Social and behavioral sciences - Addiction psychology or applied behavior

This master’s in addiction studies equips you to pursue state licensure and become an addiction counselor. The courses in this program meet the educational requirements for national certification, qualifying you for licensure in nearly every state upon graduation. Upon graduation, you’ll be qualified to supervise bachelor’s-level clinicians, oversee clinical programs, provide case management and engage in advocacy and marketing. After obtaining licensure you can find employment in many settings, including substance misuse treatment centers, community mental health agencies, hospitals, high school and university counseling centers and military affairs hospitals.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

As an ideal candidate for this program, you should have a strong interest in assisting individuals struggling with addiction and a desire to pursue licensure as an addiction counselor. Although completing an undergraduate degree before this program is required, a background in behavioral health is preferred but not mandatory. Experience working in a behavioral health facility, whether as a technician, case manager or in a similar role, would be highly beneficial as well. Upon graduating, you’ll be prepared to advance or begin your career path toward many roles that support addiction recovery.

Substance abuse counseling: An in-demand career

This master’s in addiction psychology combines cutting-edge research from internationally recognized experts in addiction with the clinical expertise of licensed addiction counselors. These professionals bring decades of experience in providing addiction treatment. This unique blend of research and clinical knowledge sets the program apart from other addiction psychology programs, giving you a distinct advantage in the field. Additionally, job prospects are expected to be in demand for counselors who hold active licensure. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of addiction counselors is expected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, which is a much quicker rate than other occupations.

Is licensure or certification required to practice as an addiction counselor?

Yes. All states require either licensure or certification to practice as an addiction counselor. Most states have multiple levels of licensure, typically a bachelor’s-level license that requires ongoing supervision and a master’s-level license that allows independent practice. For example, Arizona has two licenses at the master’s level:

LASAC – Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor: Requires a master’s degree in a behavioral-health related field (such as the master’s in addiction psychology) and a passing score on an advanced substance abuse licensure exam administered by the IC&RC, NAADAC or NBCC. Counselors at this level cannot practice independently and must be supervised by a LISAC.

LISAC – Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor: Requires a master’s degree in a behavioral-health related field, an active LASAC credential, and 1600 hours of supervised work experience that includes 100 hours of clinical supervision.

ASU’s Master of Science in addiction psychology covers the seven core content areas required for licensure in the State of Arizona, as well as the educational content requirements for most states in the U.S. ASU is also pursuing NASAC and NAADAC certification. Please visit our professional licensure page for the most up-to-date information on requirements for licensure in your state.