With an art therapy major, you’ll learn to use the lens of art and imagination to promote health and wellness in a variety of roles.
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Interested in learning more about Bethel's art therapy major?
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They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By majoring in art therapy, you’ll develop the skills to merge your love of art with a call to serve others.
Hands-on artistic skills
You’ll gain practical skills and experience in painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, photography, graphic design techniques, and more.
Therapeutic design
Learn to design tailored learning experiences, particularly focused on integrating art into therapeutic practices during fieldwork for art therapy placements.
Interdisciplinary insight
Gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology, healthcare, and education fundamentals, enabling you to seamlessly integrate art into healing modalities for diverse populations.
Healthcare knowledge
Acquire experience and skills around the broader healthcare environment, preparing you to work confidently in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other medical contexts as an art therapist.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, study abroad, apply what you’ve learned, and gain. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Internships
Explore internships in clinical settings, hospitals, elder care and hospice, schools, and more. You can also showcase your work in campus galleries, local art shows, and community events, further establishing yourself as a skilled artist.
Awards and recognition
Showcase your talent and earn accolades at the annual Raspberry Monday spring student art exhibition, where the art department presents students with monetary awards for outstanding work. Your creative endeavors will be celebrated and acknowledged, providing you with valuable recognition within the artistic community.
Study abroad
Expand your artistic horizons and immerse yourself in diverse cultures through study abroad programs over a full semester, January, or summer. Explore artistic histories and traditions while gaining invaluable international perspectives in countries such as Italy, Germany, India, Guatemala, and more. These experiences will enrich your artistic practice and broaden your worldview.
Real-world impact
What can I do with an art therapy degree?
Graduates of Bethel's non-licensure art therapy program are fully equipped to go on to pursue graduate school or explore related pathways.
Clinical settings
You can use your skills to work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and treatment centers to provide art therapy services and promote mental wellness.
Educational institutions
Become an art educator or school counselor, integrating art therapy techniques to support students’ emotional and psychological development.
Residential and private practice
You can work as a licensed art therapist in residential treatment centers or private practice, offering therapeutic services to clients.
Community agencies
Work in children’s agencies, violence shelters, and correctional facilities to offer art therapy services to individuals in need.
Graduate school
You’ll have all the requirements to pursue an advanced degree in specialized areas of art therapy along with other areas like psychology, education, and healthcare.
Skills for any field
You’ll be prepared to serve in many jobs, as recent graduates work as arts administrators, curators, creative marketers, photographers, and more.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success. Professors are accessible between classes, and you’ll often find fellow students gathered or studying nearby.
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
Explore the full lists: