Skip to main content
Panoramic collage of university campus architecture

Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical)

Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design, New Zealand
Save

Course Overview

The Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical) program at Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design is a professional training program that prepares students to become creative arts therapists. The program focuses on the practical application of creative arts therapy techniques in clinical settings, with an emphasis on evidence-based practice and cultural sensitivity. Students will learn how to use various forms of creative expression, such as art, music, drama, and writing, to facilitate healing and personal growth for individuals across the lifespan. The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career as a creative arts therapist in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community organizations.

Additional Information

The program is designed to be completed in 2-3 years of full-time study. Students will complete coursework, practicum placements, and a final research project. The program is accredited by the Australian Counseling Association and meets the requirements for registration as a creative arts therapist with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Discover Your Passion for Creative Arts Therapy at Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design

Whitecliffe College of Arts & Design is an ideal place to study creative arts therapy due to its strong focus on practical application and cultural sensitivity. The program is taught by experienced practitioners who are passionate about the field and committed to helping students achieve their full potential. The college's location in Sydney provides access to a diverse range of cultural and artistic opportunities, which will enrich the student's learning experience.

Why You Should Study This Course

Creative Arts Therapy differs from traditional art-making or performance in that the emphasis expands to include attention to the processes of creating and meaning-making. Arts Therapists work with individuals and groups by developing a therapeutic relationship with their client/s with clear boundaries, treatment plans, and outcomes to assist them in their healing. Within this therapeutic relationship, creative expression can have significant impact on the healing process for all people including those experiencing trauma, addictions, and psychological or emotional problems.

Whitecliffe Creative Arts Therapy graduates combine their passion for creativity and for working with others to enhance well-being. They develop the confidence to contribute to this dynamic, emerging field of Creative Arts Therapy, harnessing their own experience and interests to pioneer new frontiers in this rapidly expanding profession.

General Eligibility

Eligibility for entrance into the Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical)

Please note we do not accept direct applications for the Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical) programme. All students must complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy programme as part of their learning path into the Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical).

What You'll Study

1 Course Modules

The Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical) (MACAT) is a two-year, full-time programme that is currently offered in Auckland only. The seminar pattern involves six intensive seminars during the first year and four during the second year of study.

The Three Inter-related Elements of the MACAT Programme

Intensive weekend and four to five day seminars are held between four and six times annually to enable students to:

  • Engage in theoretical and experiential learning with faculty, peers, and local and international practitioners

  • Participate in group processes and self-reflexive practices

  • Build clinical, research, and presentation skills

Research Project

In the final year of study, students complete an independent research project supported by a research supervisor.

Supervised Practice

Students must complete 750 hours of supervised clinical practice to successfully complete the MACAT and be eligible for professional registration with the regional professional body, the Australian, New Zealand, and Asian Creative Arts Therapy Association (ANZACATA). This is achieved during the final 18-month period of study via placements that involve work with real-world clients and populations. Students are encouraged to seek out a variety of placement opportunities, assisted by faculty. External Arts Therapy supervision is funded by Whitecliffe.

To complete the Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical), students must complete three years of full-time (including the embedded PGDipCAT) study through blended, low-residency delivery. In addition to the papers listed for the PGDipCAT, the MACAT comprises the following papers:

  • Arts Psychotherapy

  • Research and Arts Therapy

  • Professional Practice (Training and Supervision)

  • Research Preparation and Research Project

  • Placement

Language Requirement

  • IELTS6.0
  • TOEFL78
  • PTE58
  • Duolingo79

IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 or equivalent

Ready to get started?

For any enquiries or further details, please don't hesitate to contact us. Let's take the next step in your academic journey together.

Contact Us
Call
WhatsApp
Email