Proposal for Bachelor of Fine Art-Art Therapy (BFA-AT) at Arizona State University

Degree seeking artists require assurance that they will be able to make a difference in the art world, and make a living while impacting others with their art. The balance between a commissioned artist and an art teacher is art therapy; with either employment within medical institutions or a self-employed health-care provider. The Bachelor of Fine Art - Art Therapy Concentration (BFA-AT) degree, though currently not present at ASU, may be obtainable for students seeking a pathway to graduate school. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Projections Department, the specific job opportunities in the field of health-care therapists estimate 21,800 employees nationwide with projections of 33,100 in the year 2028; estimated increase of over 11,000 positions are projected to open within the next eight years. These projections were calculated prior to COVID-19 and must be revisited due to the psychopathology of our nation and the globe. A Major MAPP ( Maricopa To ASU Pathway Program) for first year and transfer students has been outlined in this research paper to assist in enrollment. The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) acknowledges and refers potential students to the universities and colleges offering the BFA-AT programs. Further, if ASU adopts the BFA-AT program, theirs will be the only program in the Western U.S., and third in the Central U.S.—out of 16 nationwide programs.