Bachelor Of Science In Addiction Studies

Is An Online Degree In Substance Abuse Counseling Worth It

Since everyone’s circumstances differ, nobody can answer this question without considering their familial responsibilities, career goals, and financial situation. But if you’re passionate about helping people overcome addiction, then a bachelor’s degree in this field might be worth the investment of time and money.

What Will I Learn

Your curriculum for an online bachelor degree in addiction counseling will teach you how to guide patients to maintain their sobriety and lead you to a successful career in substance abuse counseling.

• An overview of the field of substance abuse counseling and its graduate level academic trajectories .
• Pharmacology explored through the lens of substance use disorders.
• Individual, family, and societal factors that are associated with individual substance use.
• Clinical assessment and diagnostic processes in substance abuse counseling.
• How to develop advanced cultural competencies that are essential in substance abuse counseling practices.
• Fundamental skills necessary for individual counseling of clients with a substance use disorder.
• About the group process, leadership, and practice for substance abuse counseling.
• How to help individuals with substance abuse with strategies to prevent relapses and promote recovery.

See all courses to learn more.

Upon completion of our addictions counselor program, you may meet academic requirements for licensure in many states. Due to specific state-by-state requirements, students will need to research their individual state chemical dependency licensure boards for state-specific information on levels of licensure, certificates available, and reciprocity across states.

You can learn more about the counselor pathway in our Complete Guide to Becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor.

Bachelor Of Science Addiction Studies Treatment Path

The University of Central Arkansas is the only university in the State of Arkansas to offer a Bachelor of Science Degree in Addiction Studies! This program is offered on-campus and online. The online program is a completion degree in Addiction Studies for students who have earned an Associates Degree. If you are looking for an exciting career with growing opportunities and want to be in the forefront in helping to resolve one of our countrys greatest social problems, explore a career in addiction counseling or addiction prevention. A Bachelor of Science Degree in Addiction Studies graduate will be prepared to work in such settings as hospitals, outpatient clinics, employee assistance programs, schools, the criminal justice system, governmental agencies and drug courts.

Read Also: What Can You Do With An Addiction Studies Degree

Community College Transfer Students

Community college transfer students may apply a maximum of 12 units of coursework in human services and related fields towards the total of 54 units. The 12 transferable units are included in the 70-unit maximum of total transferable units. Transfer of any units must be approved by the department adviser. For transfer students with a relevant certificate, up to 18 units of coursework in human services may be applied to the total of 54 units.

Earn Your Degree In Addiction Studies At Empire State College

The Bachelor of Science degree in Addiction Studies is a 124-credit program listed with SUNY and approved as a registered degree program through the New York State Education Department. It is designed to serve students who are interested in becoming skilled professionals to understand and treat individuals suffering from addiction. The program is structured around courses that address fundamental aspects of how addiction affects individuals, families, and communities, while examining the assessment, treatment, and prevention of substance abuse.

The Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies is guided by the competencies model from the US Department of Health and Human Service and features a curriculum focused on equipping students with fundamental skills through core courses. Once a foundational skill set is laid, students are given the opportunity to customize their education to match their educational and career goals by choosing from a wide variety of courses to fulfill the degree requirements. Students will have the option of completing the degree program through various delivery modes such as online, independent study, blended, and/or face-to-face study.

Also Check: How Can I Stop My Addiction

Addiction Studies Career Opportunities:

Q: What careers can I pursue with a low-cost Bachelors degree in Addiction Studies?

Once you graduate, youll be able to start entry-level careers in a variety of settings like prisons, community centers, counseling centers, hospitals, in your own practice, and more. A common profession people choose with an Addiction Studies degree is a Substance Abuse Counselor, which may require extra schooling or licensure. A few things to note are that substance abuse counselors are not able to prescribe medicine or give medical/psychological therapy. Instead, substance abuse counselors mentor and advocate for their clients. With more intense schooling, you could continue your education and become a psychologist or psychiatrist if those more advanced careers represent your career goals.

Q: What kind of salary can I expect in this field?

Based on data from 2018, the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics shares the following mean annual wage:

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, Mental Health Counselor: $44,630 per year

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: $47,830 per year

Community Health Worker: $42,340 per year

Q: What knowledge and skills will I need to acquire to become a Substance Abuse Counselor?

• one-on-one counseling
• an understanding of the cultural, social, and behavioral influences that can impact addiction
• family education and support

The Study Of Addictions

Gain a strong foundation in the study of addictions so that you are prepared to serve the community by helping those in need as they work to overcome addictive behaviors. By learning about the impact of addiction not only on an individual, but also on the broader community, youll be equipped to play a critical role in restoring dignity and health to people who have an addiction.

Each seven-and-a-half-week course is fully online, giving you the flexibility you need to balance your academics with your busy life.

Read Also: How To Stop Cigarette Smoking Addiction

Bachelor Of General Studies

The Bachelor of General Studies is a degree program designed for the student who has earned some college creditbut has not completed a bachelors degree. It is not designed for first-time freshmen. Online students will focus on the Health Science Concentration and the Social Sciences Concentration.

The Bachelor of General Studies requires online students to complete a total of 60 credit hours comprised of the following:

• 18 credit hours in the Health Science Concentration
• 18 credit hours in the Social Sciences Concentration and
• 24 credit hours of elective courses.

Is Substance Abuse Counseling Right For Me

Are you concerned about the current substance abuse epidemic and want to help individuals affected by it? Are you a good listener with a strong motivation to help others? Do you possess excellent communication skills and are also calm under pressure/in a crisis? Then substance abuse counseling may be a good career fit for you.

This program is also a great next step if you already have experience in social work, counseling, nursing, or psychiatry.

UC Online’s BS in Substance Abuse Counseling was the only bachelors program I found that focused strictly on substance abuse counseling. Studying online is the perfect fit for me.I find interacting with everyone to be quite easy. Even though we dont see each other in person, I developed a camaraderie with some of my UCO peers, especially those in my last three semester classes. I find it to be much easier than I expected. Once you get into the flow of the courses, it is surprisingly easy to stay on track. Everything I learn at UCO informs my current role. My focus on prioritizing education and certification rewards me every day.

You May Like: How Do I Give Up My Sugar Addiction

Bachelor Of Science In Addictions Counseling

The online Bachelor of Science in Addictions Counseling degree is an advanced study of addictions counseling that prepares students to more quickly qualify for national and state certifications. The advanced curriculum covers todays evolving mental health and addictions treatments and prepares students to begin their careers in noncertified capacities or to continue their education in graduate studies.

Students can complete the B.S. in addictions counseling either on a part-time or full-time basis online. Completion of the program shortens the time to complete state and national certification. Students must complete 42 hours in addictions counseling courses and three elective courses in order to complete the program. These courses will complement specific career goals and interests. While students may minor in any discipline, Brescia recommends they minor in psychology or social work.

Major subject requirement: 42 credit hoursStudents must complete all B.S. major subject requirement courses listed below.

Admissions RequirementsAll students who apply to the addictions counseling programs, regardless of which program they choose, must formally apply after they complete certain prerequisite courses. The admission procedure screens applicants and admits only those with the attitudes, values and maturity to work in a demanding career.

Addiction Studies Career Opportunities Faqs:

Q: Where can I work with a low-cost Bachelors degree in Addiction Studies?

The fascinating part about this career path is the vast amount of areas in which you can work, from both in-patient and out-patient agency settings. For example, you can find jobs in residential programs, forensic programs, prisons, probation, parole, private practice, community health centers, counseling centers, and more.

Q: What is the most common job graduates with an Addiction Studies degree get?

A common profession people choose with an Addiction Studies degree is a Substance Abuse Counselor, which may require extra schooling or licensure . Substance abuse counselors mentor and advocate for their clients, treat patients with chemical dependency and other addictive behaviors, and work with clients on prevention and recovery strategies.

Q: What knowledge and skills will I need to acquire to become a Substance Abuse Counselor?

To be successful in any career, youll need both education and experience in that field. But on top of that, youll also need to acquire a professional skillset specific to that job. If you plan to become a Substance Abuse Counselor, some skills/aspects of the position you should master include:

• one-on-one counseling
• an understanding of the cultural, social, and behavioral influences that can impact addiction
• family education and support

Also Check: How To Know If Someone Is Addicted To Drugs

College Of Health And Public Service

• Addiction Studies

UNT now has a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies

The Addiction Studies program at The University of North Texas prepares you to work with people with addiction, those at risk, and those in recovery as allies. Opportunities in the profession exist in hospitals, community agencies, schools, within the justice system, state and federal government organizations, recovery supports, recovery homes, detoxication programs, and private & public treatment programs. Our program provides the required courses for licensure as a Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas.

Proper Terminology Within This Field

Language is constantly evolving, and terms specific to this field of study are no exception. To reflect growing trends, a combination of familiar and newer terms are utilized throughout this page. The word “abuse” has been steadily shifting toward alternatives from “use” to “misuse” that are less accusatory and judgment-laden. Although some institutions continue offering degree programs in substance abuse counseling, others are offering programs in substance use counseling. Meanwhile, practitioners that specialize in addiction are overwhelmingly advocating for terminology updates that help lessen the stigma around mental health issues, including those associated with chemical dependencies.

Practitioners that specialize in addiction are overwhelmingly advocating for terminology updates that help lessen the stigma around mental health issues.

Also Check: How Do I Stop Being Addicted To Food

Gain A Broad Interdisciplinary Perspective On Counseling Addiction Family Dynamics And Human Development

The Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences program includes coursework from a wide variety of departments. You will gain comprehensive knowledge of human growth, behavior, addiction, organizational management and more, taking courses in subjects such as:

• Addictive behavior

• Substance abuse prevention and treatment
• Eating disorders
• Understanding diversity

Make A Difference In The Lives Of Others With A Counseling And Addiction Recovery Sciences Degree

Our counseling and addiction recovery sciences degree helps you develop practical skills to make a positive impact on other peoples’ lives while building the foundation for a rewarding career or graduate study. You will develop a holistic perspective preparing you for the professional challenges involved in counseling, administration, advocacy, addiction and recovery, family therapy, and family studies.

You will learn in a progressive environment with groundbreaking service programs and research initiatives in fields such as social work, addiction counseling, family therapy, and human services. Students have the unique opportunity to participate in innovative undergraduate research studies.

Texas Tech’s Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences bachelor’s degree enables you to:

Recommended Reading: Understanding And Helping An Addict

University Of St Francis

Joliet, Illinois

Standardized Test Score Requirements: 20 ACT/1020 SAT scorePoints: 13

As the only BA program in the Chicago area in this field, the University of St. Francis offers an affordable Bachelors degree in Addiction Studies. This BA in Substance Abuse Counseling will prepare graduates to work in a variety of settings, like hospitals, nonprofit state-funded treatment centers, mental health centers, community health centers, prisons, drug courts, and private practice. To put theory into action, students will complete two practicums and a capstone experience. Graduates will meet all the requirements to take the certification exam to become a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor by the Illinois Certification Board, as well as for the Co-Occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Disorder Professional Level 1 Registration . The University of St. Francis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and the addiction studies program is additionally accredited by the Illinois Certification Board.

Net-Price Tuition: $19,418

Computer Information Systems Business Analysis Concentration

The online completion degree for the Bachelor of Business Administration in CIS prepares graduates for a wide range of analyst positions. Business analysts provide expertise in business processes, data management and utilization, and systems development. With companies collecting more and more data, many analysts manage and process the data for competitive advantage. Using techniques such as data visualization and data mining, analysts provide organizations with the ability to integrate technology and data effectively. The Business Analysis Concentration is one of three concentrations in the CIS program it is the only one that is offered totally online.Read More. Apply Now

Don’t Miss: Food Addicts Anonymous San Diego

Funding An Online Substance Abuse Counseling Program

Financial aid comes in many forms for students planning to earn an online bachelor’s degree in substance abuse counseling.

The financial aid process typically begins when a student submits a Free Application for Student Financial Aid form. The information provided determines what types of aid and the amount that each student may receive. Then, the schools notify students regarding how much financial aid they are willing to offer.

Although students must repay their loans with interest, federal student loans typically offer more favorable terms than private loans. Overall, students prefer scholarships and grants because they don’t have to repay them at all. To further reduce costs, they may also consider applying for financial assistance programs if they have special circumstances. For example, veterans and active-duty military personnel are often eligible for tuition discounts. Similarly, some schools have set up partnerships with various organizations, so if students are employees or members, they may be eligible for tuition assistance.

Due to a growing need for substance use and addiction counselors, several non-profits provide additional scholarships and grants.

Below are some scholarships for undergraduates studying substance use and misuse:

Common Substance Use Counseling Courses

An online bachelor’s degree in substance abuse counseling provides students with an in-depth understanding of the negative impacts that substance use and misuse has on individuals, their loved ones, and society. By studying the coursework, students learn about the psychology behind addiction and how drugs and alcohol affect the body. They also gain hands-on experience treating and supporting people with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health issues during and after recovery.

Don’t Miss: Addiction And The Brain Worksheet

What Skills Are Needed

Getting a degree is just the first part of your journey, but youll need more than that!

People who wish to become counselors in the field of addiction need soft skills, which are character traits or interpersonal skills. While hard skills are teachable, soft skills come naturally.

For example, people with compassion, good listening skills, empathy, and a strong desire to see a persons well-being mended make exceptional counselors in substance use disorders. These skills can rarely be taught, so if you believe youre a person with these character traits, you may make excellent alcohol and drug counselor.

What Kind Of Addiction/substance Abuse Degree Should You Get

A bachelor’s degree in Addiction/Substance Abuse will prepare you for most careers in the prevention and treatment of addiction. Some programs offer specializations or tracks in either treatment or prevention. Other programs allow you to customize your degree based on your individual career goals.

You can complete these programs on campus or online. While some students prefer face-to-face instruction, online courses offer flexibility and convenience. If you’re interested in pursuing your degree online, check out our list of the Best Online Addictions and Recovery degrees.

Don’t Miss: What Is The Addiction Hotline Number

Career Opportunities And Graduate Study In Counseling And Addiction Recovery Sciences

The bachelor’s degree in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences prepares you for a successful experience in graduate school. Many CARS majors go on to complete graduate degrees in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or clinical mental health services. CARS majors have also successfully pursued graduate degrees in law, social work, public health, and public administration.

Students who do not wish to pursue a graduate degree have successfully secured positions in:

• Human services administration and service delivery
• Substance abuse prevention and counseling
• Nonprofit leadership and program development

• Case management

The CARS major gives you multiple avenues for turning your desire to help others into a lifelong career. Join us as we strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.