Hofstra University United States

Creative Arts Therapy Counseling (M.A.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative journey with the Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling at Hofstra University, a program designed for those passionate about harnessing the healing power of art making. In this field, you will combine sophisticated counseling strategies with creative expression to guide individuals through mental health challenges, fostering growth and well-being. This graduate degree is ideal for aspiring therapists seeking to integrate artistic modalities into clinical practice, preparing you for licensure and professional certification. You will explore foundational concepts in art therapy counseling, child and adolescent development, and multicultural perspectives.

This intensive, full-time, on-campus Master of Arts program is structured over two years, immersing you in a curriculum rich with clinical instruction, group counseling techniques, and ethical considerations. You will engage in hands-on learning through supervised internships and practicum experiences, applying your knowledge in real-world clinical settings. The curriculum also includes a significant research component, either through a seminar or a thesis, allowing you to delve deeply into a specific area of interest. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared to pursue careers as licensed creative arts therapists, equipped with the skills and experience necessary for professional practice.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts program in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the necessary skills for clinical practice. The core curriculum covers essential areas such as foundations of art therapy, child and adolescent development, group counseling techniques, and multicultural perspectives. Students will engage in clinical instruction, practicum, and internship experiences, culminating in research and thesis work. Elective options allow for specialization in areas like art therapy for specific populations, drama therapy, or poetry therapy, further enhancing the student's therapeutic repertoire.

1 Core Curriculum - Semester Hours: 51-54

Clinical Instruction in Media Techniques
Foundations of Art Therapy Counseling
Child and Adolescent Development in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Group Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Clinical Methods in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Clinical Applications in Art Therapy Counseling
Internship: Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Internship: Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Practicum: Clinical Practice in Art Therapy Counseling
Multicultural Perspectives in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Creative Arts Therapy Counseling Throughout Adult Development and Aging
Ethical Considerations and Clinical Practice in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Research Seminar in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling
Thesis in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling I
Thesis in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling II
Counseling and Helping Relationships
Understanding Psychopathology in Counseling
Career Counseling and Development

2 Electives: Semester Hours: 6-9

Art Therapy for Adolescents
The Art Therapist's Identity in a Clinical Setting
Special Topics in Residential Art Therapy Experience
Exploration of Expressive Arts and Culture in Ireland
A Systematic Approach to Art Therapy: Working With the Family
Drama Therapy for the Helping Professional
Poetry/Bibliotherapy for the Helping Professional
Therapeutic Art for the Elderly
Readings
Readings
Special Topics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 32,930.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 32,930.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 65,860.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 340.00 - USD 1,938.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Hempstead Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

76%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAmusement & Recreation ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesLegal Aid & Public Interest LawMuseums & Cultural HeritageNursing & Allied HealthRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySecondary & High School EducationSports & AthleticsTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Hofstra University

Mount Sinai Health System

NYC Public Schools

NYU Langone Hospital

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital

Northwell Health

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Why Study Creative Arts Therapy Counseling (M.A.) at Hofstra University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Hofstra University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Hofstra University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Creative Arts Therapy Counseling (M.A.) at Hofstra University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate permits.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, or IELTS. For instance, a minimum overall score of 120 on Duolingo or 80 on TOEFL is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Art Therapist, Counselor, Mental Health Professional, and Creative Arts Educator.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Creative Arts Therapy Counseling (M.A.) program focuses on enhancing lives through art therapy and integrates courses on ethics and diversity. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, you will prepare for licensure and professional certification.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start your studies in Creative Arts Therapy Counseling in January or August. Make sure to prepare your application materials for these intake months.
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