Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy
Allied Health
A course by
Whitecliffe College
A one-year postgraduate diploma introducing the theories, practices, and foundational skills of creative arts therapy, preparing students for advanced clinical study or to integrate arts-based therapeutic approaches into their practices.
NZ$11,130
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 1 year
NZ$11,130
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Understand foundational creative arts therapy principles
Gain an introduction to core philosophy, foundational theories, and practices relating to the use of creativity in therapeutic settings.
Apply creative arts methods to support wellbeing
Learn to use creative processes as tools for self-awareness, communication, healing, and personal growth within therapeutic and community contexts.
Develop research and reflective practice skills
Explore and apply research capacities in social contexts, engaging with reflective journaling and group processes.
About This Course
The Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy at Whitecliffe offers a foundation in the philosophy, skills, and theories relating to creative arts therapeutic practice. The programme combines intensive in-person seminar weekends with distance online work and is designed for those wanting to bring arts-based therapeutic methods into workplaces, or as a pathway to the Master of Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical). Graduates gain foundational understanding of how art-making and creativity support wellbeing and healing in diverse communities, and become ready to pursue practice or further advanced study.
Course Content
- Creative Arts Practice – exploring the role of creativity and art-making
- Research Capacities – research in social contexts
- Therapy Capacities – foundational theory in creative arts therapy
- Situated Practice – developing and implementing group sessions
- Arts-based therapeutic approaches: art, movement, drama, storytelling
- Experiential workshops and reflective journals
- Academic coursework and creative studio practice
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate degree or diploma at NZQF Level 7, preferably in a related field (arts, education, psychology, health sciences, social work)
OR: significant experience in a relevant field with demonstrated competencies equivalent to an undergraduate qualification and readiness for Level 8 study
Evidence of academic writing ability
Letter of intent
Three letters of reference
Interview based on application information
Build towards these roles
Creative Arts Therapist AssistantCommunity Arts FacilitatorSupport WorkerMental Health WorkerCounsellorRehabilitation Worker
Build skills in these industries
HealthcareCommunity ServicesAllied HealthMental HealthDisability Services
