Master of Science in Arts Therapy

Art therapy uses visual and symbolic expression to circumvent the limitations of language, giving voice to experiences and providing opportunities to understand complex situations, illuminate new questions, and create alternative and innovative solutions to problems.Art therapy uses visual and symbolic expression to circumvent the limitations of language, giving voice to experiences and providing opportunities to understand complex situations, illuminate new questions, and create alternative and innovative solutions to problems.

Our 60-credit master of science (M.S.) in art therapy is a hybrid program that engages students in an integrated approach to learning that includes two on-campus residencies and participation in a dynamic online learning environment.

Experiential learning is employed throughout the curriculum to support students engagement with academic material while providing opportunities to use the tools of the trade to integrate theory with practice as students prepare for clinical art therapy practice.

Bachelor's degree in art, art education, psychology, or related field from an accredited institution in the United States or have the equivalent academic preparation from an institution outside of the United States.
Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates with prior graduate study must demonstrate a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Completed prerequisite coursework in art and psychology including:
Studio arts (minimum of 18 semester-hour credits or 27 quarter-hour credits): Includes courses such as design, drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, 3-D design or other electives in studio art.
Psychology (minimum of 12 semester-hour credits or 18 quarter-hour credits): Must include developmental psychology and abnormal psychology. Can also include general psychology, personality, or electives in psychology.
If any of the prerequisite credits have not been earned prior to admission, they must be completed no later than 12 months after beginning the program. Prerequisite credits completed after admission to the program are not counted as credit toward the degree.

Academic transcript. Unofficial transcript uploaded to the online application. If you are admitted, an official, degree-bearing transcript must be mailed to the University. Applicants must complete a U.S. bachelor's degree (or its equivalent in another country) before starting a graduate program.
Three letters of recommendation. Consult online application for details.
Submit an artwork portfolio that includes 15-20 images in at least three studio areas confirming a range of media competence and creativity including: work in two-dimensions, three-dimensions, and color. Refer to the bottom of this page for portfolio submission information and requirements.
Personal statement. Describe in approximately 500 words your main academic interests, why you wish to study for the degree you have chosen, why you wish to study at Syracuse University, how you expect to finance your studies, and your plans for the future after you receive your degree. Upload directly to the online application.
Academic writing sample. Include a sample of strong academic writing (no more than 10 pages), which should be uploaded directly to the online application.
Resume. Upload directly to the online application.

The recommended minimum TOEFL score required on the internet-based (iBT) test is 90
The minimum IELTS score is 6.5