Creative Arts Therapies

Creative Arts Dentistry is a humanistic psychotherapy with a person-centred framework which contains the use of expressive arts to enhance the therapeutic procedure. This therapeutic method is gaining momentum among existing practitioners and will lead students in having a foundation in both theoretical information and basic hands on art counselling and therapy abilities. While this course has demonstrated good for counsellors to work with clients expressing themselves, the program can be of interest for teachers, social workers, chaplains, psychologists, youth workers and others that are thinking about increasing the expressive abilities and mental wellbeing of their customers. Because the only university based creative arts remedies program extended in WA, and accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), the class will likely be highly experiential and run into new purpose-build classroom spaces at our Mandurah Campus with the possibility of the majority of units to be completed at either Perth or even Mandurah Campuses.

The Bachelor of Creative Arts Therapies at Murdoch University offers students an in-depth exploration of the transformative power of arts in promoting mental health, well-being, and personal development. This innovative program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications across various creative arts therapies, including music therapy, dance/movement therapy, drama therapy, and visual arts therapy. Throughout the course, students engage with contemporary research, develop practical skills, and participate in supervised clinical placements to gain real-world experience. The curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach, integrating psychological theories, cultural awareness, and ethical considerations to prepare students for diverse therapeutic settings. Students learn to assess client needs, design and implement tailored interventions, and evaluate therapeutic outcomes using creative modalities. The program fosters critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills essential for effective practice in health, educational, and community sectors. Graduates will be equipped to work alongside health professionals, educators, and community organizations, helping individuals improve their emotional and psychological well-being through creative expression. The degree aims to produce versatile practitioners capable of adapting to changing needs and fostering inclusive practices. Collaborative projects, multimedia workshops, and interactive seminars complement the coursework, encouraging creativity and innovation. With a strong focus on evidence-based practice and ethical standards, the program prepares students for further study or immediate employment in the growing field of arts therapies. Upon completion, graduates may pursue registration or certification pathways depending on specific professional requirements in their location. The Bachelor of Creative Arts Therapies at Murdoch University is committed to nurturing compassionate and skilled practitioners dedicated to making meaningful impacts on individuals and communities through the power of creative arts.

Conclusion of a bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent in any field. The entrance process includes both application and interview.

The financing options for the Creative Arts Therapies program at Murdoch University include a range of pathways designed to assist students in funding their education. Domestic students may be eligible for Commonwealth supported places, which significantly reduce the tuition fees compared to full fee-paying options. These supported places are subsidized by the Australian government, making higher education more accessible and affordable for Australian citizens and permanent residents. International students, on the other hand, are required to pay the full tuition fee, which varies depending on the specific course and year of study. Murdoch University offers various scholarships and bursaries for domestic and international students that can help offset the costs of tuition, with options based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as indigenous status or rurality. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government grants, student loans, and private scholarships. The Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) provides eligible students with a loan scheme that covers part or all of their tuition fees, repayable once the student's income exceeds a certain threshold. Additionally, students may consider part-time work opportunities available on or near campus to supplement their income during studies. The university also offers payment plans that enable students to spread their tuition payments over the duration of their courses, easing cash flow and budgeting concerns. International students should budget for visa-related costs, health insurance, and living expenses, which can be substantial. Financial planning is recommended to ensure smooth progression through the program without unforeseen financial stress. Overall, Murdoch University’s financing options aim to make Creative Arts Therapies degrees accessible and manageable for diverse student populations through a combination of government support, scholarships, and flexible payment arrangements.

Creative Arts Therapies at Murdoch University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding and practicing therapeutic techniques through the creative arts. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to employ arts-based interventions in various clinical, community, and educational settings. The curriculum includes core subjects such as counselling principles, psychology foundations, and contemporary approaches to arts therapies, alongside specialized modules focusing on music therapy, drama therapy, and visual arts therapy.

Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning, enabling them to develop their skills in a supportive environment through workshops, practicum placements, and collaborative projects. The program aims to foster creativity, self-awareness, and cultural sensitivity, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, and adults with mental health conditions, developmental issues, or trauma histories. The program also addresses ethical considerations, professional standards, and evidence-based practices relevant to creative arts therapies.

Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in settings such as hospitals, community health organizations, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. The university maintains strong industry links, providing students with opportunities for networking, internships, and employment post-graduation. The program adheres to the latest academic standards and encourages continued professional development, aligning with accreditation requirements for arts therapy practitioners in many regions.

Murdoch University’s approach combines theoretical coursework with practical application, fostering innovation and leadership within the field. Students develop competencies in assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions, along with research skills to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in arts therapies. By integrating diverse artistic modalities and psychological frameworks, the program prepares graduates to offer holistic and personalized therapeutic services that promote mental health, emotional wellbeing, and social inclusion.

The program typically spans several semesters, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate options tailored to different professional backgrounds and career aspirations. Commitment to diversity and inclusion is central to the program’s ethos, encouraging students to consider cultural dimensions in therapy practice. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to pursue registration or certification with relevant professional bodies, depending on regional requirements.

Overall, the Creative Arts Therapies program at Murdoch University is an innovative and dynamic pathway for students passionate about harnessing creative processes to facilitate healing and personal growth, supported by a vibrant academic community and extensive industry engagement.