M.A. in Art Therapy Counseling

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at SIUE, international students should have completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This degree should be in a relevant field related to the chosen postgraduate program.

2. Academic Performance: Prospective postgraduate students should have a minimum academic score of 60% or its equivalent in their undergraduate studies. SIUE considers this as a baseline for eligibility.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is usually required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 120 or higher on the DET is often accepted as proof of English language proficiency.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum PTE score of 53 or higher.

Scholarships for International Students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE):

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SIUE offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. Some of these scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Global Ambassador Scholarship: SIUE's Center for International Programs awards the Global Ambassador Scholarship to a select number of undergraduate international students who have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange on campus.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at SIUE have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waivers. These assistantships may involve research, teaching, or administrative duties and are available in various academic departments.

4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office may provide guidance on finding and applying for such scholarships.

5. International Tuition Waivers: SIUE offers tuition waivers to international students who meet certain criteria. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students.

6. Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students can inquire about scholarships and funding opportunities specific to their academic departments or programs. Many departments offer financial support to exceptional graduate students.

7. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing research-based or teaching-focused programs may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition remission.

8. Fulbright Program: SIUE participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Students from eligible countries can apply for Fulbright scholarships.

9. Cultural Exchange Programs: SIUE may collaborate with cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships for international students. These programs aim to foster international understanding and cultural exchange.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can explore private scholarships offered by foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Art Therapy Counseling program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is a unique and impactful graduate program that blends the fields of art, psychology, and counseling. Graduates of this program are equipped with a specialized skill set that enables them to facilitate healing and personal growth through the creative process.  

1. Art Therapist: Graduates of the M.A. in Art Therapy Counseling program are well-prepared to become licensed art therapists. Art therapists use art as a therapeutic tool to help individuals, including children, adolescents, and adults, express themselves, manage emotions, and address psychological issues. They work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practice.

2. Mental Health Counselor: Many program graduates pursue careers as mental health counselors. They provide counseling services to individuals and groups, helping clients address a wide range of mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. The incorporation of art therapy techniques enhances their counseling approach.

3. School Counselor: Some graduates choose to become school counselors, working in K-12 educational settings. School counselors play a vital role in the academic, social, and emotional development of students. The art therapy background can be particularly beneficial when working with students who face emotional or behavioral challenges.

4. Clinical Supervisor: Experienced art therapists often advance into clinical supervisory roles. They provide guidance and oversight to newer therapists, ensuring that therapy sessions are effective and adhering to ethical standards.

5. Private Practice: Graduates have the option to establish private art therapy counseling practices. This allows them to work independently with clients and develop specialized therapeutic approaches tailored to individual needs.

6. Community Agencies: Non-profit organizations, community centers, and social service agencies often employ art therapists to serve diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, veterans, and those experiencing homelessness.

7. Geriatric Care: Art therapists can work in geriatric care settings, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, helping older adults maintain cognitive function and emotional well-being through creative expression.

8. Research and Education: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in research or education. They may work as university professors, conducting research on the efficacy of art therapy interventions or training future art therapists.

9. Art Education: For those with a background in art, this program opens up opportunities to teach art in schools or community settings while incorporating therapeutic techniques.

10. Advocacy and Outreach: Graduates can become advocates for the field of art therapy, raising awareness of its benefits and advocating for its integration into healthcare and education systems.

11. Hospice and Palliative Care: Art therapists specializing in end-of-life care can work in hospice and palliative care settings, providing emotional support and comfort to patients and their families.

12. Art Studios and Workshops: Some graduates choose to run art studios or workshops that focus on healing and personal growth through art. These spaces serve as community resources for individuals seeking therapeutic outlets.