The Addiction Studies Certificate and Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certificate programs offer students a path that prepares them to meet MN state Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT) education requirements for licensure as an alcohol and drug counselor (LADC). The Addiction Studies Certificate provides the coursework. The Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certificate provides the coursework and required practicum hours. Both of these certificates can be embedded in the B.A. in Psychology degree for those needing to complete a bachelor's degree.

To prepare for graduate study and entry-level social service careers in a variety of addiction treatment settings students will:

• Demonstrate evidence-based approaches to addictions counseling through the application of addictions research and theories to practice.
• Articulate ethical approaches to addictions counseling, informed by intercultural competency, Christian perspectives, and state and federal laws and regulations.
• Synthesize the twelve core functions of an addictions counselor with personal, interpersonal, and professional skills.
• Utilize knowledge about diversity in addictions counseling with individuals and families.
• Integrate personal faith and/or spirituality with personal and professional development and practice in addictions counseling.

Admission Requirements

The Certificate in Addiction Studies program will consider applicants who:

• Meet the general requirements for admission to the College of Adult & Professional Studies.
• Have completed at least 60 semester credits.
• Have a combined cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale on previous academic work.

Students who have not achieved the minimum GPA, grade standards, or other assessment criteria may still apply to be considered for provisional acceptance. See Admission Categories.

Certificate Requirements

The required curriculum for the certificate in addiction studies comprises an 18 semester credit sequence of courses.