Best Online Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling Degree Programs

Addiction counselors help clients who struggle with alcohol or substance abuse. The counselors help clients manage their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors related to their addictions. The goal is to understand the problem, provide therapy, stop harmful behaviors, and help clines overcome their addictions.

To work as an addiction counselor, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree will qualify you to work as a(n) addiction/substance abuse counselor, case manager, prevention specialist, rehabilitation specialist, or in a similar role. These professionals are employed by social service agencies, treatment centers, healthcare facilities, and nonprofit organizations. To find out how you can earn a bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling online, check out the resources below.

What Will I Study in an Online Addiction Counseling Bachelor’s Degree Program?

An online bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling is a four-year program that usually requires 120-130 credit hours. The program teaches students about the emotional, mental, and behavioral aspects of addiction, as well as how to assess, diagnose, provide therapy, and prevent contributory behaviors, to help individuals overcome their addiction.

Many online bachelor’s programs in addiction counseling include opportunities for clinical experience. Clinical experience may come in the form of a practicum, internship, job opportunity, or period of observation. Typically, because the course is online, your clinical will take place within your own community. It's always in a supervised setting if students are interacting with clients.

You'll take a variety of required and elective classes during the four years of an online bachelor's program. Some of the major-specific classes you might take are:

• Introduction to Addiction Counseling

• Substance Abuse and Addiction

• Assessment and Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders

• Theories of Addiction and Treatment

• Ethics and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling

• Group and Individual Therapy for Addiction

• Case Management and Treatment Planning

• Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders

• Prevention and Health Promotion in Substance Abuse Treatment

Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling

Admission requirements for a bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling may vary depending on the educational institution. As a general guide, the following items are often required:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• GPA of at least 2.5-3.0

• ACT or SAT scores

• Letters of recommendation

• Personal statement or essay

• Completed application form

• In-person or virtual interview

• College transcripts (if transferring)

It is important to check with the specific online program you are applying to for their specific requirements. Many schools now use the Common App, but some still have their own application process.

To make your application as competitive as possible, use the personal essay to showcase why you have an interest in addiction counseling. It’s alright to share personal struggles when applying for this type of program.

List of Addiction Counseling Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in addiction counseling today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Liz Norris, LPCC

Liz Norris is a highly skilled and compassionate Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has devoted her career to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives. After receiving her master's degree in counseling, Liz worked in various clinical settings, including community mental health clinics and private practices. Throughout her career, Liz recognized the importance of providing resources and support to aspiring counselors and psychologists. This led to her involvement with CounselingPsychology.org, a website dedicated to helping individuals navigate the journey towards becoming a mental health professional. Liz is a mother of three who enjoys writing, tennis, and volunteering in her community.