Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling Degree
What Is a Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling Degree?
Addiction is a disorder that tears apart families, ruins lives and adversely affects whole communities. As an aspiring substance abuse counselor, you can help make a difference. Enroll in Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Substance Abuse. Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, this addiction counseling degree offers students the opportunity to serve individuals, families and communities with competence and compassion.
Students studying to become substance abuse counselors will be taught the background factors of addiction and substance abuse. Applying a strength-based perspective will help students approach the whole person and family. Physical, emotional and mental aspects of addiction are primary strengths and avenues to healing for the individual and family. Students will be exposed to the Christian worldview and key concepts in spirituality to understanding and treating addiction.
What You’ll Be Taught in a BS in Addiction Counseling Program
The bachelor's degree in substance abuse and addiction counseling at GCU is an accredited program that provides students with an academic foundation in the counseling field. The degree requires a total of 120 credits for completion. Online classes are available to help meet the needs of a diverse student body.
Students can benefit from learning a blend of theoretical knowledge and applied skills, including hands-on learning experiences. Some of the courses included with this type of substance abuse counseling degree include the following:
- Foundations of Addiction and Substance Use
- Psychopharmacology in Treatment of Addiction and Substance Use Disorders
- Multicultural Counseling in a Diverse Society
- Relapse Prevention in the Treatment of Addiction and Substance Use Disorder
- Trauma, Addiction and Substance Use Disorders
Students will be taught the necessary skills in screening, intake, assessment, treatment planning and case management. They will explore special issues in substance abuse counseling, including considerations when working with children and adolescents, encouraging family involvement in the treatment process and working with clients with co-occurring disorders like anxiety.
The role of spirituality in substance abuse counseling is emphasized. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to gain foundational knowledge in matters pertaining to legal standards, professional guidelines and ethical issues.
Careers With A Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling Degree
Earning your bachelor's in addiction counseling degree is the first step toward pursuing a career in substance abuse counseling. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, substance use has shown a small decline in the United States since the pandemic, particularly among students in grades 8 through 12. In 2019, 14.8% of eighth-graders had used an illicit drug within the past year. In 2022, an estimated 11% of eighth-graders had used an illicit drug within the past year.1
The need for substance abuse counselors is expected to grow as people continue to seek addiction and mental health counseling services.2 The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors to increase by approximately 22% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than average, accounting for the addition of an estimated 77,500 jobs in the field.3
Substance abuse counselors can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Private practices
- Hospitals
- Mental health clinics
- Rehabilitation facilities
Some jobs may require professional licensure or certification. The bachelor's degree in substance abuse and addiction counseling at GCU may qualify you to become eligible to pursue professional credentials, such as the Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT). It may also provide a foundation for enrollment in a graduate degree program in substance abuse counseling. This graduate program can also lead to a pathway to licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Addiction Counseling
The first step in becoming a certified substance abuse counselor is to earn an advanced online addiction counseling degree from an accredited institution. During your degree program, you will be required to complete supervised practicum hours in a counseling-related and direct-contact capacity. Graduates with an MS in Addiction Counseling from GCU are given the tools to meet the Arizona licensure requirements and may also be prepared to seek licensure or additional certification in other states. It is the responsibility of the student to understand the licensing requirements for their state. Students must pass a national or state licensing or certification exam in order to be a certified substance abuse counselor.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors have a median annual wage of $48,520 as of May 2021.4
The BS in Addiction Counseling degree at GCU requires 120 credits to completion. The on-campus degree courses are 15 weeks and the online courses are seven weeks. The master’s-level online addiction counseling degree requires 36 credits to completion and the courses are eight weeks.
1 National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022, December 15). Most Reported Substance Use Among Adolescents Held Steady in 2022. Retrieved on July 6, 2023.
2 U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, October 24). Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors Job Outlook. Retrieved on July 6, 2023.
3 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors, retrieved on June 26, 2023.
4 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors as of May 2021, retrieved on June 26, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This course provides foundational knowledge in theoretical approaches to counseling. Theoretical models studied include psychodynamic, existential, Gestalt, person-centered, cognitive and behavioral therapy, family systems, and narrative- and solution-focused therapies.
Course Description
This course provides foundational knowledge regarding addiction and substance use disorders. Topics studied include biopsychosocial dynamics; stages, processes, and impact of addiction and substance use; and the role of the addiction professional in prevention, intervention, relapse prevention, and aftercare. In addition, the course provides overviews of the substance abuse counselor's code of ethics, HIPAA, and legal issues involved in counseling.
Course Description
This course provides a foundational understanding of the biological and psychological components of substance use disorders, addiction and treatment, and application to the client with co-occurring disorders. Students gain foundational knowledge in the principles of pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology as they apply to the major classes of medications. The course also focuses on current drugs used in the treatment of addiction and substance use disorders. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course provides foundational knowledge regarding the treatment of addiction/substance use disorders and a comorbid psychiatric disorder. Students learn about origins of, methods of transmission for, and myths regarding HIV/AIDS, and treatment issues and prevention strategies for the HIV-positive or AIDS client. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses on cultural sensitivity and cultural competence as they relate to the development and use of treatment plans designed for clients from diverse populations. Students learn the importance of being knowledgeable of the values and belief systems of diverse populations as well as issues of social justice when examining incidences of drug use among these groups and implementing individual treatment plans. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course provides foundational knowledge in the study of group dynamics, stages, and processes. Students learn the importance of screening, intervention, and leadership styles in effective group interventions. Self-help groups and community resources are explored. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course provides foundational knowledge on stages of change, interviewing techniques, screening and assessment, report writing, record keeping, treatment planning, and case management. In addition, students develop knowledge and skill in crisis intervention in preparation for working with clients and families with addiction or substance use disorders. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses on relapse prevention. Identifying potential triggers for relapse and developing relapse prevention plans are explored. Students are provided with strategies for connecting their clients with community resources. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses on understanding the family dynamics of addiction. In addition, students learn the importance of working with community and prevention programs in addressing addiction and substance use disorders on a broader level. Skill in presenting educational topics pertaining to addiction and substance use disorders are developed. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses on the legal and ethical responsibilities involved when child abuse, abuse of the elderly, and domestic or family violence has been reported. Understanding the dynamics of working with cases of family violence and domestic partner abuse are explored.
Course Description
This course provides advanced study in the application of cognitive and behavioral theory, rational emotive behavioral theory, family systems theory, solution-focused therapy, and postmodern theories. Newly developed research-based theories are also discussed. In addition, this course provides advanced application of motivational interviewing techniques. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course focuses on substance use disorders, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment as they apply to mental health disorders and special populations. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses on the relationship between spirituality and the development and treatment of addictions. It also covers legal, ethical, and spiritual aspects of death, dying, and end of life issues. The course addresses grief and loss as it relates to addiction, death, and dying. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This writing intensive course provides an advanced study in the application of ethical guidelines, legal standards, HIPAA, and professional responsibilities in the treatment of addiction and substance use disorders. Topics include attitudes, skills, and behaviors of addiction and substance use disorder counselors; prevention of burnout and compassion fatigue; the importance of obtaining supervision and consultation; and licensure and certification. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course focuses specifically on the special issues involved in treating children and adolescents struggling with addiction or substance use disorders and how that treatment compares to treatment of adults. Students demonstrate and apply assessment, diagnosis, and treatment methods, as well as understanding of risk factors, social influences, prevention strategies, intervention, treatment planning, and relapse prevention. The importance of family involvement, family education, and legal issues involved in treating children is also discussed. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course provides advanced study in the treatment of process addictions, such as compulsive gambling, sexual addiction, work addiction, spending addiction, and eating disorders. Students learn the special issues involved in screening, assessment, prevention, treatment, and relapse prevention related to process addictions. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Course Description
This course provides advanced study in case management. Students examine case studies on addiction and substance use disorders to develop knowledge and skill in screening, intake, assessment, treatment planning, record keeping, report writing, referral, and case management. Prerequisite: PCN-255.
Course Description
This course provides clinical knowledge of the effects of trauma on clients struggling with addiction and substance use disorders. Students develop knowledge and skill in assessing for anxiety disorders, including trauma, and learn to facilitate a critical incident stress management debriefing. Prerequisites: PCN-100 and PCN-107.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.