Be part of the solution to one of the U.S.’s most pressing health care crises — the shortage of qualified counselors trained in evidence-based addiction and substance abuse treatment. This certificate bridges the gap between research and clinical practice, strengthening your ability to support individuals with co-occurring disorders and apply evidence-based treatments. You’ll also be prepared to address the challenges associated with the opioid epidemic and marijuana legalization.
The demand for qualified substance abuse, behavior disorder and mental health counselors continues to grow with the increasing need for services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in these fields is expected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. Earning an education beyond the bachelor’s level is a key step toward advancing in this field.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
If you have a bachelor's degree in health, behavioral health or a related field, this certificate can help you advance your counseling career. It’s also an ideal fit for behavioral health professionals looking to specialize in substance abuse treatment or better serve their clients.
You can earn this standalone certificate or add it to your ASU online graduate program. It pairs well with:
- Doctor of Behavioral Health – clinical
- Master of Science in forensic psychology
- Master of Science in nursing
- Master of Science in psychology
- Master of Social Work
Note: All U.S. states require licensure or certification for addiction counselors. Most states offer multiple levels of licensure, typically a bachelor's-level license that requires ongoing supervision and a master's-level license for independent practice. Visit our professional licensure page for the most up-to-date requirements in your state.
Addiction and substance abuse are among the nation’s leading public health concerns, driving demand for qualified counselors. Arizona State University’s online graduate certificate in addiction and substance-use related disorders equips you with the expertise to start or advance your counseling career. You’ll learn evidence-based interventions from expert researchers and licensed counselors with decades of experience in the field.
The curriculum offers focused training in evidence-based substance abuse treatment. Courses explore assessments for diagnosis and treatment, common substance abuse comorbidities, relapse prevention and psychopharmacology. This 21-credit certificate, completed in just two semesters, provides a fast track to entering the addiction counseling field.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
Applicants to the addiction and substance-use related disorders graduate certificate must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") from a bachelor's or higher degree in any health, behavioral health or counseling related field.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- One letter of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
This scholarship, which offers recipients funding of up to $6,500, is dedicated to supporting up to seven graduate certificate students with financial need and a personal connection to addiction and recovery. This funding will allow students financial and time flexibility to devote effort to their studies. Visit the scholarship’s information page for full details on application criteria and expectations, how to apply and more.
We strongly recommend you visit our state authorization page to learn how ASU is authorized to operate in your state, policies for out-of-state students and program exceptions.
Program recognition
ASU is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. The rigorous review process to achieve this standing ensures that you’ll receive a consistent, reliable and quality learning experience that advances your understanding of addiction and co-occurring disorders-related issues.
Professional licensure and certification
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”