In the spirit of continually expanding opportunities for prospective students and alumni, and building upon an increasingly popular program, Adler University is poised to begin offering a new doctoral degree.
Admissions counselors are now accepting applications for the Doctor of Philosophy in Art Therapy program – an expansion of the current master of arts offering — for enrollment in fall 2018. Pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission, the new program joins just a few of its kind in the U.S.
Coursework focuses on preparing students who hold master’s degrees in art therapy to lead in the field as senior-level researchers, administrators, educators, clinical supervisors, and above all, socially responsible practitioners committed to healthy communities.
Curriculum is designed to be completed in three years of full-time study; though, part-time options are available. The immersive learning opportunity is headquartered at the university’s state-of-the-art downtown Chicago campus. Graduates will gain real-world experience, backgrounds heavily rooted in research, and the intellectual curiosity necessary to think deeply about human creative expression.
Distinguishing the doctorate is a focus on research excellence; an emphasis on Adlerian principles; a diverse and renowned team of faculty members; the completion of a dissertation; and a unique Social Justice Practicum (SJP) that helps students cultivate skills to become agents of social change. Extensive field training includes a 700-hour art therapy internship focused on clinical work and principles for settings such as schools, mental health centers, and community organizations.
Graduates of the program will be eligible to apply for the following licensures:
- Registration as an art therapist through the American Art Therapy Association (AATA)
- The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in the state of Illinois
- The Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credential in Illinois
- The National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential, as well as sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
Students interested in applying for licensure outside of Illinois should work with their faculty advisors to plan their curriculum accordingly.
All prospective students should expect a program environment characterized by Adlerian encouragement, empathy, genuine care, and good will — all with the expressed purpose of supporting their personal and professional growth.
Explore Adler University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Art Therapy program page for additional details, or to request information.