Program Overview
If you’re drawn to helping people manage their emotions and wellbeing, and art is one of your personal interests, then explore the transformative impact of art therapy through our undergraduate art therapy program.
In the classroom, you’ll learn how to use art materials and techniques to help improve people’s self-esteem, wellbeing and personal development. Through field work in the community, you’ll be introduced to organizations that work with people experiencing various illnesses, trauma or other life challenges. You will witness and participate in the application of art therapy practices through supervised, hands-on experiences. Additional courses in studio art, art history and psychology will challenge and enhance your discipline-specific skills and knowledge.
Students completing the Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy graduate with resume-enhancing practical experience and are fully prepared to work in the mental health field or apply for advanced degrees in art therapy or counseling.
Unique Program
One of the few undergraduate art therapy programs in the Midwest and the only one in the Universities of Wisconsin.
Internships & Service-Learning Activities
Ample opportunities for off-campus internships and service-learning activities.
Amazing Fine Arts Facilities
Holden Fine Arts Center features spacious art studios and two art galleries.
What You’ll Learn
Combine creativity and compassion while exploring how art can support emotional wellbeing, personal growth and healing. You’ll develop skills in both studio art and psychology while learning how to use creative expression as a tool to help others.
You’ll develop skills in:
- Art therapy theories and practices
- Psychology, human development and wellbeing
- Color theory and creative expression
- Studio art techniques and visual communication
- Building therapeutic connections through art
- Self-awareness, reflection and problem-solving
Through coursework, field experiences and supervised internships, you’ll gain hands-on experience applying art therapy practices in real-world settings. You’ll build the artistic, interpersonal and professional skills needed for careers in mental health fields or continued study in art therapy and counseling.
I feel like I actually got more opportunities at UWS than I would have at a larger university. My art and design professors knew me well and were so supportive. They helped me in so many ways.
All the activities we do are hands-on, and our professor ensures that we can all work together to achieve a better outcome. I feel that I’ve developed a well-rounded career at UWS, and my education has been thorough. I’m confident that I’ll succeed in grad school.
Galleries
The Experimental Gallery is a recently redesigned space created to showcase student, faculty and community exhibitions to visitors and the UW-Superior community. Just past the entrance to the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center, the viewing windows allow art to be enjoyed at any time and is a reminder that art should be accessible and available to all.
The Kruk Gallery provides a flexible, contemporary gallery space for art exhibits. Alumni and other professional artists’ work is displayed throughout the year. The Kruk Gallery is an important contributor and connector to the vibrant art culture in the Twin Ports.
Program Outcomes/Career Opportunities
UW-Superior’s undergraduate art therapy program will prepare you for a career in mental health care. You’ll be ready to serve in a variety of positions working with children, adolescents, adults or geriatrics on an individual or group basis, in settings such as:
- Hospitals
- Community health centers
- Residential treatment homes
- Correctional facilities
- Development centers
Apply or Get Started Today
Applying to UW-Superior is easy and free for undergraduate students. Once your application is submitted, you’ll hear from us within just a few days. We’re here to help you every step of the way with any questions you may have, so why wait? Start your application today.
Interested in Graduate Programs?
Visit our graduate programs page to find the program that’s right for you.
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