West Liberty University art therapy program tops Forbes Advisor affordability ranking

Forbes Advisor named West Liberty University’s Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling the most affordable online graduate art therapy program in the U.S. The ranking highlights a $31,620 estimated total cost and could boost attention on the school’s fully virtual degree path for working professionals.

Why it matters: - West Liberty University’s ranking gives prospective art therapy students a lower-cost option in a field tied to mental health and behavioral health careers. - The program’s cost and online format may widen access for students who need flexibility and want to avoid out-of-state tuition premiums.

What happened: - Forbes Advisor named West Liberty University’s Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling the most affordable online graduate art therapy program in the United States. - The ranking appears in Forbes Advisor’s annual review of online art therapy graduate programs. - West Liberty University said the program is listed at an estimated $31,620 for both in-state and out-of-state students. - West Liberty University does not charge out-of-state tuition for online learners.

The details: - The degree is a 60-credit-hour program. - The curriculum includes 51 credit hours of coursework, 3 credit hours of supervised practicum and 6 credit hours of supervised professional internship. - The program is designed for working professionals. - Students complete the program 100% virtually through synchronous Zoom and online evening classes. - Students may complete the required in-person practicum at their workplace, if appropriate. - Each fall, students participate in a 3-day virtual residency. - Fall, spring and summer classes are completed 100% virtually through synchronous Zoom and online classes. - The program prepares graduates to pursue Art Therapist Registered certification and state licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia and other states. - Postgraduate supervision hours and passing exams are required for certification and licensure.

Between the lines: - The ranking signals that price remains a major differentiator in online graduate education, especially for students balancing work and school. - West Liberty University is positioning the program as both accessible and career-oriented, with emphasis on dual credentials and hands-on training. - Dr. Susan Ridley, associate professor and chair of the Department for Art Therapy and Counseling, said the program is meant to prepare students to work with diverse populations in high-demand mental health and behavioral health settings.

What's next: - West Liberty University is directing prospective students to westliberty.edu for applications and more information. - Forbes Advisor will continue publishing education rankings built from data sources including the National Center for Education Statistics, education providers and professional organizations. - The university will likely continue using the ranking to market the program to students seeking an affordable online path into art therapy and counseling.

The bottom line: - West Liberty University now has a national affordability credential that could help it stand out in a competitive online graduate market.