Degree Spotlight: MS in Addiction Counseling
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
If you’re a student who wishes to pursue a career as an addiction counseling professional, then consider GCU’s Master of Science in Addiction Counseling degree. With the completion of this program, you may be prepared to work in a range of settings such as substance abuse clinics, hospitals, group practice and private practice, where you will treat individuals with dependency and substance abuse disorders. Some of the topics of study include the impact of addiction on family structure, counseling ethics, psychopharmacology theories of drug abuse and the causes and treatment of addiction.
Research indicates that millions of individuals suffer from substance abuse annually, and it’s among the most common problems in the United States. When you consider this, it’s not surprising that jobs in substance abuse and addiction counseling are projected to grow significantly, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you’re considering Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Addiction Counseling degree, then read on to learn about the program’s outcomes and potential career options:
GCU’s Master of Science in Addiction Counseling program can prepare you to become a professional counselor. With the completion of this degree, you can expect to meet the academic requirements for licensure in Arizona as a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) or a Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, substance abuse and behavioral counselor jobs are expected to grow by 22% between 2014 and 2024, with a job outlook that is much faster than average. GCU offers a bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling that may prepare you for licensure and employment, but regulations vary. The master’s degree can prepare you to take your career to the next level or students who have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or counseling prepare for licensure.
Are you ready to learn more about GCU’s Master of Science in Addiction Counseling program? If so, then please click the green Request More Information button at the top of this page or visit the College of Humanities and Social Sciences to learn more.
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08/15/2025
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