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Art Education / Art Therapy Major

Students selecting this major also major in Education and seek licensure as a teacher of visual arts (PreK–8, 5–12). A full spectrum of studio courses affords students the development of their personal talents in the visual arts. An assortment of methods, techniques, materials, and philosophies challenge art education / art therapy majors to express themselves to their fullest potential. It is the underlying philosophy of this major that students maturing as art educators have a responsibility to share and lead in developing a better and more meaningful society. This commitment to artistic and social responsibility by the Visual and Performing Arts Department, its faculty, and its students is the essence of the Springfield College humanics philosophy.

Graduates in this major have the professional preparation necessary to work with traditional populations in schools and with people of all ages. Through art therapy, the therapist provides an opportunity for nonverbal expression and communication, which can promote a reconciliation of emotional conflicts and foster self-awareness and personal growth.

Graduates are prepared for work in a variety of settings: alternative schools, public schools, hospitals and clinics, community mental health centers, geriatric centers, drug and alcohol clinics, nursing homes, halfway houses, prisons, and rationale schools. Some may choose to work in private or public schools and institutions for emotional problems, learning differences, developmental delays, brain damage, deafness, vision impairments, physically challenged, and disabled children.

The curriculum prepares students for a career as a teacher of visual arts. Additionally, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for graduate study in the art therapy field. Students wishing to become registered art therapists by the American Art Therapy Association must obtain a graduate degree.

For more information about the art therapy major contact Dr. Simone Alter-Muri at (413) 748-3752 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.