You may have always been the kind of person who finds peace in painting or clarity through collage. You may have seen how children express what they can’t say with words through simple sketches. Art therapy turns that power into a profession. And in today’s digital age, you don’t need to be tied to a physical classroom to pursue it.
With so many art therapy degree online programs now available, students can gain credentials, learn clinical skills, and prepare for licensure — all while studying from anywhere. But how do you choose the right one? Which schools are trusted? And what should you expect from the curriculum? Whether you’re exploring a career switch or planning your academic journey, this guide offers a complete look at everything you need to know about online art therapy degree programs.
Popular Online Programs & Providers
- Edgewood College: Offers a Master of Arts in Art Therapy & Counseling. The program blends creativity with psychology and includes in-person intensives.
- Adler University: Provides a fully online Master’s in Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy.
- Prescott College: Features an online Master’s in Art Therapy that emphasizes current counseling trends.
- Lesley University: Known for integrating art and psychology in its online art therapy degree programs.
- West Liberty University: Offers a 100% online MA in Art Therapy and Counseling with a supportive cohort model.
- Antioch University: Well-regarded for expressive arts and counseling, with online options.
- California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS): Offers online Expressive Arts Therapy master’s programs, blending visual art, movement, poetry, and more.
- Naropa University: Naropa’s program stands out for its unique Buddhist-inspired approach. It integrates art therapy with contemplative psychology and studio art. Students participate in 51 credit hours with unique milestone courses, capstone experiences, and a strong mentorship culture — all offered through a remote platform.
Key Features of Art Therapy Degree Online Programs
Hybrid Model: While most of the learning is done online, many art therapy degree online programs include in-person clinical practice or intensives to fulfill licensure requirements.
Curriculum Focus: Students study a combination of art-based interventions, psychology, and clinical counseling skills.
Experiential Structure: Programs often include theoretical coursework, practical assignments, and supervised internships.
How to Choose the Right Program
- Check Accreditation: Ensure that your chosen program is accredited by organizations like the American Art Therapy Association (AATA).
- Review the Curriculum: Look for a strong blend of theory and hands-on experience, as seen in top-tier art therapy degree online programs.
- Logistics & Cost: Consider the program length (typically 2–3 years), part-time options, and overall tuition cost. For instance, West Liberty University charges around $618/credit (~$12,360/year), Edgewood College $814/credit (~$16,280/year).
Career Opportunities
Graduates of art therapy degree online programs are well-prepared for a range of roles:
- Counselor
- Mental health therapist
- Child and adolescent psychologist
- Crisis intervention specialist
- School counselor
These professionals work in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, private practice, and nonprofit organizations.
Notable Universities Offering Art Therapy Degree Online Programs
Pennsylvania Western University
- Fully online Counseling – Art Therapy program.
- Tuition: ₦14,235,486/year (~$17,600 or ~£14,000)
- Duration: 2 years
California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS)
- Expressive Arts Therapy
- Tuition: $1,374/credit (~$41,220/year or ~£32,500)
- Duration: 3 years (full-time); 5.5 years (part-time)
Wayne State University
- Known for hybrid courses, top-tier faculty, and on-site clinical experience.
- Tuition: $1,804/credit (~$54,120 total or ~£42,500)
West Liberty University
- 60 credit hours (51 coursework, 9 practicum/internship)
- Tuition: $618/credit (~$12,360/year or ~£9,700)
Edgewood College
- Tuition: $814/credit (~$16,280/year or ~£12,900)
What Is Art Therapy?
According to the AATA, art therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession that promotes healing through active art-making, applied psychological theory, and psychotherapeutic relationships. Art therapy degree online programs train professionals to use this method to help individuals express themselves when words fall short.
Program Highlights from Edgewood College
- Access to top-notch art studios in painting, drawing, ceramics, and more
- Integration of neuroscience, symbolism, and ethics
- Emphasis on artistic identity as a therapeutic strength
- Courses like “Substance Abuse & Treatment” and “Family Systems” for well-rounded knowledge
Program Requirements
Most art therapy degree online programs require:
- A bachelor’s degree (preferably in art, psychology, or social sciences)
- A portfolio demonstrating artistic proficiency
- Letters of recommendation and personal statement
- Interviews or written responses
Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Scholarships are available at most institutions.
- Many programs accept FAFSA, and international students may qualify for merit-based aid.
Application Timelines
- August 2026 Start Dates are common across programs.
- May deadlines for Wayne State University
- Rolling admissions available at Edgewood and CIIS
Final Thoughts
Art therapy degree online programs offer more than just a qualification — they provide a transformative journey. With options tailored to different lifestyles and learning preferences, students can gain practical skills, clinical hours, and theoretical depth without putting their lives on hold. Whether your interest lies in expressive arts, psychology, or human healing, there’s a program ready to guide you toward a fulfilling, creative, and impactful career.
