Certificate in Play and Expressive Therapies

Monmouth University, located in West Long Branch, New Jersey, offers a compact, coastal campus experience that balances focused academics with an active student life. Founded in 1933, the private university enrolls about 4,400 students and provides a close-knit atmosphere where faculty are accessible and mentorship is emphasized. The scenic setting near the Jersey Shore supports both study and recreation, creating a welcoming environment for international students seeking personalized attention.

Academically, Monmouth features approximately 148 programs across undergraduate and graduate levels, with small class sizes that encourage discussion and hands-on learning. Students frequently engage in applied research, internships, and community projects that connect classroom theory with real-world practice. Programs in business, health sciences, education, and the arts benefit from faculty who prioritize practical experience and career readiness.

Campus life includes active student organizations, leadership development opportunities, and career services that help graduates transition to professional roles. Although international students are a smaller community on campus, dedicated support services help with housing, advising, and cultural adjustment. For prospective students, Monmouth presents an attractive option if you value individualized instruction, experiential learning, and a supportive coastal campus setting.

The Certificate in Play and Expressive Therapies is a non-degree program for mental health professionals with a Master's degree, offered at Monmouth University. This one-year program helps professionals working with children and adolescents enhance their clinical practice. Its main advantage is that it exceeds the 150-course-hour requirement for a Registered Play Therapist credential.

The curriculum includes graduate-level courses specific to Play and Expressive Therapies, helping students develop skills in play therapy and expressive therapies. Students also get hands-on experience by working toward the required 500 direct practice clinical hours in play therapy and 50 hours of supervision.

Graduates can pursue careers as Registered Play Therapists, Mental Health Therapists, Child Psychologists, Adolescent Therapists, or Clinical Social Workers, working in settings like hospitals, clinics, or private practices.