Post-Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling

(18 credits)

The Post-Graduate Certificate Addiction Counseling is designed to prepare professionals for specialized clinical work with clients suffering from substance use disorders (e.g., alcohol or drug abuse/dependence, sometimes termed addictive behaviors or chemical dependency). The program is intended for individuals who already have some background in a counseling-related field.

Upon completing the program of study in Addiction Counseling, students will:

• Have completed all educational requirements for certification or licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the State of Connecticut as well as certification by the Connecticut Certification Board (CCB), an affiliate of the IC&RC. Licensure (LADC) is available only to persons holding an appropriate master’s degree; those with lesser academic credentials may, however, pursue certification. Supervised experience in the field and a passing score on the International Certification Examination are also necessary before licensure or certification may be conferred.
• Be eligible for entry-level positions as addiction counselors and may immediately pursue the CCB credential of Counselor in Training (CIT).

Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (counseling, social work, family therapy, psychology, human services, expressive arts therapies, public health and nursing) from a nationally or regionally accredited institution approved by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).*
• Graduate-level coursework in counseling theories, counseling techniques, and psychopathology is required, either as part of the master’s degree program or separately.*
• Proficiency in the business application of personal computers.
• For non-native English-speakers, a minimum score of 550 paper-based, 80 internet-based, or 213 computer-based on the Test of English as a Foreign Language .
• Proof of immunization in accordance with Connecticut state requirements.
• Applicants intending to use VA benefits submit a copy of their certificate of eligibility to a school certifying official.

The applicant must submit:

• • Official transcripts from all nationally and regionally accredited degree-granting institutions, approved by the USDE or CHEA, attended.
  • A personal statement (of 250-500 words, double-spaced) on their professional career interests and reasons for pursuing the credential.
  • Two letters of recommendation from persons who can judge the applicant’s suitability. Ideally, one of these will be from a current or former professor, the other from a current or former supervisor, but having both come from the same type of source is also acceptable.
  • Resume or C.V.

*Applicants who hold an appropriate degree, but lack one or more of these courses, may (with the approval of program director and department chair) be permitted to complete that coursework as part of the certificate program. This would increase the total number of credits required for program completion.

Admission is competitive, and the entire application will be considered. Meeting the basic standards does not guarantee admission. Conversely, students falling slightly short of the preferred standards may be able to qualify based on other achievements.

Tuition and Fees

Costs vary by graduate program; please consult https://www.albertus.edu/admission-aid/business-office/accelerated-degree-program/graduate-tuition-fees.php.

• Application Fee: $50.00
• Tutorial Surcharge: $500.00 (for student requested tutorial)

Fees and rates are subject to change.

Accreditation

Albertus Magnus College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Post-Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling is accredited by the State of Connecticut Office of Higher Education.

Program Format

Classes are offered in an accelerated degree format, which consists of five, eight-week modules during the calendar year. The program is designed to be completed in one academic year and is a precursor to obtaining certification or licensure as an addiction, substance abuse, or drug and alcohol abuse counselor.

Academic Advisement

Admitted students are assigned a faculty advisor, typically the program director. Together the student and advisor will develop a program of study. Throughout the program the advisor will assist students with course planning, registration and regular academic review.

Course Load

Students may register for no more than 6 credits per mod. or 9 credits per semester.

Completion Requirements

• Completion of all requirements within twelve months of matriculation.
•  Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0.
•  Minimum grade in each course of 2.0.
• Payment of all tuition and fees.

PROGRAM OF STUDY

REQUIRED CORE (18 credits)

PY 583 - Drugs and Behavior I: Basic Science
PY 584 - Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling
PY 585 - Drugs and Behavior II: Applications
PY 586 - Culture, Gender, and Special Populations in Addictions
PY 587 - Addiction Counseling I: Core Concepts and Competencies
PY 588 - Clinical Assessment of Substance Use Disorders
PY 589 - Addiction Counseling II: Advanced Techniques
PY 591 - Treatment Planning and Evaluation in Addictions Counseling