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Why Get A Bachelor’s Degree in Addiction Studies Counseling?

A bachelor’s degree in addiction studies counseling is the ideal program for students who want to make a big difference in the lives of people struggling with addiction.

Being a substance abuse counselor can be an extremely rewarding position. You’ll have the opportunity to help people get their life together by treating a variety of conditions including substance abuse, depression, stress, and grief.

The career is also a great option for people who want experience working in a wide variety of environments. When students receive this degree, they can even hold a wide range of positions throughout their career.

Generally speaking, graduates of these programs will be responsible for counseling patients, maintaining client/patient caseloads, collaborating with families, performing evaluations, and many other responsibilities.


Compare Popular Online Substance Abuse Counseling Programs

Top 5 Addiction Counseling Bachelor's Programs in the US

university-of-south-florida-main-campus-logo

The college offers a minor in Addictions Studies for students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Students must complete a total of 18 credit hours to receive this minor. After completing the program, students will be qualified to become a certified addictions professional. Students just need to pass the state examination for this credential.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $6,410
    • Out-of-State: $17,324
  • Average Net Price: $9,787
  • # of Applicants: 36,986
  • % Admitted: 48%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Total Enrollment: 44,246
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 32,684 (74%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 11,562 (26%)
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 23 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $65,905
  • 10 Year ROI*: $619,902
james-madison-university-logo

James Madison University is located on a beautiful, medium-sized campus in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Bachelor degree-seeking students at JMU have the option of pursuing a substance abuse education minor. Students can obtain this minor by completing 18 credit hours. The course will prepare students to take the Certified Prevention Professionals-ATOD examination.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $12,206
    • Out-of-State: $29,106
  • Average Net Price: $18,708
  • # of Applicants: 23,579
  • % Admitted: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,820
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 19,895 (91%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,925 (9%)
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $66,607
  • 10 Year ROI*: $591,238
cuny-john-jay-college-of-criminal-justice-logo

Bachelor of Arts students at this college are eligible to enroll in the minor in Addiction Studies Program. Here are some sample courses in this program: Drug Use and Abuse, Understanding Addictions through Research, and Chemical Dependency and the Dysfunctional Family. The program prepares students to become certified substance abuse counselors.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,470
    • Out-of-State: $15,420
  • Average Net Price: $3,814
  • # of Applicants: 20,568
  • % Admitted: 41%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Total Enrollment: 15,880
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 13,746 (87%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 2,134 (13%)
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $63,191
  • 10 Year ROI*: $616,654
ramapo-college-of-new-jersey-logo

Students who would like to pursue a career in substance abuse counseling can enroll in a bachelor degree program of their choice while minoring in substance use disorders. The mission of the program is to ensure that students become knowledgeable in substance use disorders, psychology, social work, and counseling. When students complete this program, they will be eligible to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse counselor.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $14,678
    • Out-of-State: $24,229
  • Average Net Price: $16,823
  • # of Applicants: 7,331
  • % Admitted: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,142
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,574 (91%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 568 (9%)
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $65,128
  • 10 Year ROI*: $583,988
colorado-state-university-fort-collins-logo

At this campus based in Fort Collins, Colorado, CSU is home to over 25,000 undergraduate students, and it boasts a 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. The public institution has 300 academic programs including a bachelor’s in psychology degree with a concentration in addictions counseling. This bachelor’s degree is perfect for students who would like to work in the clinical counseling field. Students who enroll in this bachelor’s program will complete coursework to qualify for the addiction counseling certification.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $11,901
    • Out-of-State: $30,622
  • Average Net Price: $16,793
  • # of Applicants: 28,319
  • % Admitted: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,426
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 25,789 (77%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 7,637 (23%)
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $68,542
  • 10 Year ROI*: $618,248
old-dominion-university-logo

ODU has a total student body of about 23,600 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1. Bachelor degree-seeking students can enroll in the addiction prevention and treatment minor program. Students will take courses such as Introduction to Substance Abuse and Human Behavior. The program can be completed online or on campus.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $10,680
    • Out-of-State: $30,840
  • Average Net Price: $16,681
  • # of Applicants: 13,761
  • % Admitted: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 23,675
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 19,176 (81%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 4,499 (19%)
  • Graduation Rate: 80%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $67,620
  • 10 Year ROI*: $609,476
washington-state-university-logo

WSU is a great choice for students who would like a career in clinical and health psychology. Students who are enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program have the option of pursing a minor in Addiction Studies. The program prepares students to become a chemical dependency professional. Throughout the program, students will study addictive behaviors.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $11,841
    • Out-of-State: $26,419
  • Average Net Price: $18,002
  • # of Applicants: 21,434
  • % Admitted: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,607
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 26,062 (82%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 5,545 (18%)
  • Graduation Rate: 60%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $71,310
  • 10 Year ROI*: $641,092
eastern-washington-university-logo-1

Founded in 1882, Eastern Washington University is the preferred choice for students who want to work in their desired field after graduation as 79% of alumni have jobs related to their major. Students who would like to maintain a career in the clinical counseling field can complete a Bachelor of Arts in Addiction Studies through the College of Social Sciences. As a student of this program, students will take courses such as Community Prevention Methods, Relapse Prevention, and Survey of Alcohol/Drug Problems. These courses prepare students for the Substance Use Disorder Professionals certification

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,526
    • Out-of-State: $25,057
  • Average Net Price: $12,764
  • # of Applicants: 5,297
  • % Admitted: 96%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,410
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 10,756 (87%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,654 (13%)
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $62,916
  • 10 Year ROI*: $578,104
suny-college-at-brockport-logo

This SUNY campus is located in Brockport, New York, within thirty minutes of Rochester and Buffalo. The public institution invites students to pursue the bachelor’s in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Studies degree program, which consists of courses such as Introduction to Alcohol and Other Drugs and Criminal Justice and Addictions. During this program, students will learn a wide variety of counseling techniques so that they can effectively meet clients’ unique needs.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,680
    • Out-of-State: $18,590
  • Average Net Price: $14,747
  • # of Applicants: 9,672
  • % Admitted: 55%
  • Retention Rate: 4%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,924
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,673 (84%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,251 (16%)
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $60,244
  • 10 Year ROI*: $543,452
university-of-central-arkansas-logo

UCA is a public college in a small town boasting a student population of 10,869. Students who would like to be an addiction counselor should consider enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies program, partially because it is the only college in the state that offers this degree. After graduating from this program, students will have the necessary knowledge to work as an addiction counselor in a wide variety of environments, from outpatient clinics to government agencies.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $9,188
    • Out-of-State: $15,998
  • Average Net Price: $14,796
  • # of Applicants: 5,397
  • % Admitted: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,869
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,134 (84%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,735 (16%)
  • Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $59,290
  • 10 Year ROI*: $533,716
keene-state-college-logo

KSC is located in Keene, New Hampshire. For students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, they have the option to enroll in a Minor in Addiction program. In this program, students may explore topics such as mental health treatment, co-occurring disorders, and counseling. The college has a total student body of about 3,000.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $14,568
    • Out-of-State: $23,756
  • Average Net Price: $19,805
  • # of Applicants: 4,978
  • % Admitted: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,502
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,378 (96%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 124 (4%)
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $60,546
  • 10 Year ROI*: $526,240
rhode-sland-college-logo

Situated on a multi-acre campus in Province, Rhode Island, RIC is known for offering over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. In the college’s Department of Psychology, there is a Bachelor of Science in Chemical/Addiction Studies that students can pursue. Some of the course requirements for this program are Drugs and Chemical Dependency, Social Psychology, and Psychopathy. The total number of credit hours for this program is 68.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $9,578
    • Out-of-State: $23,043
  • Average Net Price: $9,572
  • # of Applicants: 4,753
  • % Admitted: 78%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,523
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,432 (85%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,091 (15%)
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $60,859
  • 10 Year ROI*: $570,302
winona-state-university-logo

There are about 7,600 students who attend Winona State University. Students with a bachelor’s degree will qualify for the Addiction Counseling Certificate program. Students who graduate from this program will be able to work in settings such as hospitals, correctional facilities, and community mental health centers. The program is also offered entirely online.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $9,666
    • Out-of-State: $15,766
  • Average Net Price: $16,617
  • # of Applicants: 7,663
  • % Admitted: 68%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,605
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,978 (92%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 627 (8%)
  • Graduation Rate: 59%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $60,748
  • 10 Year ROI*: $541,012
university-of-houston-clear-lake-logo

Students who would like to become a licensed chemical dependency counselor should consider attending this university. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling program, which provides students with a solid foundation in the following areas: addiction counseling, intrapersonal communication, crisis intervention, and the psychology of addiction. The courses in this program will allow students to obtain licensure through the Texas State Department of Health Services. Once students are licensed, they will be able to help people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,310
    • Out-of-State: $20,746
  • Average Net Price: $9,215
  • # of Applicants: 1,402
  • % Admitted: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,082
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,439 (71%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 2,643 (29%)
  • Graduation Rate: NA
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $72,009
  • 10 Year ROI*: $683,230
west-virginia-university-logo

A minor in Addiction Studies from West Virginia University is designed for bachelor degree-seeking students who want to work in a substance use disorder treatment setting. Sample courses in this program include Families & Addictions, Introduction to Addiction Studies, and Addictions Screening & Assessment. Students must earn a minimum grade of C to pass all courses.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,976
    • Out-of-State: $25,320
  • Average Net Price: $12,743
  • # of Applicants: 18,202
  • % Admitted: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Total Enrollment: 26,839
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 21,086 (79%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 5,753 (21%)
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $69,962
  • 10 Year ROI*: $648,648
springfield-college-logo

This college is known for its Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a substance use disorder concentration. The school offers three options for completing this bachelor’s degree: fully online courses, hybrid evening courses, and hybrid weekend courses. By the end of the program, students will gain the required knowledge to become an effective addictions counselor.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $39,305
    • Out-of-State: $39,305
  • Average Net Price: $29,706
  • # of Applicants: 3,616
  • % Admitted: 68%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,110
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,175 (70%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 935 (30%)
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $58,498
  • 10 Year ROI*: $466,156
university-of-nevada-reno-logo

Based in Reno, Nevada, the University of Nevada is a preferred choice for students in the state. The school is also located within minutes of the National Automobile Museum, Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, and many more points of interest. The school offers a minor in Addiction Treatment Services to students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a health or social services field. The program is ideal for students who want to become a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,034
    • Out-of-State: $23,086
  • Average Net Price: $16,253
  • # of Applicants: 9,064
  • % Admitted: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Total Enrollment: 20,993
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,297 (82%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 3,696 (18%)
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $66,311
  • 10 Year ROI*: $598,098
frostburg-state-university-logo

Based in Frostburg, Maryland, FSU serves about 4,000 undergraduate students on a beautiful campus in the Appalachian highlands. While attending this prominent university, many students enjoy going to local parks such as New Germany and Deep Creek Lake State Park. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Psychology or Social Work with an emphasis in addictions counseling for students who wish to become a licensed addiction counselor. This program is an attractive degree option for several reasons. For starters, the program includes courses in key topics such as ethics, case management, treatment delivery, and individual counseling. In addition, the program prepares students for Maryland certification in counseling.

  • Tuition
    • In-State:$9,410
    • Out-of-State: $23,510
  • Average Net Price: $16,380
  • # of Applicants: 3,072
  • % Admitted: 80%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,178
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,429 (86%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 749 (14%)
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $63,980
  • 10 Year ROI*: $574,280
marshall-university-logo-1

MU is set among the rolling hills of Huntington, West Virginia. The college offers an Addiction Studies minor to bachelor-degree seeking students who are pursuing a career in substance use disorders. During this program, students will learn everything that they need to know about addiction disorders by taking classes like Contemporary Literature of Addiction and Substance Abuse in Social Work. To obtain this minor, students must complete a total of 15 credit hours.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,412
    • Out-of-State: $19,266
  • Average Net Price: $8,508
  • # of Applicants: 6,451
  • % Admitted: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,852
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,415 (73%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 3,437 (27%)
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $61,393
  • 10 Year ROI*: $579,898
minot-state-university-logo

MSU is a great choice for students who want to pursue a career in addiction counseling. Since the late 1980s, the college has been training prospective addiction counselors through its Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies program. Students enrolled in this program will take foundational coursework, which may include the following classes: Dynamics of Addiction, Social Problems, and Psychology of Adult & Aging. Due to the program’s focus on practical experience, students get to participate in mock therapy sessions as well as other innovative learning programs. Students also have the opportunity to engage in research concerning addiction.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,592
    • Out-of-State: $7,592
  • Average Net Price: $11,635
  • # of Applicants: 798
  • % Admitted: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,125
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,836 (91%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 289 (9%)
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 11 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $63,010
  • 10 Year ROI*: $583,560
indiana-wesleyan-university-marion-logo

Located in Marion, Indiana, IWU prides itself in offering academic programs that are based on a Christian perspective. The college offers an online Bachelor’s in Addictions Counseling program, enabling students to complete much of the degree virtually anywhere. Students will also need to complete an on-site practicum. Here are some of the required courses in the program: Addictions Theory, The Application of Counseling Skills, and Group and Family Counseling. Students who graduate from this exceptional program will have the necessary knowledge to work in several different settings including domestic violence shelters, the court system, and hospitals.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $27,296
    • Out-of-State: $27,296
  • Average Net Price: $21,619
  • # of Applicants: 4,363
  • % Admitted: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,165
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,762 (87%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 403 (13%)
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $66,949
  • 10 Year ROI*: $583,014
central-michigan-university-logo

Since CMU has an average first year to second year retention rate of over 65%, many students feel comfortable choosing to attend the school and more than 200,000 people have graduated from their programs. The School of Health Sciences offers a substance use disorder minor for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. In order to obtain this minor, students must complete 24 semester hours. Most students who select this minor are interested in a career in substance abuse prevention, treatment, or rehabilitation.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $12,960
    • Out-of-State: $24,120
  • Average Net Price: $15,266
  • # of Applicants: 16,411
  • % Admitted: 70%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 19,362
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,627 (75%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 4,735 (25%)
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $65,723
  • 10 Year ROI*: $596,166
worcester-state-university-logo

Many students choose to enroll in Worcester State University because the school offers 60 undergraduate majors. Students who are interested in a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, or Health Sciences should consider pursuing a minor in Addictions Counseling as well. The primary purpose of this minor is to teach students who want to assist people recovering from substance use disorders. After the completion of this program, students will understand what factors lead to addiction, know how to treat coexisting issues concerning addiction, and gain knowledge of the most effective way to communicate with patients and families.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $10,161
    • Out-of-State: $16,241
  • Average Net Price: $16,242
  • # of Applicants: 4,773
  • % Admitted: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,204
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 5,332 (86%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 872 (14%)
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $66,347
  • 10 Year ROI*: $598,502
bay-path-university-logo

At BPU, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with an emphasis in Foundations in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling. The primary goal of the program is to ensure that students cultivate professional skills to help people who are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction. Along with completing foundational coursework, students will also engage in a rigorous 300-hour internship. After completing this program, students will be eligible to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $35,081
    • Out-of-State: $35,081
  • Average Net Price: $22,740
  • # of Applicants: 1,123
  • % Admitted: 72%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,324
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,817 (55%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,507 (45%)
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $58,909
  • 10 Year ROI*: $498,130
university-of-southern-indiana-logo

The University of Southern Indiana is the ideal college for many students. They have a solid student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1. The university also offers a Bachelor’s in Social Work with a specialization in addictions counseling. As participants of this program, students will take require coursework that explore the effect of substance abuse on the family as well as a wide variety of treatment models in addictions and recovery. The successful completion of this program will also include an internship in an addiction counseling setting.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $8,546
    • Out-of-State: $19,856
  • Average Net Price: $13,360
  • # of Applicants: 4,614
  • % Admitted: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,705
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,162 (86%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,543 (14%)
  • Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 17 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $57,150
  • 10 Year ROI*: $518,060
metropolitan-state-university-logo

MSU is located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, within minutes from popular attractions like the Gateway Trail, Grand Avenue, and the Minnesota History Center. Offered through the College of Community Studies and Public Affairs, the Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Counseling program is the perfect degree option for students who want to become an alcohol and drug counselor. During the program, students will learn about ethical standards, professional counseling, evidence-based interventions, and many more alcohol and drug related topics.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,114
    • Out-of-State: $15,428
  • Average Net Price: $15,056
  • # of Applicants: 1,096
  • % Admitted: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,592
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,770 (89%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 822 (11%)
  • Graduation Rate: 34%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $64,847
  • 10 Year ROI*: $588,246
iona-college-logo

At Iona College, students can enjoy quick and easy access to New York City, providing them with an incredible opportunity to check out the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Edge NYC, as well as plenty of museums, Broadway, and other opportunities. The college offers students the opportunity to combine a bachelor’s degree with a Minor in Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies. The Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies program is perfect for students who want to become a professional Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor. In this program, students will explore interesting topics like health counseling, developmental psychology, and effective treatment methods.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $40,172
    • Out-of-State: $40,172
  • Average Net Price: $28,135
  • # of Applicants: 9,965
  • % Admitted: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,613
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,981 (83%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 632 (17%)
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $75,876
  • 10 Year ROI*: $646,220
eastern-kentucky-university-logo

Students who have a career goal of becoming an alcohol and drug counselor should take a good look at the college’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in substance abuse. The online program will focus on equipping students with the necessary knowledge to obtain the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner certification. Students will need to complete 120 credit hours to earn this bachelor’s degree.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $9,876
    • Out-of-State: $19,948
  • Average Net Price: $14,674
  • # of Applicants: 8,975
  • % Admitted: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 14,980
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 12,662 (85%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 2,318 (15%)
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $61,132
  • 10 Year ROI*: $552,624
st-catherine-university-logo

SCU is often praised for being the biggest private women’s college in the country, boasting a total student population of 4,401. Students who would like to work with people struggling with addition should consider enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in Social Work with a Minor in Chemical Dependency Counseling: Addiction and Recovery. The primary goal of this program is to educate students about the impact of addiction and recovery on everyday life. Sample courses in this program include Understanding Psychological Disorders and Co-Occurring Disorders and Pharmacology.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $40,984
    • Out-of-State: $40,984
  • Average Net Price: $20,172
  • # of Applicants: 2,458
  • % Admitted: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,401
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,153 (72%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,248 (18%)
  • Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $65,599
  • 10 Year ROI*: $575,302
lipscomb-university-logo

Known as a top Christian College, Lipscomb University boasts an incredible retention rate, with more than 80% of students successfully completing their first year and returning for their second. Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor’s in Psychology degree program can choose to pursue the Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Track. The track is designed to provide students with a comprehensive prospective on treating addiction. After the completion of this program, students can take the examination to become a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $33,424
    • Out-of-State: $33,424
  • Average Net Price: $26,013
  • # of Applicants: 3,481
  • % Admitted: 63%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,595
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,859 (62%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,736 (38%)
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $60,225
  • 10 Year ROI*: $498,198
chicago-state-university-logo

CSU is praised for providing 56 degree programs and 80 student organizations. The college offers a post-baccalaureate certificate training for students who want to become a professional alcohol and drug counselor. By engaging in course topics such as addition counseling, case management, ethics, and trauma-informed treatment, students will be prepared for the Certified Alcohol and Other Drugs of Abuse Examination. After completing the program and taking the examination to become an alcohol and drug abuse counselor, students will be able to gain employment in a variety of settings including government agencies, hospitals, schools, and community organizations. The program is accredited by The Illinois Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $11,366
    • Out-of-State: $18,734
  • Average Net Price: $9,820
  • # of Applicants: 3,126
  • % Admitted: 63%
  • Retention Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,039
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,108 (69%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 931 (31%)
  • Graduation Rate: 17%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 10 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $65,133
  • 10 Year ROI*: $612,050
ashland-university-logo

Located on a campus in Ashland, Ohio, Ashland University boasts an above average retention rate, with more than 75% of freshman completing their first year and returning for their second. For students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, the college allows them to obtain a minor in addictions through the Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services. When students receive a bachelor degree in behavioral sciences as well as an addictions minor, they will be eligible to obtain licensure for becoming a chemical dependency counselor. The minor in addictions for bachelor degree-seeking students offers internship opportunities along with counseling-related coursework.

  • Tuition:
    • In-State: $21,980
    • Out-of-State: $21,980
  • Average Net Price: $19,758
  • # of Applicants: 4,349
  • % Admitted: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,091
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,653 (72%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 1,438 (28%)
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $62,971
  • 10 Year ROI*: $550,678
grand-canyon-university-logo

Many students enjoy attending GCU because it’s located in Phoenix, Arizona, a city that has experienced a significant population growth in recent years. This private, Christian university embraces a total student population of 96,211, which includes students from a wide variety of denominations and backgrounds. Grand Canyon University has more than 200 programs for ambitious students who want to achieve big career goals. By pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling program, students can take the first step to becoming an addiction counselor. In this program, students will explore the fundamentals of addiction and substance use, multicultural counseling, and effective psychopharmacology treatments. The program will prepare students to obtain professional licensing and pursue a graduate degree in substance abuse counseling.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $17,800
    • Out-of-State: $17,800
  • Average Net Price: $21,332
  • # of Applicants: 37,456
  • % Admitted: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 96,211
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 58,997 (61%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 37,214 (39%)
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $62,140
  • 10 Year ROI*: $536,072
east-central-university-logo

ECU is most known for offering a host of online degree programs, and it also stands out for a student population of over 3,600 and a decent student-to-teacher ratio of 18 to 1. Many students love that this university is within close proximity to nearby attractions such as Peach Tree Farm, a popular roadside stand that offers summer produce and delicious peach ice cream. At East Central University, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Human Services Counseling degree with a concentration in rehabilitation to prepare them for a career in the human services field. Students can also obtain an addictions minor if they are pursuing this degree option. The addictions minor includes courses such as Introduction to Addictions, Intervention Techniques, and Addictions & Society.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,052
    • Out-of-State: $16,412
  • Average Net Price: $9,893
  • # of Applicants: 1,178
  • % Admitted: 59%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,613
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,981 (83%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 632 (17%)
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 18 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $59,956
  • 10 Year ROI*: $559,988
martin university logo

MU, a private institution located in Indianapolis, IN has a lot to offer to those looking to enter the field of addictions counseling. For undergraduates just getting into counseling, there is a full degree that will provide graduates with access to entry-level positions in the field. And for those looking to continue onto their master’s, there is a program for them as well. Though the school is small, it offers a great location in the state capital, where you can start a fulfilling career in addiction counseling.

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $13,200
    • Out-of-State: $13,200
  • Average Net Price: $14,998
  • # of Applicants: NA
  • % Admitted: Open
  • Retention Rate: 38%
  • Total Enrollment: 279
    • Undergraduate Enrollment: 214 (77%)
    • Graduate Enrollment: 65 (23%)
  • Graduation Rate: 9%
  • Student Faculty Ratio: 22 to 1
  • Average Grads Salary: $50,617
  • 10 Year ROI*: $446,178

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What Can You Do with A Bachelor’s Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling?

Students can pursue many careers with a bachelor’s degree in substance abuse counseling. Most people who obtain this degree work as substance abuse counselors. Graduates of this program can also work as social workers, community service managers, mental health counselors, and rehabilitation counselors.

The bachelor’s degree in addiction studies allows people to work in the following settings: hospitals, residential facilities, outpatient care centers, and government agencies, among others.

Bachelor’s in Addiction Studies Sample Courses

Students must complete their general education requirements and then they will complete the core requirements for their major. Here are some courses that you may take:

  • Diversity in Human Services
  • Advance Substance Use Counseling
  • Family Intervention
  • Advocacy in Human Services
  • Adolescence and Addiction
  • Documentation in Human Services
  • Substance Abuse Interventions

What to Look for in An Addiction Counseling Program

There are several things that students need to look for in an addiction counseling program. Students should take a look at the courses associated with the degree in the school catalog in order to ensure that they are related to the career they plan on pursing.

Students should also review the cost of the program to ensure that it’s within their budget and find a program that has appropriate accreditation. You may be able to find a list of appropriate schools on your state’s board of counseling licensure website.


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