Bachelor of Science in Addictions Counseling

The online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Addictions Counseling degree is an advanced study of addictions counseling that prepares students to more quickly qualify for national and state certifications. The advanced curriculum covers today’s evolving mental health and addictions treatments and prepares students to begin their careers in noncertified capacities or to continue their education in graduate studies.

Students can complete the B.S. in addictions counseling either on a part-time or full-time basis online. Completion of the program shortens the time to complete state and national certification. Students must complete 42 hours in addictions counseling courses and three elective courses in order to complete the program. These courses will complement specific career goals and interests. While students may minor in any discipline, Brescia recommends they minor in psychology or social work.

Major subject requirement: 42 credit hours
Students must complete all B.S. major subject requirement courses listed below.

Major subject requirement courses (3 credit hours each)
PSY 230: Psychology of Addictions/Introduction to Addictions
ADC 230: Addictions and the Family
ADC 250: Theories and Addiction
ADC 260: Ethics and Professional Responsibility
ADC 300: Individual Addiction Counseling: Theory and Practice
ADC 310: Group Addiction Counseling: Theory and Practice
ADC 320: Behavioral Psychopharmacology
ADC 330: Community Prevention: Theory and Practice
ADC 340: Crisis and Brief Interventions Counseling
ADC 400: Screening, Assessment and Treatment Planning
ADC 410: Case Management and Documentation
ADC 420: Recovery and Relapse Prevention: Theory and Practice
ADC 440: Field Placement and Seminar Practice I
ADC 450: Field Placement and Seminar Practice II

Admissions Requirements
All students who apply to the addictions counseling programs, regardless of which program they choose, must formally apply after they complete certain prerequisite courses. The admission procedure screens applicants and admits only those with the attitudes, values and maturity to work in a demanding career.

Please note that the completion of a Baccalaureate Degree in Addictions Counseling does not thereby result in certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) according to state regulations. However, completion of the degree may significantly reduce the number of supervision hours each state requires for such certification. Students should consult the specific state regulations in their home state for exact certification requirements.