Online Addiction and Substance Use Related Disorders Graduate Certificate
Addiction and substance abuse is one of America's top public health concerns, and there is a growing need for a well-trained workforce. Arizona State University's online addiction and substance use related disorders certificate pairs state-of-the-art research from internationally recognized experts in addictions with expertise from licensed psychologists and counselors with decades of substance abuse treatment experience.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 7
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 21
How do I know if an addiction studies certificate is a good fit for me?
If you’re passionate about helping those struggling with addiction and looking to provide a full range of evidence-based services, ASU Online's substance abuse counseling certificate may be perfect for you. Substance use and addiction constitute one of the largest preventable health problems facing the U.S. today, but less than 20% of those in need receive any substance use treatment, and only a small fraction of those in treatment receive evidence-based treatment.
The addiction studies certificate complements other behavioral health and medical programs at ASU Online, including:
- Doctor of Behavioral Health – clinical.
- Master of Science in forensic psychology.
- Master of Science in nursing.
- Master of Science in psychology.
- Master of Social Work.
Is licensure or certification required to practice as an addiction counselor?
Yes. All states require either licensure or certification to practice as an addiction counselor. Most states have multiple levels of licensure, typically a bachelor’s-level license that requires ongoing supervision and a master’s-level license that allows independent practice. For example, Arizona has three licensure levels:
Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT)
Professional licensure and certification
ASU’s addiction studies certificate program covers the seven core content areas required for licensure in the state of Arizona. An elective 300-hour practicum is also available for students who are concurrently pursuing or already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in behavioral health. This certificate also covers the educational content requirements for most states in the U.S.
In addition, we are a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. Please visit our professional licensure page for the most up-to-date information on requirements for licensure in your state.
Will my addiction and substance use related disorders certificate say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Proven methods to become a successful substance abuse counselor.
Substance abuse counseling certificate courses
This addiction studies certificate is made up of courses that explore evidence-based treatments, comorbidity, psychopharmacology and multicultural counseling. Courses include:
What can I do with an addiction studies certificate?
Substance abuse counselor careers can be incredibly rewarding and offer a wide variety of experiences. Jobs are available in substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health agencies, primary care, integrated health, military, criminal justice, hospitals and schools. Additionally, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, substance abuse counselor jobs are projected to grow 23% from 2020 to 2030, which is much quicker than the average rate. Career examples include, but are not limited to:
Prestigious faculty
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.
Prestigious faculty
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.
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