PhD in Art Therapy/Therapist (PhD)

Tuition is Tuition is $48,510 per year for domestic students and $49,980 per year for international students..

This programme prepares experienced art therapists for leadership roles in clinical practice, supervision, and education. Students complete advanced coursework and a 700-hour doctoral internship in real-world settings. The program emphasizes research, ethical practice, and social responsibility through a fully online format. It is designed for professionals who wish to advance the field without interrupting their careers.

Focus areas include Clinical Supervision, Art Therapy Research, Community Engagement, Neuroaesthetics, Trauma-Informed Care, Art Therapy Pedagogy.

The programme requires 60 credits, including core courses, four electives, a 700-hour doctoral internship across three semesters, and a dissertation. The internship and seminar sequence integrates clinical practice with scholarly research.

Graduates pursue careers as clinical supervisors, educators, researchers, and leaders in healthcare, schools, and community organizations.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in art therapy or a related mental health field from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Proof of art therapist registration or 18 studio credit hours is required. A portfolio of 15 original artworks and a statement of intent are also required.

The programme totals about 60 credit hours. Fully online, full-time or part-time; three-year duration for full-time study. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes.

Adler University carries forward the work of Alfred Adler, the physician and psychotherapist who founded Individual Psychology. Adler connected health with social conditions and placed community, prevention, and population health at the centre of psychological thought. His ideas about social interest, cooperation, belonging, and shared responsibility continue to shape the University’s educational mission.

Graduate study focuses on psychology, counselling, and mental health, with programs designed for careers across behavioural health and related sectors. Chicago students can study Couple and Family Therapy, while other programs are available online or at the Vancouver campus. Coursework combines evidence-based learning with applied practice. Depending on the program, students may complete supervised practice, practicums, internships, or community-based work. Faculty bring academic and professional experience into the classroom, and career support helps students build skills and professional networks.

Adler is an international graduate university with in-person, online, and hybrid formats. Chicago students can access housing and relocation guidance, transportation information, mental health and disability support, daily-essentials assistance, and on-campus employment opportunities. Student organizations, events, and community partnerships provide ways to connect beyond coursework. The University also works with community partners through clinical practica and direct service, giving students opportunities to apply their learning with people and organizations. International applicants should review the requirements and format of their chosen graduate program when planning their studies.