Application information and requirements for the master of science (M.S.) degree program in art therapy are listed below.
Deadlines
- Application priority deadline: December 15 for fall admission.
- To be considered for merit-based awards, please submit your application by February 1.
Step 1: Apply to the Syracuse University Graduate School
- Three letters of recommendation. Consult online application for details.
- Academic transcript. Unofficial transcript uploaded to the online application. If you are admitted, an official, degree-bearing transcript must be mailed to the University. Applicants must complete a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent in another country) before starting a graduate program.
- Personal statement/essay. Describe in approximately 500 words your main academic interests, why you wish to study for the degree you have chosen, why you wish to study at Syracuse University, how you expect to finance your studies, and your plans after you receive your degree. Upload directly to the online application.
- Upload directly to the online application.
- Application fee. A non-refundable application fee of $75. See online application for details.
- Test scores. The GRE is not required, but scores will be reviewed if submitted.
- Bachelor’s degree in art, art education, psychology, or related field from an accredited institution in the United States or have the equivalent academic preparation from an institution outside of the United States.
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates with prior graduate study must demonstrate a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Completed prerequisite coursework in art and psychology including:
- Studio arts (minimum of 18 semester-hour credits or 27 quarter-hour credits): Includes courses such as design, drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, 3-D design or other electives in studio art.
- Psychology (minimum of 6 semester-hour credits or 9 quarter-hour credits): Must include developmental psychology and abnormal psychology.
- If any of the prerequisite credits have not been earned prior to admission, they must be completed no later than 12 months after beginning the program. Prerequisite credits completed after admission to the program are not counted as credit toward the degree.
Step 2: Submit Your Portfolio
Once you submit your application to the Graduate School, please allow up to three business days for processing. Upon completion, you will receive a confirmation email along with instructions on how to access your portfolio portal.
Submit 15-20 items of your artwork that reflect the strongest selections of your practice via the Syracuse University Applicant Portal. Please adhere to the following guidelines:
- The portfolio should reflect competency in two- and three-dimensional art media. Digital media is acceptable.
- Include a numbered content list at the front of the portfolio.
- Each image should include title, description, size, and medium.
- A variety of media (drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.) is preferred.
Step 3: Complete an Interview
You will be contacted by the Department to schedule your interview. During the personal interview faculty assess the applicant’s learning style against the challenges and demands of a hybrid low-residency model. Students need to be independent learners, comfortable with technology, and must demonstrate writing proficiency. Students must also be able to purchase a variety of art materials and identify a place where they are able to engage in art making on a regular basis to participate fully in course assignments. These requirements are discussed with candidates during the interview process.