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. 

Program Outcomes

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

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

Admission Requirements

The Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling 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.
• Submit an essay addressing the following topic areas:
  • What is your motivation for completing the program? Include life experiences that contribute to your decision to complete the program.
  • What are your career goals/aspirations? How do you intend to use this education after completion of the program?

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 alcohol and drug counseling comprises a 26 semester credit sequence of courses. A Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) license requires completion of the 18 credits required for the certificate in addiction studies, the 880 hour practicum sequence, a bachelor’s degree, and a passing score on the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT) exam. Students with bachelor’s degrees have the option of taking the practicum for graduate credit.