2 answers
Patricia
Student
Oskaloosa, Kansas
1
Question
Updated
153 views
What should I look for in a masters program for art therapy?
I've had professors tell me to look at who is in the program and not the school but what else should I be looking for? Or what should I look out for?
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2 answers
Daniel Hermosillo
Recruiting & Staffing - Talent Acquisition
5
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Focus on the academic offerings of each program. Look closely at the curriculum and choose the one that covers the topics you love. This will match your personal interests, help you reach your career goals, and support your long-term growth in the field.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Patricia
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1376
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Patricia,
Your professors gave you solid advice, the people in the program (faculty, supervisors, cohort) really do shape your experience. But there are a few other things you should look at to make sure the program truly sets you up for practice.
First, check accreditation and licensing alignment. This is non-negotiable. Make sure the program meets the requirements for becoming a licensed art therapist or counselor in the state you plan to practice in. It should clearly include the right coursework and supervised clinical hours, otherwise you may struggle later when applying for licensure.
Next, look closely at the clinical training structure. Where do students get placed? Are the practicum and internship sites strong and well-supported? Do you get experience with the populations you care about (children, trauma, schools, hospitals)? The quality of your fieldwork will shape your confidence and competence.
Also pay attention to the program’s approach to art therapy. Some programs lean more clinical and evidence-based, while others are more expressive or studio-focused. Neither is wrong, you just want one that matches how you see yourself working with clients.
Another key factor is supervision and mentorship. Ask how often you receive supervision, who provides it, and how accessible faculty are. Good supervision is where a lot of real learning happens. Don’t overlook career outcomes and support. Where do graduates end up working? Does the program help with job placement, networking, or licensure steps after graduation? This gives you a realistic picture of what happens after you finish.
Lastly, think about the overall workload and structure. Art therapy programs can be intensive, balancing academic work, clinical hours, and personal creative practice. You want a program that challenges you but is still sustainable.
One simple way to think about it: you’re not just choosing a school, you’re choosing a training environment that shapes how you’ll practice. If a program is accredited, offers strong clinical placements, aligns with your style, and provides good supervision, you’re likely looking at a solid option. You’re asking the right questions, and that will help you make a choice you won’t regret later.
Best wishes!
Your professors gave you solid advice, the people in the program (faculty, supervisors, cohort) really do shape your experience. But there are a few other things you should look at to make sure the program truly sets you up for practice.
First, check accreditation and licensing alignment. This is non-negotiable. Make sure the program meets the requirements for becoming a licensed art therapist or counselor in the state you plan to practice in. It should clearly include the right coursework and supervised clinical hours, otherwise you may struggle later when applying for licensure.
Next, look closely at the clinical training structure. Where do students get placed? Are the practicum and internship sites strong and well-supported? Do you get experience with the populations you care about (children, trauma, schools, hospitals)? The quality of your fieldwork will shape your confidence and competence.
Also pay attention to the program’s approach to art therapy. Some programs lean more clinical and evidence-based, while others are more expressive or studio-focused. Neither is wrong, you just want one that matches how you see yourself working with clients.
Another key factor is supervision and mentorship. Ask how often you receive supervision, who provides it, and how accessible faculty are. Good supervision is where a lot of real learning happens. Don’t overlook career outcomes and support. Where do graduates end up working? Does the program help with job placement, networking, or licensure steps after graduation? This gives you a realistic picture of what happens after you finish.
Lastly, think about the overall workload and structure. Art therapy programs can be intensive, balancing academic work, clinical hours, and personal creative practice. You want a program that challenges you but is still sustainable.
One simple way to think about it: you’re not just choosing a school, you’re choosing a training environment that shapes how you’ll practice. If a program is accredited, offers strong clinical placements, aligns with your style, and provides good supervision, you’re likely looking at a solid option. You’re asking the right questions, and that will help you make a choice you won’t regret later.
Best wishes!