Certificate in Addiction Studies (CPAS)
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 certificate meets the 315 hours of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) specific education required for Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor I/II as required by CCAPP. This certificate also meets nationally approved standards of education developed for the addiction/substance use disorders counseling profession.
California Southern University is approved by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). CCAPP and the Education Board (CCAPP Institute) have granted approval to CalSouthern’s Certificate in Addiction Studies (CPAS). CalSouthern is also recognized as an Approved Academic Education Provider for The Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). Individuals who are interested in becoming California and/or nationally certified, and those who want to advance or maintain certification are encouraged to contact www.ccapp.us and/or www.naadac.org for more information. A minimum grade of ‘C’ in all courses is required to earn this certificate.
The undergraduate Certificate in Addiction Studies at California Southern University is not a degree. Upon completion of the program requirements, learners earn a certificate focused in the particular area of study.
United States: CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum meets the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in the field of addiction treatment in the following states: CA, MD. Some states may have additional requirements that are not part of the curriculum, but which can be satisfied at CalSouthern.
CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum does not meet the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in the field of addiction treatment in the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY. This program does not accept applications from prospective learners who reside in these states.
Other Jurisdictions: This program does not accept applications from prospective learners who reside outside of the jurisdictions listed above.
Last update: 7/1/2024
Given that license eligibility varies by jurisdiction and is subject to change, learners are advised to contact state licensing agencies directly for details regarding all requirements.
- Credits Required: 27
- Cost Per Credit: $425
- Program Length: 1.5 years (full-time status)1
- Max Transfer Credits: 9 credits2
1Many factors can impact your time to completion such as course loads, course extensions or repetitions, transfer or proficiency credits, and approved leaves of absence. The program length provided does not include these adjustments. Program completion time also depends on an individual learner’s time needed to complete the required practicum course.
2Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
What you’ll study
Work to 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.
A basic knowledge of addictive behavior to better understand and treat individuals with substance use disorders and those influenced by this behavior.
A critically examined value system and professional code of ethics essential to the practice of substance abuse counseling.
Improving analytical and critical thinking skills by providing an understanding of theory and applications as related to the process of addiction.
Integrating 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 and how to function as an effective addiction professional.
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:
- PSY 3306Foundations of Addiction — 3 credits
- PSY 3309Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 3318Culture and Diversity in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 3307The Physiology and Pharmacology of Substance Use — 3 credits
- PSY 3317Individual, Family and Group Counseling — 3 credits
- PSY 3507Case Management: Assessment, Treatment, Planning, Relapse Prevention, and Aftercare — 3 credits
- PSY 3316Personal and Professional Growth in the Field of Addiction — 3 credits
- PSY 3508Supervised Practicum and Fieldwork in Addiction Studies — 6 credits
- PSY 3315CADC Exam Preparation Course — 3 credits
View the University Catalog for full course descriptions, prerequisite information, and program details.
View Catalog
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.
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Accreditation & Approvals
California Southern University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
The Certificate in Advanced Addiction Studies provides 270 hours of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) specific education. Optional practicum course experience may be required for some levels of certification. This program is approved by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) and the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). For more information on how to become California and/or nationally certified/licensed, contact ccapp.us and/or www.naadac.org directly. A minimum grade of “B” is required in all courses to earn the graduate Certificate in Advanced Addiction Studies.
Please visit the Accreditation & Licensure page to learn more.
CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all jurisdictions. CalSouthern does not accept applications from residents of Massachusetts, New York, and certain foreign countries.
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