Online Addiction and Substance-Use Related Disorders Graduate Certificate
Addiction and substance abuse are among the nation’s leading public health concerns, driving demand for qualified counselors. Arizona State University’s online graduate certificate in addiction and substance-use related disorders equips you with the expertise to start or advance your counseling career. You’ll learn evidence-based interventions from expert researchers and licensed counselors with decades of experience in the field.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/19/2025
Total classes: 7
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 21
Make an impact by helping those struggling with addiction
Be part of the solution to one of the U.S.’s most pressing health care crises — the shortage of qualified counselors trained in evidence-based addiction and substance abuse treatment. This certificate bridges the gap between research and clinical practice, strengthening your ability to support individuals with co-occurring disorders and apply evidence-based treatments. You’ll also be prepared to address the challenges associated with the opioid epidemic and marijuana legalization.
The demand for qualified substance abuse, behavior disorder and mental health counselors continues to grow with the increasing need for services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these fields is expected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. Earning an education beyond the bachelor’s level is a key step toward advancing in this field.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
If you have a bachelor's degree in health, behavioral health or a related field, this certificate can help you advance your counseling career. It’s also an ideal fit for behavioral health professionals looking to specialize in substance abuse treatment or better serve their clients.
You can earn this standalone certificate or add it to your ASU online graduate program. It pairs well with:
Program recognition and professional licensure and certification
Program recognition
ASU is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. The rigorous review process to achieve this standing ensures that you’ll receive a consistent, reliable and quality learning experience that advances your understanding of addiction and co-occurring disorders-related issues.
Professional licensure and certification
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
Will my certificate say "online"?
No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
A certificate for those dedicated to expanding access to substance abuse treatment and resources in their communities.
Addiction and substance use certificate courses
The curriculum offers focused training in evidence-based substance abuse treatment. Courses explore assessments for diagnosis and treatment, common substance abuse comorbidities, relapse prevention and psychopharmacology. This 21-credit certificate, completed in just two semesters, provides a fast track to entering the addiction counseling field.
The in-demand jobs you’ll be prepared for
Addiction and substance abuse counseling offers diverse opportunities across various settings. Behavioral health professionals play a critical role in treatment centers, community mental health agencies, primary care, integrated health, the military, criminal justice, hospitals and schools.
Note: This certificate does not lead to licensure. To practice independently, you must become a licensed independent substance abuse counselor (LISAC) in your state, which requires education and training beyond this certificate.
Example career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Learn from leading experts in substance abuse treatment and research
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
Learn from leading experts in substance abuse treatment and research
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
How to apply
Applicants to the addiction and substance-use related disorders graduate certificate must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students
$170 million
in research expenditures in 2022
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
100+
undergraduate degrees
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
You might also be interested in
Certificates
Integrated Behavioral Health – Management (Graduate Certificate)
Starts 05/19/2025
Learn more
