Our list is sorted by online enrollment to help you compare popular programs from various online schools. Alternatively, explore our list of the most affordable substance use counseling degrees. Almost all programs include internship requirements to provide aspiring addiction counselors with supervised practicum experiences in agencies, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics. This guide ranks the top online bachelor’s in addiction recovery programs to help students find the right one for their needs.

Choose a Program Level

Graduates may find careers in human resources, case management, or care coordination. This fully online bachelor’s in addiction recovery program allows distance learners substance abuse counseling to specialize in prevention or treatment. The curriculum comprises 30 credits in core foundations, six credits in the chosen specialization, and nine elective courses.

• You should determine the requirements for the state in which you plan to practice before applying to a degree program.
• For example, religious organizations pay addiction and substance use counselors an annual mean wage of $78,220, while outpatient care centers pay an annual mean salary of $58,480.
• Students complete courses at their own pace, taking one or more courses each term.
• As with any program, you should only enroll if the school bears regional accreditation.
• An effective addiction counselor must have strong communication skills and empathy to connect with clients during their most difficult challenges.

Additional admission information

The University of South Dakota boasts of its world-class academics, innovative technology, outstanding mentors, and a long-time tradition of excellence. Capella University offers degrees that are designed for the modern world, all at the convenience of your own time with their online education programs. Learners can enjoy personalized learning with individual academic advising and financial guidance, affordable education, top-notch teaching, and flexible online education. When people reach their breaking points with addiction, professional counselors can step in to help them restore their lives. The work of an addiction counselor can be challenging, but it can bring with it great personal rewards. Earn your bachelor’s degree online and be ready to make a difference helping those struggling with and recovering from addictions.

• We aim to promote personal and professional growth through coursework and supervised field experiences, enhancing your ability to deliver client-centered, culturally responsive, and ethically competent mental health counseling services.
• As the state’s only program of its kind, the University of South Dakota’s online bachelor of science in addictions counseling prepares graduates for addiction credentialing in South Dakota.
• These industries paid median annual wages of $87,720, $72,860, and $64,330 in May 2020, respectively.
• Most programs will offer the hours that their state requires for certification or licensure (if such credentials are offered for master’s degree holders in the state).
• Those drawn to this profession are passionate about helping substance abusers recover from their addictions and live better lives.
• The university highlights the Stinger Success Program, which gives excellent support to students through a dedicated academic advisor, freshman seminar, and other academic support services.

Proven methods to become a successful substance abuse counselor.

In this program, you’ll learn the principles of substance abuse and addiction counseling practices including diagnosis, assessment and treatment plans. This applied psychology program equips you with knowledge of researched patterns of addiction styles in addition to an understanding of counseling techniques. A substance abuse bachelor’s degree prepares graduates for rewarding careers helping those who are struggling with drug and alcohol addictions. Your job might be to work with individuals in a crisis situation at a hospital or a private clinic, or you may choose to meet regularly one-on-one or in a group setting throughout the recovery process. Substance abuse counselor degree programs train students to observe and interview patients, carry out treatment plans, and handle crisis situations.

To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher. However, your level of education can often limit the responsibilities you are given.

Yet, some professionals may specialize in a particular age group, such as young adults. You’ll study child and adolescent development, the psychology of individual differences and special needs, and childhood and adolescent conditions. Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.

At the University of Cincinnati (UC), students who want to fulfill the Academic Requirements for Licensure in Substance Abuse Counseling can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling. In addition to the skills gained through academic training, you need to develop certain “soft skills” that facilitate your ability to interact effectively with others, manage time, and solve problems. Consider other expenses besides tuition and fees, such as books and technological needs, or any expected loss of income while taking courses versus salary prospects once you graduate. TheBestSchools.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable.

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