand the human experience, this program is your pathway to a fulfilling career in art therapy.
Program Information
As a student in the Pre-Art Therapy specialization, you'll engage in two professional practicums with our community partners and develop a reflective portfolio. This interdisciplinary training meets the graduate school prerequisites outlined by the American Art Therapy Association.
Upon completing the program, you'll be well-prepared for admission to graduate programs in art therapy, where you can earn an advanced degree and pursue certification as a Registered Art Therapist (ATR).
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Pre-Art Therapy)
The undergraduate major can be accomplished by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 120 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- Foundation Requirements: 9 credit hours
- Psychology Requirements: 15 credit hours
- Studio Requirements: 24 credit hours
- Art Education Requirements: 21 credit hours
- Art History or Studio Electives: 12 credit hours
Check out the undergraduate Curricular Guide which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for all four years. View all related undergraduate courses.
Facilities
We are located in the Allyn Building, nestled in the historic central quadrangle of the campus. This building also hosts advisement and administrative offices, the art education library, drawing and painting studios, and a comprehensive printmaking facility.
You'll have access to the university's extensive museum collection and opportunities to collaborate with the museum staff.
Scholarships
As a BFA student specializing in Pre-Art Therapy, you are eligible for all general undergraduate scholarships offered through the School of Art and Design.
- Rickert-Ziebold Award
- SOAD Talent Scholarship
- John R. & Eleanor R. Mitchell Foundation Award
- Minority Award
- Progressus Scholarship
- Windgate Scholarship
- Undergraduate Studies Scholarship
Careers
Students who complete the required graduate coursework and seek licensure/certification in the field of Art Therapy can pursue careers the following areas:
- Private Practice
- Community Crisis Centers
- Wellness Centers
- Mental Health Institutions
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Hospitals
- Social Service Agencies
- Nursing Homes
- School Districts
Contact Information
Kristin Glenn
Area Head
Allyn 113
1100 S Normal Ave
Carbondale, IL 62901
kglenn405@siu.edu
Karen Wolf
Academic Adviser
Communications Building 1121G
1100 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
Phone: 618-453-6751
kwolf@siu.edu
