About the programme
The Postgraduate Diploma in Creative Arts Therapy is an NZQF Level 8 programme at Whitecliffe worth 120 credits that introduces the core philosophy, theories and practices of creative arts therapy. It takes one year full-time or 1.5 years part-time, and works both as a stand-alone qualification for people in related fields and as the entry route to the clinical master's in creative arts therapy.
Students learn how creative processes such as art-making, movement, drama and storytelling can support wellbeing, healing and personal growth. Courses cover four areas: the central place of creativity and art-making (Creative Arts Practice), research in social contexts (Research Capacities), the main theories behind creative arts therapy (Therapy Capacities), and designing and running a group session (Situated Practice).
The diploma is delivered at a distance with ten in-person seminar weekends, one a month, and smaller online regional tutorials plus group and individual study in between, so it fits around work. Learning includes group processes, reflective journals and creative projects. There is no formal clinical placement at this stage; that comes in the master's. Whitecliffe notes that the programme is currently being revised, subject to NZQA approval.
The programme suits teachers, artists, counsellors, social workers and health professionals who want to bring creative methods into their work, and graduates of related fields aiming for an arts therapy career. Whitecliffe states it is the only New Zealand provider with a full suite of creative arts therapy programmes recognised for professional registration with ANZACATA. The next step is the Level 9 Master of Arts in Creative Arts Therapy (Clinical).
Entry requirements
- An undergraduate diploma or degree at NZQF Level 7, or relevant experience showing equivalent competence and the ability to study at Level 8.
- Evidence of academic writing ability suited to postgraduate study.
- A letter of intent, three references and an interview.
- International applicants: a 5-minute self-introduction video on their motivation.
- English: IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or TOEFL 625 or higher; NZ visa requirements also apply.
What you study
- Creative Arts Practice
- Research Capacities
- Therapy Capacities
- Situated Practice — developing and running a group session
- Ten in-person seminar weekends with online regional tutorials
Careers after graduation
- Enhancing existing careers in education and school counselling
- Mental health and community services
- Disability services
- Prison rehabilitation
- Social services and community arts
- Progression to the clinical master's to register as a creative arts therapist
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website