Online Art Therapy Degree
Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy Online
Program Overview
Naropa’s online BA in Art Therapy combines each student’s artistic process with the study of traditional and Eastern psychology. Naropa’s deeply mindful approach will help students grow as artists as they explore the healing power of art.
Naropa’s is the only Buddhist-inspired accredited university in the country that offers an enriching curriculum grounded in art therapy, visual arts, contemplative psychology, and studio practice.
The Art Therapy program is dedicated to innovation in the artistic process and in approaches to teaching the psychology of transformative art therapy.
Community Engagement
Contemplative Education
Naropa’s holistic education puts mindfulness at the core of its curriculum. This valuable tool approaches art, relationships, and self-knowledge through courses like Buddhist Psychology and Contemplative Ceramics.
Mentorship Opportunities
A graduate mentor will guide you through your major in art therapy, serving as a sounding board, coach, and support. Naropa’s art therapy mentorship program prepares undergraduates for both their near and far future.
Quick Facts
- Online Degree
- 51 Credit Hours
- 2 Transformative Capstone experiences
- 8 Unique Milestone Courses
- Scholarship and Financial Aid Opportunities
- Opportunities for Mentorship and Career Guidelines
- Admissions open for 2024
Program Format
Naropa University’s undergraduate program is a four-year, fully accredited Bachelor of Arts program. The Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy online is a remote 51-credit major, which consists of an in-depth liberal arts education, with both traditional and progressive approaches to the behavioral sciences taught by expert faculty. The art therapy degree online blends the intellectual and experiential traditions of Eastern and Western perspectives. Students will also delve into a strong introduction to art theory, visual arts studio education, and community-based service learning opportunities.
The program cultivates an educational and experiential foundation to go deeper into art therapy by continuing your education in Naropa’s Graduate School concentration in Transpersonal Contemplative Art–Based Counseling or another art therapy graduate program.
Course Spotlight
Art Therapy Theory & Applications
This course provides a comprehensive overview of art therapy’s literature, theories, and practices across diverse client groups. Students explore relevant topics addressing art therapy’s role in mental health, expressive therapies, and community-based settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding the art therapist’s role and responsibilities. A significant focus is placed on nurturing students’ personal commitment to exploring their own creative processes.
Degree
Requirements
A Bachelor of Arts degree (120 credits), consists of a Core Curriculum (24 credits) and at least one major, as well as minors and/or elective courses of the student’s choosing.
The Online Art Therapy Major has 51 credit hours.
Online Art Therapy Major Requirements
Gateway
COR-110E Writing: Thinking and Being(3)
COR-340E Capstone I(3)
3-D Design: Choose 3 Credits
ART-371E Installation and Ritual(3)
ART-365E Handbuilding and Ritual in Ceramics(3)
Drawing & Perception: Choose 3 Credits
ART-125E Introduction to Drawing(3)
ART-200E The Contemplative Artist(3)
Painting: Choose 3 Credits
ART-215E Watercolor(3)
ART-245E Introduction to Painting: Realism(3)
Art History: Choose 3 Credits
ART-301E Reconceptualizing Art History(3)
ART-340E Contemporary Art History 1945 to Present(3)
Milestone
ATH-330E Art Therapy Theory & Applications(3)
ATH-430E Art Therapy: Studio Methods(3)
PSYB-314E Psychology of Mindfulness Meditation(3)
PSYB-325E Awakening Compassion: Working with Others(3)
PSYB-345E Developmental Psychology(3)
PSYB-371E Personality Theories(3)
PSYB-415E Maitri: Working With Emotions(3)
PSYB-420E Psychopathology(3)
Capstone
ART-440E Warrior Artist: Risk and Revelation in Studio Art(3)
COR-440E Capstone II(3)
Additional Required by All Students: Core
ART-440E Warrior Artist: Risk and Revelation in Studio Art(3)
COR-440E Capstone II(3)
Why Choose Naropa?
Introspective Approach
Naropa's online art therapy degree acknowledges the importance of the heart and spirit in addition to the mind. The deeply introspective undergraduate curriculum is designed to promote healing for students, their prospective clients, and the global community.
Internship Opportunities
Having a remote education does not mean fewer opportunities at Naropa. We offer internship placements for remote undergraduate students within their communities, where they can collaborate to deliver socially impactful education in art therapy. For graduates, the Internship is a powerful, collaborative opportunity to synthesize their contemplative art therapy education.
Online Accessibility
Naropa offers students across the country and all over the world the chance to get a Bachelor of Arts without having to leave home. You will explore the healing power of art by creating your own vibrant, at-home studio with our art therapy degree online.
How this Program Prepares You
Solid Foundation
Students in this program gain a strong foundation, paving the way for a comprehensive undergraduate understanding of art therapy, the therapeutic qualities of art, and experiential appreciation for contemplative studies related to art, psychology, and social needs.
Welcoming Community
As one of the country’s few undergraduate art therapy programs paired with a graduate art therapy program, the Bachelor of Arts in Art Therapy Online holds a distinctive position, offering valuable mentorship opportunities. A dedicated graduate mentor will guide you on your journey through contemplative art therapy, serving as a sounding board, coach, and unwavering support.
Career Readiness
Naropa internships help you develop your professional experience and performance by providing unique opportunities to engage with your home communities.
After finishing their senior internship, 43% of students with a bachelor’s degree in art therapy secure employment.
What You'll Learn
Foundation in Studio Art Therapy
Follow in the footsteps of art therapy pioneers.
Preparation for Advanced Studies
Experience thoughtful guidance that propels you ahead in your graduate studies.
Mindfulness
Learn to practice introspection in order to help others.
Self-Awareness as an Artist
Foster self-assurance and integrity in your roles as both an artist and an art therapist.
Relational Skills
Refine communication skills through hands-on learning in diverse settings.
Career Opportunities with a Art Therapy Degree Online
Graduates of Naropa’s Art Therapy degree online will be able to choose from different career paths. They will be prepared to pursue a master’s degree in studio art, art therapy, counseling and mental health fields, as well as careers as art instructors, caseworkers, art coaches, mental health workers, recreation specialists, and more. In addition, the knowledge of art therapy and visual literacy learned in the program can prove beneficial in various professional spheres, including marketing, human resources, journalism, and both web and product design fields.
- Art Therapist: use art for emotional expression and mental health support.
- Curator: organize and showcase artworks in museums or galleries.
- Art Director: ensure visual excellence in projects like advertising, film, or publications.
- Craft Artist: create unique handmade objects.
- Commercial and Industrial Designer: create innovative and practical product designs.
- Art/Drama/Music Teacher: educate and inspire students in the creative arts.
- Set and Exhibit Designer: create visually captivating environments for events or exhibitions.
- Fine Artist: create unique visual art pieces.
Jennifer "Fern" Deininger
Hear from a Graduate
I know that when I finish the [art therapy] program here at Naropa, I will be set up for and have a lot of advantages when entering grad school.
FAQs About the
Art Therapy Degree Online
What can you do with an online art therapy degree?
What is the difference between the online art therapy program and the on-campus program?
Which art therapies will I learn during my studies?
What sets Naropa’s online art therapy degree apart from other programs?
Learn More About the Program
Connect
with your counselor
Rachel Thompson
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Prospective students with last names A-G
- 303-970-9831
- rachel.thompson@naropa.edu
- Schedule Appointment
Connect
with your counselor
Jenna Priest
Prospective students last names H-Z
Ready to Apply?
Admission Requirements
Academic excellence and the willingness to carry out introspective work are highly valued at Naropa University.
Learn more about admission requirements and the application process for first-time and transfer students.
Undergraduate Students
Students with a 3.0 GPA or Higher
Applicants with a strong academic record are welcome with minimal requirements.Students with Less than 3.0 GPA
If your academic record hasn’t been the strongest, but you wish to apply to Naropa, we strongly encourage you to submit your application. Contemplative practice matters to us just as much as academic excellence.Transfer previous college credit
We allow you to transfer 60 or more credits from previous institutions. Apply as a transfer student by submitting an official college transcript as part of your application.
Discover all requirements for first-time and transfer students at our admission requirements page.
International Students
Embracing a culture of inclusion and diversity, Naropa University warmly welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures, regardless of their origins.
We eagerly anticipate the distinct contributions you will make to our vibrant and friendly community.
Explore further information on the application and admission process for international students.
Costs and Financial Aid
Naropa University strives to improve access to education for a broad spectrum of students. Visit our page on undergraduate expenses and financial support to discover information about tuition, grants, scholarships, and available financial aid options.
Our cost calculator can help you estimate your potential expenses during your time at Naropa.
Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities
