Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy

Lesley University’s Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy is designed for students interested in using art modalities such as painting, drawing, and sculpture to assist adults and children in a variety of settings.

A major in Art Therapy prepares students to help individuals who have difficulty expressing their thoughts in words, and those who prefer to work with art to effectively communicate. Graduates of Lesley's Art Therapy program are ready to enter positions in settings such as social service agencies, childcare programs, or specialized school programs within the community.

The Art Therapy major is also designed to prepare students for entry into a professional Master's degree program in Art Therapy and/or Expressive Art Therapies. This major combines pre-professional courses in the human services with substantial coursework in psychology and visual arts.

Student Testimonials

"Lesley had one of the best undergraduate Art Therapy programs in the Boston area. Art has always been a big part of my life. It has been there for me in times ofjoy, sadness, and need. I honestly cannot remember a time not having some form of art present in my youth whether it was dance, visual art, or music. My interest in art only continues to grow stronger as I get older and study more classes with different media. I chose to study Art Therapy because it helped me in the past when I was going through a rough time and I wanted to help people in the same way. Art is a different language and it opens another portal of communication."

- Sam Teperow, Class of 2012

Featured Course

CARTH 4523 Studio-Based Art Therapy

Students will gain an experiential as well as theoretical understanding of studio-based art therapy by actively engaging in art making within the group. A major goal will be to deepen the student's understanding of and comfort with the creative process through their own creative exploration. Readings, group discussions, and processing of the art-making experiences will be utilized.