Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Creative Arts Therapy
Teaching students the therapeutic use of arts and preparing them for a career in a variety of community, education, and healthcare settings.
Become a Creative Arts
Therapy Professional
The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy prepares students for entry positions in the high demand field of mental health and behavioral health. Students learn how various creative processes (visual arts, music, dance/movement, drama/theater, poetry/writing, etc.) are used as a therapeutic tool for both personal and professional growth. The undergraduate program prepares them for entry-level positions through rigorous academic study, experiential learning, and real-world experiences.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
Total Credits: 120
Outcome: Entry-level employment in community and healthcare settings
Preparing students for a career in a variety of community, education, and healthcare settings through rigorous academic study, experiential learning, and real-world experiences.
Program
Overview
This Creative Arts Therapy program emphasis creative exploration, experiential and service-learning opportunities, and real-world experiences. Under the guidance of faculty, students build the confidence needed to work with diverse populations in a variety of settings. Students also gain leadership skills in the student-led Creative Arts Therapy (CAT) Club that offers on campus workshops and community engagement.
Designed for:
- Students seeking creative entry-level positions
- Those who prefer to explore creative self-expression, in astructured, hands-on learning environment
This program is ideal for students who want to enter the workforce quickly while establishing a strong foundation for personal and professional growth
What
You’ll Learn
Students gain competency in critical thinking, ethical decision making, evidence-based practices, and creative problem-solving to deliver quality services to diverse populations in a variety of settings.
CREATIVE SKILLS
- Develop proficiency in Creative Arts Therapy processes for personal growth and positive self-expression
- Apply therapeutic concepts and principles in a variety of settings, working with diverse populations to support well-being.
Professional & Communication Skills
- Cultivate skills for multiple career pathways including arts facilitation, mental health support, activities coordination, entrepreneurship, and program development in community and clinical settings.
- Demonstrate professionalism and effective communication skills
Critical Thinking & Growth
- Apply evidence-based practices and ethical decision-making
- Engage in lifelong learning and professional development
Curriculum
Overview
The Creative Arts Therapy program balances general education, foundational coursework in the major, with interdisciplinary electives to a total of 120-hours required for graduation
General Education (35 credits)
Required PSYC 101
Major Requirements: (51 credits)
Required
CAT 200 Intro to Creative Arts Therapy (3)
CAT 403 Creative Arts Therapy Internship (3)
CAT 486 Creative Arts Therapy Capstone (3)
Choose 18 hours in Studio Arts
(ART, CAT, MUS, THE, DAN 100-400 level)
or
ENG 260 Intro to Creative Writing
ENG 360 Creative Writing: Poetry
ENG 361 Creative Writing: Fiction
ENG 362 Creative Writing: Non-Fiction
Choose 15 hours in Electives
(CAT 300-400 level or ATC 500 level)
Choose 9 hours in Psychology Electives
All courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for graduation
Career &
Outcomes
The program prepares graduates for entry-level careers in a variety of community, education, and healthcare settings, while supporting personal and professional growth and lifelong learning.
Graduates in the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy are prepared for roles such as:
- Day programs and residential care for children and adults with various abilities and disabilities
- Youth services and educational settings including school-based and after-school programs
- Crisis centers and advocacy services
Graduates learn therapeutic tools to support health and wellness and enrich the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.