
Keep in mind that you should only apply to institutionally accredited schools, though. Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences. While the median salary for substance abuse counselors is $53,710, pursuing advanced education can significantly elevate earning potential — with the top 10% earning upwards of $89,920 annually.

How can educators support gender-diverse students?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of college tuition is $14,688 for undergraduate programs and $20,513 for graduate programs. Beyond tuition, online students will likely encounter additional expenses such as distance learning fees, library access fees, and course materials and textbooks. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed. Employers often value practical experiences such as internships, especially when considering bachelor’s-level candidates who may not have lengthy resumes. Pre-licensure programs in substance use counseling must include a field placement, so choosing a program that includes a hands-on element is a great way to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
Villanova University Villanova University Villanova University Villanova University
In today’s rapidly evolving mental health landscape, the need for versatile and culturally competent therapists is more critical than ever. The online format offers students the flexibility of online learning, expert-led courses and a supportive community. UC also features many online bachelor’s programs for learners who want to keep their options open. 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.
Admission Information for Our Online MA in Addiction Counseling Degree

Before graduating, degree seekers must complete a senior capstone experience and two internships in substance use counseling. You can also access other community and social service management positions, including social work and school counseling. If you’re looking to continue your education and training even further, several doctoral degree paths are available, including family, mental health, and behavioral disorder counseling degrees. Despite being one of the largest preventable health problems in the U.S, people facing substance misuse and addiction rarely receive the treatment they need.
- Belton finally landed on a Bible degree at Cedarville University because she knew that regardless of what she chose to do next, she wanted to have a Biblical foundation.
- The online format offers students the flexibility of online learning, expert-led courses and a supportive community.
- They also provide excellent support for students, such as academic advising, career services, health and well-being support, disability assistance, and international support for foreign students.
- Scholarships and grants can make college more affordable and require no repayment.
- Our methodology prioritizes schools with the highest online enrollment numbers to understand the popularity and accessibility of each master’s degree in substance abuse counseling online.

Getting a degree in substance use counseling online clearly has its pros and cons. But, you might miss out on making connections, and some online students struggle without enough help from their colleges, which can make finishing your degree harder. Still, online programs have lots of different students, which makes learning more interesting. And, if you’re busy or have other stuff going on, online learning can be a great way to reach your goals in substance use counseling.
To explore the relationship between social factors and substance use, consider working toward a doctoral degree in social psychology. Washburn University is a premier educational institution nestled in the heart of Topeka, Kansas, the state’s capital city. It has a beautiful and picturesque 160-acre campus with excellent and modern facilities. There are more than 200 courses offered here, taught by faculty members who are experts in their fields.
- This interdisciplinary degree teaches a broad understanding of counseling techniques for individuals with addiction in different settings.
- Its curriculum places an importance in an interdisciplinary approach to the liberal arts, combined with humanities and social sciences with science and engineering.
- The courses in your program may include Lifespan Human Development, Principles of Case Management and Trauma Intervention.
Substance use counselors can work in many settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, hospitals, other healthcare providers’ offices, and government agencies. Find the best online community colleges in Pennsylvania in 2024 by comparing salary potential and popularity among distance learners. Waynesburg University (WU) is a small, nonprofit school that hosts an online certificate in addictions counseling.

The exact level of training that you will need may depend on your state and the setting in which you practice. People with this degree often conduct surveys and carry out other research. Alternatively, you might lead mental health organizations, become a psychology professor, or serve as a public relations specialist for a drug treatment facility.
USC Rossier School of Education announces the launch of its new Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy online (MFT online) program. The innovative program is designed to prepare therapists for both in-person and telehealth settings, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed substance abuse counseling to positively impact their communities. You can reduce student debt by applying for outside scholarships and developing a college savings plan. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the median annual total cost for an online master’s program is about $24,300.

