The University of Auckland is New?Zealand’s largest and most international university, ranked highly in global university rankings and known for its research?led teaching, diverse student community, and strong international reputation. It attracts students from over 120 countries and provides extensive student support services including academic advising, wellbeing support, career services, and specialised help for international students.

 

Auckland is a vibrant, multicultural city offering students a mix of urban opportunities and natural beauty — beaches, parks, and a relaxed lifestyle — making it an appealing destination for study abroad.

 

Why Study Master of Creative Arts Therapy at Auckland?

Creative Arts Therapy is an emerging clinical and wellbeing field that uses the arts (such as visual art, music, drama and dance) in therapeutic practice. The Master of Creative Arts Therapy at Auckland is designed to develop clinical reasoning, therapeutic skills, research capability and creative practice, preparing graduates for professional registration and careers in arts?based therapy in health, education, community and clinical settings.

Key Highlights

• Integrates creative arts practice with therapy theory and clinical reasoning.

• Offers supervised practicum placements to build real?world clinical experience.

• Allows specialisation across modalities like visual arts, music, drama and dance.

• Prepares graduates for professional registration and careers in wellbeing, rehabilitation, community service and therapeutic practice both in Aotearoa NZ and internationally.

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

The Master of Creative Arts Therapy combines:

Creative & Clinical Courses

• Courses CREAT 700–709 covering theory, methods and applied creative arts therapy practice.

• Supervised Practicums embedded in therapeutic placements to apply clinical reasoning in real settings.

• Research Project such as CREAT 790 to explore an area of clinical interest, reflective practice, or therapeutic innovation.

Specialisation Pathways

Students can develop expertise in creative arts modalities such as:

• Visual Arts Therapy

• Music Therapy

• Drama Therapy

• Dance or Movement Therapy

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for roles such as:

• Creative Arts Therapist in health, community, educational or rehabilitation settings.

• Clinical Practitioner working with individuals or groups using arts?based therapeutic interventions.

• Therapeutic Program Developer or Creative Wellbeing Specialist for organisations focusing on mental health, disability support, aged care, or community wellbeing.

• Research or Education Specialist in creative arts therapy disciplines.

 

Highlights & Latest Updates

• This programme is new and innovative, emphasising the therapeutic application of creative arts in diverse clinical and community settings.

• It is designed to produce professionals who can blend artistic expression with evidence?based therapeutic practice.

• Work placements give crucial hands?on clinical experience, enhancing employability.

• Programme details, including structures and entry requirements, may be updated as it progresses through final regulatory approval — so applicants should verify current requirements on the University website before applying.

 

Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a New?Zealand Student Visa to study full?time. Requirements typically include:

• A confirmed offer of admission.

• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.

• Health and travel insurance.

• Evidence of English proficiency.