PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy is housed within the Counselor Education program in the College of Education. The certificate program is designed to provide advanced training to students in the Counselor Education program and for practicing counselors and therapists working with children and adolescents.
The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy is housed within the Counselor Education Program in the College of Education. The certificate program is designed to provide advanced training to students in the Counselor Education program and for practicing counselors and therapists working with children and adolescents. The certificate requires the completion of four graduate courses addressing foundations, theories, techniques, and applications of play therapy. Whereas the Play Therapy Certificate does not certify individuals in Play Therapy, it can be listed as a Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy as part of one's credentials. The educational courses are designed toward helping individuals to seek their credential as a registered play therapist. Applicants should contact the Association for Play Therapy to verify the courses they need.

CURRICULUM
The Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy requires 12 credit hours. | Total Credit Hours Required: |
| 12
Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Master's Degree |
Required Courses—12 Credit Hours
- MHS 6421 Foundations of Play Therapy and Play Process (3 credit hours)
- MHS 6422 Theories of Play Therapy and Play Process (3 credit hours)
- MHS 6403 Techniques of Play Therapy and Expressive Arts (3 credit hours)
- MHS 6424 Applications of Play Therapy with Special Populations (3 credit hours)
Application Requirements
Admission is open to those with a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or those currently enrolled in or possessing a master's degree in counseling or a related field. An application to the graduate certificate program and official transcripts must be submitted. Applicants must apply online. All requested materials must be submitted by the established deadline.
Individuals seeking national certification through the Association of Play Therapy Incorporated (APT) must obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and possess a state license in Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Social Work. For additional play therapy certification requirements, please consult the APT website at www.a4pt.org.
Application Deadlines
| Play Therapy Certificate |
Fall Priority
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Fall
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Spring
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Summer
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Domestic Applicants
| - | Jul 15 | Dec 1 | Apr 15 |
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International Applicants
| - | - | - | - |
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International Transfer Applicants
| - | - | - | - |
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