MA Art Therapy
The MA Art Therapy at the University of Derby is a comprehensive, practice-based course...
BA (Hons) Creative Expression Arts, Health and Wellbeing
Kedleston Road and Britannia Mill, Derby Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This innovative undergraduate degree equips students with the skills to apply various art forms therapeutically, promoting physical and emotional health across diverse settings. The curriculum emphasizes the development of professional and personal competencies necessary for careers in arts, health, social care, and education sectors. Students engage in practical experiences through work-based learning and community placements, allowing them to apply their creative skills in real-world contexts .
Curriculum: The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes modules such as "The Healthy Practitioner," "Effective Communication," "Human Development and Play," "Working Creatively with Groups," "Arts, Culture and Wellbeing," and "The Creative Self." These courses are designed to foster a deep understanding of how creative arts can be utilized to support health and wellbeing. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in their preferred art form through studio sessions, performances, and exhibitions .
Research Focus: The program encourages exploration of the therapeutic applications of the arts within various cultural, societal, and historical contexts. Students are guided to critically examine the role of creative expression in addressing health and social inequalities. The culmination of the course involves an independent study project, allowing students to conduct scholarly research or develop a practice-led body of work that demonstrates their academic and creative capabilities .
Industry Engagement: A key feature of the program is its strong emphasis on real-world learning. Students participate in placements with partner organizations, including hospitals, hospices, schools, and community groups. These experiences enable students to apply their skills in practical settings, such as leading drama sessions for prison inmates or conducting creative workshops for individuals with brain injuries. Such engagements not only enhance employability but also provide valuable insights into the practical applications of therapeutic arts .
Global Perspective: The University of Derby fosters a global outlook by encouraging students to consider the universal applications of therapeutic arts. Through collaborative projects and exposure to diverse cultural practices, students gain an understanding of how creative expression can transcend cultural boundaries to promote health and wellbeing. This global perspective prepares graduates to work effectively in multicultural environments and to address the needs of diverse populations .
Location
Kedleston Road and Britannia Mill, Derby Campus
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 14900
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Derby offers various scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden of studying abroad and make higher education more accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The University of Derby offers the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for international students. This scholarship provides up to £2,000 for students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs. It is awarded based on academic merit and achievements, recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate potential in their field of study.
International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is designed to assist new international students with their tuition fees. This scholarship offers up to £2,000 for students from specific countries or regions and is awarded to students who meet the academic requirements and demonstrate contributing to the international community at the University of Derby.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general scholarships, the University of Derby offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions. These scholarships aim to support students from countries such as India, China, Nigeria, and many more. The value of these scholarships varies, but they often range from £1,000 to £3,000, depending on the country and the student's academic background.
Alumni Loyalty Discount: The University of Derby offers a special alumni discount for students who have previously studied at the university. International students who have completed a degree or program at Derby and return for further study are eligible for this discount, which helps to reduce the overall cost of their education.
Early Bird Discount: International students who apply early may be eligible for the Early Bird Discount, which provides a reduction in tuition fees for students who accept an offer of admission before a specified deadline. This discount is intended to encourage timely applications and assist students with their planning.
External Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities. The University of Derby provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for scholarships offered by government bodies, organizations, and private foundations in their home countries or internationally.
The BA (Hons) Creative Expression Arts, Health, and Wellbeing program at the University of Derby equips students with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience to pursue a wide range of career options within the creative and health sectors. The integration of arts, health, and wellbeing ensures that graduates are prepared to work in various roles that focus on improving mental and physical health through creative expression.
Arts Therapist: Graduates can pursue a career as an arts therapist, where they use various creative methods (such as visual arts, music, drama, and dance) to support individuals in overcoming emotional and psychological challenges. Arts therapists work with clients in hospitals, mental health settings, schools, and community projects to improve mental health and promote emotional well-being. A background in creative expression arts combined with a solid understanding of health and wellbeing positions graduates well for this role.
Creative Practitioner in Health and Social Care: Graduates can work as creative practitioners within health and social care settings, utilizing art, drama, or other creative activities to enhance patient care, support recovery, and improve quality of life. These professionals work in a variety of environments, including healthcare institutions, rehabilitation centers, elderly care facilities, and community health programs. Their role is vital in supporting the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of individuals using the power of creative activities.
Health and Wellbeing Coordinator: Another viable career path for graduates is becoming a health and wellbeing coordinator in community organizations, public health programs, or non-profit organizations. These professionals design and implement programs that focus on enhancing the health and wellbeing of individuals or communities. They often collaborate with healthcare providers, educators, and social services to create initiatives that promote wellness through arts-based therapies and community engagement projects.
Community Arts Facilitator: Graduates can work as community arts facilitators, leading creative projects that aim to improve community health and cohesion. These professionals organize and facilitate art workshops, performance events, and public art initiatives that address social issues, build community engagement, and promote emotional well-being. Community arts facilitators may work with diverse groups, such as young people, elderly populations, marginalized communities, and individuals with mental health conditions.
Mental Health Support Worker: With an understanding of the psychological benefits of creative practices, graduates may choose to work as mental health support workers. In this role, they provide support to individuals with mental health challenges by using creative activities to promote therapeutic outcomes. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or outreach programs, helping individuals express themselves and improve their mental well-being through art and creativity.
Wellbeing Consultant: Graduates can pursue careers as wellbeing consultants, advising organizations or individuals on how to incorporate creative expression into health and wellness practices. They may work in corporate environments, wellness centers, or private practices, offering guidance on improving employee or client wellbeing through art, mindfulness, and creative activities.
Arts-Based Researcher: For those interested in academia and research, a career as an arts-based researcher is a rewarding option. Graduates can contribute to the growing body of research that links creative practices to health outcomes. They may conduct research on topics such as art therapy, the role of creativity in managing stress, or the impact of arts programs on mental health. These researchers may work in academic settings, healthcare institutions, or research organizations, providing valuable insights into the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.
Arts Educator or Lecturer: Graduates who are passionate about education can pursue a career as an arts educator or lecturer, teaching creative practices in schools, colleges, and universities. As an educator, they can focus on using the arts to teach and inspire students while promoting health and well-being through creative expression. Those with advanced qualifications and a passion for research may also choose to become university lecturers, sharing their expertise in creative arts and health with future generations of students.
Freelance Artist or Creative Practitioner: For those who are entrepreneurial, pursuing a career as a freelance artist or creative practitioner is another viable path. Graduates can offer workshops, therapeutic services, and creative projects independently or in collaboration with other professionals. As freelancers, they have the flexibility to work across a range of sectors, including education, healthcare, and community development, providing creative services that improve individual and collective wellbeing.
Project Manager for Arts-Based Health Initiatives: Graduates can work as project managers in organizations that run arts-based health initiatives. This role involves overseeing creative projects and ensuring that they meet their objectives, budget, and timeline. Project managers work closely with teams of creatives, healthcare professionals, and community groups to ensure the success of arts initiatives that promote mental and physical well-being.
