The Certificate in Addiction Counseling Program accommodates those individuals seeking a baccalaureate completion option, professionals seeking to re-specialize in addiction, or those requiring a terminal program at the certificate level leading to certification and/or licensure in many states and other countries. Students achieve competency in gradual stages, integrating 467 hours of academic learning and 1,111 hours of clinical practice. Students are prepared for entry-level counseling positions based on a range of knowledge and skills, including Twelve Step facilitation.

Overview

• Appropriate for those seeking entry-level counseling positions as well as for those with related advanced degrees seeking credentials in addiction counseling
• Full and part-time student enrollment accepted each semester
• Offered at Hazelden's campus in Center City, Minnesota. Not available through distance learning.

Admission Criteria

• Two years' post secondary education--with a minimum of 60 semester credits, or 90 quarter credits, or 900 semester hours
• Two years' freedom from chemical use problems, including the use of maintenance drugs, prior to clinical process courses
• English proficiency. An applicant who does not speak English as a first language is required to pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)--with a score of 213 or more on the computer-based test, or 550 on the written test. Since the test is given on a limited basis each year, and preregistration is required, the student should allow sufficient time for the results to be included with the enrollment application. A TOEFL score is not required if the applicant has a bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university or if the student has completed a bachelor's degree or higher in English in another country, as evidenced by an official transcript in English.
• It is preferred that applicants have:
  • Prior personal or professional knowledge of addiction and recovery
  • Some prior educational and/or clinical experience in alcohol and drug dependency or human services
  • Basic computer skills (i.e. Power Point/Word)

Full-time course outline    

Licensure
Graduates of the Certificate in Addiction Counseling program meet requirements for licensure in Minnesota for alcohol and drug dependency counseling. As of July 1, 2008, candidates for Minnesota licensure must hold a bachelor's degree. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. It is the candidate's responsibility to check licensing requirements in his or her respective state.

Undergraduate Credits

Graduate School of Addiction Studies - main page

search terms: addiction studies, addiction counselors, addiction counseling, alcohol and drug dependency