Master of Arts in Counseling and Art Therapy From the Director

Dear Prospective Student:

Have you been searching for a career that combines your desire to help others with your passion for the healing value of creativity and art making? The CACREP- and CAAHEP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling and Art Therapy Program at Ursuline will enable you to combine those interests in a unique professional program and will prepare you to be eligible for both licensure as professional clinical mental health counselor and credentialing as an art therapist.

The program’s philosophy incorporates a broad range of theoretical approaches, and the development of your professional identity and theoretical approach is stressed. Service-learning trips that allow for immersion experiences in various countries are offered yearly, and a mentoring program to support you as you adjust to your role as a graduate student and emerging professional is available.

You will study in active, collaborative classes in a new state-of-the-art facility equipped with classrooms, studio, and observation/taping areas. Core faculty members, who are experienced counselors and art therapists with expertise in a variety of specializations – along with several adjuncts, supervisors, and other outside experts – will contribute to your learning and professional development.

The program is based on an eight-semester model with spring, summer and fall starts, as well as spring, summer, and fall graduation. The extra time is needed in order to fully prepare you for the dual credentialing in both counseling and art therapy, but individual slower pacing is also available. Some students move quickly through the program, while others who have multiple responsibilities such as family and work, may take the time they need without overloading themselves.

The employment rate of graduates has remained near 100% for the past several years, with most reporting positive placement at the time of graduation, and in follow-up surveys. In 2023-2024, 94% passed the CPCE practice exam, and 89% of graduates passed the NCE on the first attempt in 2023, both above national averages. There were 77 students actively enrolled during 2023-2024. The program had 24 graduates, 83% of whom graduated within 3 years (full-time status) and 96% had graduated within 4.5 years.

We hope you consider Ursuline as you pursue your career goals, and please do contact us with any questions you many have. I hold information sessions multiple times throughout the year, and we welcome your attendance and visit to Ursuline! Contact the Office of Graduate Admission graduateadmissions@ursuline.edu or call the office at 440.646.8119 for information.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Miller, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, ATCS

Assistant Professor and Program Director

Counseling and Art Therapy 2024-2025 Student Handbook