Addiction Studies Graduate Certificate

The Addiction Studies Graduate Certificate provides students with a strong theoretical and practical foundation in substance abuse treatment modalities, counseling skills, professional and ethical responsibilities, and client advocacy. It is for individuals with a bachelor's degree and for professionals with a related license (LMSW, MSW, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LPC, MD) interested in becoming licensed alcohol and drug counselors.

The core curriculum prepares you for the Minnesota Licensed Alcohol and Drug (MLADC) comprehensive exam and to become credentialed as a Board Certified Counselor (BCC). It is designed to meet the ongoing training and education needs of addiction counselors, social workers, psychologists, mental health practitioners, and prevention specialists. Students have the opportunity to develop and refine clinical skills and knowledge in addictive disorders in a multidisciplinary environment.

The Addiction Studies Graduate Certificate is now WIA (Workforce Investment Act) approved! Please contact your local Minnesota WorkForce Center to find out if you are eligible to receive WIA funding for your study program.

Why Choose the Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies? 

• This certificate meets licensing requirements for substance abuse counselors in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
• U of M certificate graduates have a 100% pass rate on the Minnesota Licensed Alcohol and Drug (MLADC) comprehensive exam.
• Program faculty assist with internship placements.
• Faculty include distinguished researchers and practitioners who are actively involved with the changes occurring in the science and practice of addiction prevention and treatment.
• Internship site supervisors consistently comment on the high level of skills and preparedness of our students.
• This Board of Regents approved certificate was designed by professionals in the community and faculty from Family Social Science, Social Work, Psychiatry, and Public Health.
• Classes are offered late afternoon, evenings, and online.
• Certificate may be used in a degree program.
• Graduate-level credits may transfer into a graduate degree program.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for substance abuse counselors is excellent, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Employers generally seek individuals with advanced education and training in the science and practice of chemical addiction and counseling. Employment of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors is expected to grow 34 percent through 2016 (U.S. Department of Labor, Dec. 10, 2008).  This demand for substance abuse counselors is expected to be strong for a variety of reasons:

• As society becomes more knowledgeable about addiction, it is increasingly common for people to seek treatment.
• Drug offenders are increasingly being sent to treatment programs rather than jail.
• Many counselors are reaching retirement age.
• Insurance companies and HMOs increasingly provide for reimbursement of counselors.
• Employers are increasingly offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) that provide alcohol and drug abuse services.