West Liberty University's Art Therapy Program Named Most Affordable
News related to:West Liberty University · 2 min read
West Liberty University's Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling program has been named the most affordable in the United States by Forbes Advisor. This recognition highlights the university's commitment to making higher education accessible to a broader range of students.
According to Forbes Advisor, the program costs an estimated $31,620 for both in-state and out-of-state students, a figure that remains consistent for online learners. This affordability is particularly significant for those seeking a career in the high-demand field of mental health and behavioral health, where the dual credentials provided by the program can be highly valuable.
Dr. Susan Ridley, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department for Art Therapy and Counseling at West Liberty University, emphasized the university's dedication to affordability and accessibility.
The M.A. in Art Therapy and Counseling program is designed for working professionals and is offered 100% virtually through synchronous Zoom and online evening classes. Students can complete the required in-person practicum at their workplace, if appropriate. This flexibility allows students to balance their professional and academic commitments effectively.
The program consists of a 60-credit-hour degree, with 51 credit hours dedicated to coursework and 3 credit hours allocated to supervised practicum. Additionally, students must complete 6 credit hours of supervised professional internship. Each fall, students participate in a 3-day virtual residency, and all classes for the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters are completed through synchronous Zoom and online classes.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared to pursue professional certifications such as Art Therapist Registered (ATR) and state licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in West Virginia and other states. Postgraduate supervision hours and successfully passing exams are required for professional certification and licensure.
Forbes Advisor's education editors provide unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps, and career paths. Their ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics, education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies content in making the rankings.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels.