Art therapy is a rapidly growing field that combines the power of art-making and the therapeutic value of counseling. It is an excellent option for individuals who seek to help others in a meaningful way, and many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offer comprehensive art therapy programs for aspiring therapists. In this article, we will discuss some of the best HBCUs for art therapy and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Howard University is a top-tier HBCU that offers a comprehensive Master of Art Therapy program. The program follows a holistic approach to art therapy and focuses on developing students’ skills to become effective and compassionate therapists. It includes courses in psychology, art therapy theory, and practice, as well as experiential learning opportunities in the field. Additionally, Howard has an on-campus counseling center, which provides students with supervised practical experience. Graduates from this program are highly sought after by employers in the healthcare sector.
2. North Carolina Central University
North Carolina Central University offers a Master’s in Art Therapy/Counseling program, which is accredited by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA). The program is highly focused on research and stresses community involvement and the practical application of art therapy. Students are trained to work with diverse populations in different settings, such as schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Additionally, the faculty at North Carolina Central University is highly regarded and includes both practicing and academic experts in the field.
Clark Atlanta University offers a Master’s program in Art Therapy, which is designed to train students to work as culturally sensitive and ethical therapists. The program emphasizes experiential learning, and students are required to complete two semesters of supervised clinical work in mental health or community settings. Clark Atlanta also has a research center focused on art therapy, which provides students with ample opportunities to engage in research projects and present their findings at national conferences. Graduates from this program are well-prepared to work as licensed clinical art therapists.
Florida A&M University offers an undergraduate program in Art Therapy, which prepares students to pursue a Master’s degree in the field. The program combines psychology courses with art therapy coursework, and students are required to complete hands-on experiential learning experiences to strengthen their practical skills. Additionally, the university’s counseling center provides students with valuable practical experience in a supervised and controlled environment.
Alabama State University offers a Master’s in Art Therapy program, which equips students with the necessary skills to work as licensed clinical art therapists. The focus is on integrating creative expression and therapy as students learn to engage with diverse communities effectively. As part of the program, students are required to complete a supervised practicum to gain first-hand experience in mental health or community art therapy settings. Graduates from this program have gained recognition in their field and are known for their transformative work in underserved communities.
In conclusion, pursuing art therapy at an HBCU provides an opportunity to work in a culturally rich and diverse community. These institutions offer comprehensive programs designed to prepare students to work as effective and compassionate therapists. Students are equipped with practical skills and are exposed to diverse communities, which they can leverage to provide transformative care to their future patients. So whether you are an aspiring art therapist looking to make a difference in someone’s life, consider getting your training at an HBCU.
