Art Therapy & Counseling Graduate Studies

Various, colorful fabric pieces hanging from the ceiling of a gallery space.

Candice Block, "Pleasure Poetry," 2020

Art Therapy and Counseling Graduate Overview

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's (SAIC) Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling program is one of the oldest professional Art Therapy programs in the Midwest. The three-year curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking so that students are actively involved in creating the learning environment, questioning dominant discourses in the field, and taking part in the production of new ideas.

MA in Art Therapy and Counseling candidates are required to complete:

60 credit hours of classroom and fieldwork study
Two fieldwork experiences in approved agencies. This clinical experience must total at least 1,000 hours under the supervision of registered art therapists and other mental health professionals.
A scholarly thesis or graduate project
Participation in the annual exhibition showcasing artwork by MA in Art Therapy and Counseling third-year students and the people they work with at their internship sites

You will emerge from the SAIC Art Therapy and Counseling program with the academic requirements for eventual registration and board certification (ATR-BC) with the Art Therapy Credentials Board and application for the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor exam in the state of Illinois.

Art Therapy and Counseling Program Accreditation

The Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (caahep.org) upon the recommendation of The Accreditation Council for Art Therapy Education.

Program Outcomes Data

Academic Year 2022–23
Number of Graduates: 19
Retention Rate: 96%
Positive Employment Placement: 94%

Program Guide

Review the Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling Program Guide for detailed information on preparing for a graduate education in Art Therapy at SAIC, which covers prerequisite courses as well as the academic and studio work, interpersonal skills, and human service experience expected of applicants.

Upcoming Admissions Events

Dec07

Graduate SAIC Day: December 7

Engage with key faculty members from our graduate departments, meet current graduate students, learn about our curricula and facilities, and inquire about admissions and financial aid. While not required, you may wish to bring your portfolio for review. Graduate campus tours will also be offered.

Saturday, December 07 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CST at MacLean Ballroom 112 S. Michigan Chicago, IL 60603