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.

The California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) and the Education Board (CCAPP Institute) have granted approval to California Southern University’s Pre-Baccalaureate Certificate Program 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 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.

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.

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.

Quick Facts:

  • Credits required: 27
  • Cost per credit: $425
  • Program length: 1½-2 years  (full-time status)

Time to certificate completion can be shortened by accelerating completion of courses and through credits accepted in transfer.

Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.

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: AZ, CO, IN, MA, NV, UT.

CalSouthern has not 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: AK, AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY.

Last update: 12/7/2023

Substance Abuse Counselor Licensure Contact Information 

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.

Potential career paths may be found in the following industries:

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADC I) / Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II (CADC II)

Case manager

CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement.

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 3306   Foundations of Addiction — 3 credits
  • PSY 3309 Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
  • PSY 3318   Culture and Diversity in Addiction Counseling — 3 credits
  • PSY 3307   The Physiology and Pharmacology of Substance Use — 3 credits
  • PSY 3317   Individual, Family and Group Counseling — 3 credits
  • PSY 3507   Case Management: Assessment, Treatment, Planning, Relapse Prevention, and Aftercare — 3 credits
  • PSY 3316  Personal and Professional Growth in the Field of Addiction — 3 credits
  • PSY 3508   Supervised Practicum and Fieldwork in Addiction Studies — 6 credits

Optional Course

  • PSY 3315   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 C., School of Behavioral Sciences, 2020

Ready to pursue your educational goals? 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

NAADAC approved education provider
CCAPP approved education provider

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 Addiction Studies provides 315 hours of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) specific education required for Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor I/II as required by CCAPP. 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 www.ccapp.us and/or www.naadac.org for more information. A minimum grade of “C” is required in all courses to earn the Certificate in 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 states. CalSouthern does not accept applications from residents of Massachusetts, New York, and certain foreign countries.

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