The Visual Art Studies Program offers a unique and intriguing synthesis of art history, curatorial studies, and studio art, laying a broad and solid foundation in the theory and practice of  the visual arts. Graduates earn a globally recognized degree, accredited in the US and EU, in just three years.

The Art Therapy concentration is designed for students who want to combine creativity with care, self-discovery, and real-world impact. It sits within the BA in Visual Art Studies (VAS) and blends studio-based art practice, psychology, and reflective learning into a truly experiential learning program.

From day one, students make art, reflect on process, and learn how creativity supports their own and others’ wellbeing. Classes are small, interactive, and studio-centred, creating a safe, supportive environment where students learn through hands-on experience, discussion, and guided practice rather than passive lectures.

This is not about memorising theory, it’s about working with materials, people, emotions, and meaning.

Highlights:

• Combine creative practice with wellbeing, reflection, and care
• Learn through hands-on studio work, not passive lectures
• Make art from day one, using materials used in art therapy
• Study in small, supportive classes designed for trust and dialogue
• Explore the connection between art, emotion, body, and identity
• Integrate psychology and humanities into creative practice
• Learn how art supports wellbeing in schools and community settings
• Develop ethical awareness when working with emotionally sensitive material
• Collaborate in Creative Studios with students from other disciplines
• Graduate with practical experience and a strong creative portfolio

Learning Outcomes:

• Use artmaking as a tool for wellbeing, reflection, and communication
• Design and explain arts-based wellbeing activities for non-clinical settings
• Work confidently with artistic materials in emotionally sensitive contexts
• Reflect ethically and responsibly on creative processes involving self and others
• Understand psychological concepts related to development, emotion, and mental health
• Integrate studio practice with self-reflection and theory
• Prepare for graduate study or professional roles in art therapy, education, community arts, or psychology-related fields

Graduates leave with practical experience, emotional awareness, and a strong creative portfolio along with clarity about their future professional direction.

Internship opportunities are likewise available to VAS graduates within organizations such as Kunsthalle, DOX Centre for Contemporary Art , Meetfactory, and others.

Career Prospects:

• Art therapist (or further graduate study towards qualification as an art therapist in countries where the profession is regulated)
• Creative arts facilitator / workshop leader
• Community arts program coordinator
• Rehabilitation / wellness art facilitator
• School art therapy practitioner (non-clinical)
• Art-based social intervention specialist
• Youth and community development worker
• Mental wellbeing program assistant
• Creative support worker (community services)
• Life skills and resilience facilitator
• Support specialist in educational settings
• Cultural program coordinator
• Arts and culture outreach specialist
• Media and community engagement associate
• Public arts developer / curator assistant
• And more!