The Certificate in Addiction Studies offered by the School of Behavioral Sciences at California Southern University is designed for individuals who are pursuing undergraduate studies, desire curriculum focused on the specific and practical area of addiction, and would like to pursue CADC I & II Certification. This certificate is appropriate for demonstrating mastery of a topic and/or applications relevant to personal knowledge, professional development, and preparation for future study.
The undergraduate Certificate in Addiction Studies at California Southern University is not a graduate degree. Upon completion of the program requirements, learners earn a certificate focused in the particular area of study.
Quick Facts:
- Credits required: 27
- Cost per credit: $425
- Program length: 1½-2 years  (full-time status)
Time to certificate completion can be accelerated by taking multiple courses in a term and through credits accepted in transfer.
What you’ll learn
Develop an understanding of the theoretical and applied knowledge of addiction and the differentiation of alcohol and other drug effects on the various parts of the body and brain.
Provide learners with a basic knowledge of addictive behavior to better understand and treat individuals with substance use disorders and those influenced by this behavior.
Provide learners with a critically examined value system and professional code of ethics essential to the practice of substance abuse counseling.
Improve the learner’s analytical and critical thinking skills by providing an understanding of theory and applications as related to the process of addiction.
Enable learners to integrate formal academic learning with personal experiences so that learning becomes meaningful, personalized and relates to one’s professional and practical needs.
Promote the development of an appreciation for leadership and case management skills critical to the success in a multicultural and diverse environment to function as an effective addiction professional.
Career Outcomes
Counselor
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADC I) / Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC II)
Case manager
Certificate in Addiction Studies Requirements
| Certificate Requirements | Credits |
|---|---|
| Required Core Courses | 27 |
| TOTAL FOR THE CPAS |
27 |
Courses + Credits
CalSouthern’s Certificate in Addiction Studies is a 27-credit program comprised of the following required courses and optional elective course:
Required Core Courses
- PSY 2306  Foundations of Addiction — 3 credits
- PSY 2307  The Physiology and Pharmacology of Substance Use — 3 credits
- PSY 2309A Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 2316  Personal and Professional Growth — 3 credits
- PSY 2317  Individual, Family and Group Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 2318  Culture and Diversity in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 2507  Case Management: Assessment, Treatment, Planning, Relapse Prevention, and Aftercare — 3 credits
- PSY 2508  Supervised Practicum and Fieldwork in Addiction Studies — 6 credits
Optional Course
- PSY 2315  CADC Exam Preparation Course — 3 credits
Download the University Catalog for full course descriptions, prerequisite information, and program details.
I had a wonderful experience and loved the flexibility of the program. I could go at my own pace, was able to work ahead when I needed to, and to take extra time when I needed to. The faculty mentors were fantastic and very helpful and inspiring. I feel like I got an excellent education for an affordable price and I appreciate everything that it brought to my life.
– Jinxi Caddel, School of Behavioral Sciences
Ready to get back to your dreams? We can help!
Contact us to learn more about our online Certificate in Addiction Studies.
Call us at : 1.800.477.2254 | Email: admissions@calsouthern.edu
Accreditation & Approvals
California Southern University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), which is one of six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Regional accreditation is the most highly respected and recognized form of accreditation in the United States, and it provides students with a number of important benefits and opportunities. www.wscuc.org
Please visit the Accreditation & Licensure page to learn more.