Art Therapy

This is really a clinical training program that equips students with theoretical understanding and practical experience to be used in a variety of contexts including government and community organisations, health care settings and private practice. The Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy and Rehab Certificate in Art Therapy are accessible within an exit point only.

The Master of Art Therapy complies with All the training guidelines of the Association of Arts Therapy (ANZATA) and has been approved by the ANZATA Accreditation Subcommittee. Course graduates are eligible to apply for specialist registration with ANZATA. Based on their field of job, Master of Art Therapy graduates may be qualified for industrial award policy being an Art Therapist under the NSW Health Professionals Award. This training course is also accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).

• Hold a qualification as detailed on the WS website
• Publish a portfolio of work and CV directly to the School
• Attend a group interview on campus.
  See website for more details.

The Art Therapy program at Western Sydney University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Domestic students may be eligible to access government assistance schemes such as Student Payment Options, FEE-HELP, and other Commonwealth-supported places, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of their education. FEE-HELP is a government loan scheme that assists eligible students in paying their tuition fees, allowing for flexible repayment options tailored to individual circumstances. International students are generally required to pay tuition fees upfront and may explore scholarships, bursaries, or external funding opportunities to support their enrollment. Western Sydney University provides various scholarships specifically for students pursuing health and arts-related programs, which can help offset costs and ease financial stress. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external grants, sponsorships, and part-time employment opportunities in Sydney to support their studies financially. The university's financial aid office offers comprehensive advice and assistance in navigating the available funding options, applying for scholarships, and managing tuition payments efficiently. Moreover, students enrolled in the Art Therapy program can benefit from payment plans that facilitate installment payments, making it easier to manage their finances over the duration of the course. It is advisable for prospective students to thoroughly review the specific eligibility criteria for each funding option and to contact the university's financial services team for personalized advice. Furthermore, Western Sydney University often updates its financial support offerings to align with changes in government policies and economic conditions, ensuring students receive the most current assistance available. Overall, the university is committed to supporting the financial wellbeing of its students, providing a variety of funding sources to enable access to quality education in Art Therapy without excessive financial hardship.

The Master of Art Therapy at Western Sydney University offers a comprehensive postgraduate qualification designed to prepare students for professional practice in art therapy. This program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to work effectively with diverse client populations, including those with mental health issues, disabilities, and emotional challenges. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as psychology, human development, and creativity, along with specialized art therapy techniques and ethical considerations. Students engage in supervised clinical placements, allowing them to gain real-world experience and develop their therapeutic competencies under professional guidance. The program emphasizes a client-centered approach, promoting the use of art-making as a therapeutic tool to facilitate emotional expression, insight, and personal growth. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers, providing mentorship and current insights into the field. Graduates of the Master of Art Therapy are equipped to work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, community health organizations, hospitals, schools, and private practice. The program also fosters research skills, encouraging students to contribute to the evidence base of art therapy through research projects. With a flexible delivery mode, including full-time and part-time options, the program accommodates working professionals and those with family commitments. Overall, this degree aims to develop creative, compassionate, and skilled art therapists who can make meaningful contributions to individual and community well-being.