GW Columbian College of Arts & Sciences - Art Therapy
At the George Washington University, students in our MA in Art Therapy program learn from and work with top scholars and practitioners in the field. Each student cultivates their unique identity as an art therapist while gaining the experience they need to make a difference in people's lives.
Why Art Therapy at GW?
In-House Clinical Experience
In the GW Art Therapy Clinic, students give back to the local community while gaining clinical experience alongside faculty who are credentialed art therapists.
Comprehensive Trauma Training
Our program enables students to study trauma theories and techniques in the classroom and then apply those lessons to real-life client work in the clinic.
Professional Licensure Preparation
Students complete nearly 1,000 hours of clinical training, many of which may be applied toward professional licensure in art therapy after graduation.
Internship Opportunities
We partner with more than 100 internship sites in the D.C. area and abroad enabling students to work with diverse populations in psychiatric, educational and medical settings.
About the Program
One of the first of its kind in the United States, the Master of Arts in Art Therapy program at GW combines therapy and counseling studies with training in drawing, painting and sculpture.
In our state-of-the-art space, students gain effective research and evaluation methodologies, clinical skills and studio expertise all within a diverse, integrative and culturally responsive format.
Graduates are prepared for credentialing as Registered Art Therapists with the Art Therapy Credentials Board, as well as state licensure in art therapy and counseling.
Our program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), as reviewed by the Accreditation Council for Art Therapy Education.
"Initially, I was drawn to the location and the huge networking and internship opportunities that come along with being in the nation's capital. But it was really the emphasis on trauma care and study abroad that set GW apart and really solidified my decision. I was blown away by the power of art therapy to transcend language and cultural barriers and offer healing."
Adrienne Stamper
Art Therapy, MA '17