What is the deadline for submitting the application?
The preferred application deadline for the fall semester is August 15 and for the spring semester is January 15. All others will be reviewed based on available space.
What should I include in the portfolio?
We request that you include 12-15 pieces in a variety of media, particularly drawing, painting and 3D work. You may submit your portfolio in digital format or bring original work or a USB with you at the time of your interview.
I do not have all the prerequisites to enter the program. What should I do?
Students may be admitted conditionally and begin the program while completing some undergraduate prerequisites within the first 12 months in the program. This decision is made upon meeting with and at the discretion of the program director.
What is the theoretical approach of Hofstra's Creative Arts Therapy Counseling program?
Since art therapy is on a large continuum from "art as therapy" to "art psychotherapy," across the lifespan, and with a variety of populations and locations, Hofstra believes that students should be exposed to all theoretical approaches. This allows each student to choose which approach(es) fit best into their developing art therapy identity. Our faculty comes from diverse backgrounds and professional experiences, and we offer a variety of field placements with a number of diverse focuses. Students can concentrate on a specific theoretical approach or population in their electives and field placement or choose to experience a variety of areas.
How does a student choose a plan of study?
We know that no two students are alike. Every student who enters the Creative Arts Therapy Counseling program will be assigned one of the full-time faculty as an academic advisor. Together, the student and advisor will discuss the interests and needs of the student, including registration, elective selection, field placements, completion time frame, etc., and develop a personal plan of study for the student to follow.
What kinds of electives are offered in the program?
We offer diverse electives that expose students to a variety of expressive therapies and specific populations to enhance the art therapy process. This includes music therapy, dance therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, art therapy with grief and loss, art therapy with elders, art therapy from a neurological perspective, as well as a study abroad option in Ireland.
How are internships chosen, and what kind of experience will I attain during the internship?
The internship placement process is a collaboration between the program's practicum/internship coordinator and the student. Together, populations and facilities of interest are identified, and students are then encouraged to contact the site supervisor to set up an interview and solidify placement. The coordinator works closely with the student to assure a placement is appropriately secured.