Art Psychotherapy MSc

Program Overview

The MSc Art Psychotherapy program at Ulster University is a two-year, part-time postgraduate training program approved by the HCPC. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to practice as art psychotherapists through modules, lectures, seminars, and supervised practicum placements. Graduates can pursue careers in mental health services, educational institutions, and other settings. Personal therapy is required throughout the training to support students' emotional development and understanding of the therapeutic process.

Program Outline

Degree Overview: The MSc Art Psychotherapy program is a two-year, part-time postgraduate training program at Ulster University. It is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the regulating body for healthcare professions in the UK. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to practice as art psychotherapists.

Outline: The MSc Art Psychotherapy program comprises modules, lectures, and seminars. It also includes practicum components where students undertake approved placements in various settings, such as mental health, education, arts and health, community, and voluntary services. Additionally, students gain clinical experience through supervision from registered arts therapists and psychotherapists.

Year 1:

• Art Psychotherapy: Foundations of Theory and Practice: This module explores the history, principles, and practice of art psychotherapy within professional and ethical boundaries.
• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 1: This module introduces students to the practice of art psychotherapy under clinical supervision and supports the development of professional skills.
• Art Psychotherapy: Diversity and Praxis: This module explores the application of art psychotherapy in diverse cultural contexts and fosters culturally competent practice.
• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 2 (Part 1): This module continues the development of art psychotherapy practice under supervision and encourages exploration within professional boundaries.

Year 2:

• Art Psychotherapy: Continuing Professional Responsibility: This module focuses on reflexive practice, evaluation of practice, collaboration, clinical audit, and career-long learning.
• Art Psychotherapy: Portfolios of Professional Practice: This module explores art psychotherapy research and encourages the development of research skills.
• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 3: This module provides continued experience in art psychotherapy practice under supervision and further enhances professional skills.
• Art Psychotherapy: Practicum 2 (Part 2): This module continues the development of art psychotherapy practice and includes supervision groups and clinical seminars.

Assessment: Assessment methods may include examinations, coursework, and assignments. The exact format and combination of assessment will vary depending on the individual modules.

Teaching: The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are qualified and experienced in art psychotherapy. They employ various teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, group discussions, and supervision.

Careers: Graduates of the MSc Art Psychotherapy program can pursue careers in various settings, including:

• Mental health services
• Educational institutions
• Arts and health organizations
• Community care settings
• Private practice

Other:

• Personal Therapy: Students are required to engage in personal therapy for a minimum of 75 hours throughout their training.
This helps them gain a deeper understanding of the therapeutic process and supports their emotional development.
• Cost: The program fee for NI/ROI/GB students is £6,270.00 per year.
Additional expenses may include personal therapy, travel, and materials.
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold a 2:2 degree in a relevant field, have 1000 hours of experience in a helping capacity, and demonstrate self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a commitment to reflective practice.
• Modules: The specific modules offered may vary depending on the year of entry.
• Supervision: Students receive supervision from experienced HCPC registered arts therapists and psychotherapists.

NI/ROI/GB Fees

£6,270.00

International Fees

£17,089.20

Additional mandatory costs

Students must be prepared to enter personal therapy, with a university approved therapist for a minimum of 75 hours throughout their training. Personal therapy provides an experience of learning about the therapeutic relationship and supports the emotional demands of training. Personal therapists are required to submit reports confirming hours completed and noting any concerns about a student practicing as an art psychotherapist. The costs of this vary significantly and may range between £25 to £80 per session. This provides a personal experience of learning about therapy and also supports the emotional demands of the training. Whilst the content of this therapy work is confidential within normal parameters, personal therapists are required to submit a report regularly confirming the hours completed and noting any serious concerns about the student practising. Whilst students are covered by University insurance, students are strongly encouraged to take out their own additional professional indemnity cover and this may be required by some placements. Studio fee for specialist art equipment may be required and is normally up to £100 and contributes to additional materials used by students. Students purchase materials for their own coursework.