If you are interested in helping people overcome their struggle with drugs and alcohol, earning an online substance use counseling degree can launch you into a rewarding career. An associate degree in substance use and addictions counseling offers a pathway to entry-level positions or a head start towards a bachelor's degree.
Explore our ranking of the top programs. Learn about career and salary prospects and what to expect from an online degree in this field.
Popular Online Psychology Bachelor's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Top 5 Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addiction Counseling
#4 The Top 5 Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
Rio Salado College
- Tempe, AZ
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
An Associate in Applied Science in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders is offered online at Rio Salado College. The program coursework is designed to support students in learning to work professionally in the field of addiction and substance use disorders. Professionals currently working in the field may also enroll in courses for continuing education and professional development. Courses are comprehensive and designed to support graduates in entering the field of human services ready to work directly with individuals and families working to recover from the impact that addiction has had on their health, relationships, and personal growth. The program includes a Certificate of Completion in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders Level I and II.
Courses include: Foundations of Addictions and Substance Use Disorders; Communication Skills in Treating Addiction; Pharmacology of Substances of Abuse and Dependency; Professional Ethics in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders; Principles of Self-Help Groups; AIDS and Addiction; Beginning Clinical Documentation Skills; Theories and Techniques in the Treatment of Addictions; Family Dynamics and Addiction; Therapeutic Intervention Models; Introduction to Psychology; Counseling Multicultural and Diverse Populations; Relapse, Recovery and Addiction; Co-Occurring Disorders; and Group Interventions.
- Cost: $215 / Credit Hour
- Credits Required: 61 – 65
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 The Top 5 Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
Central Texas College
- Killeen, TX
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Central Texas College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency Specialization online for 60 credits. The program coursework focuses on training students to be prepared to work with individuals and families across the lifespan with an awareness of how addiction can impact any family at any time. Central Texas College has a strong history of serving military personnel over the last 50 years. Central Texas College works to help all students be successful and strives to make associate degrees convenient and accessible for all students, wherever they are in the world, through their online programming.
Courses include: Interviewing and Communication Skills; Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders; Pharmacology of Addiction; Learning Frameworks; Health Psychology; Problems of Children and Adolescents; Assessment Skills of Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions; Crisis Intervention; Addicted Family Intervention; Counseling Theories; Abnormal Psychology; Dynamics of Group Counseling; Principles of Behavior Management and Modification; and Counseling Alcohol and Other Drug Addictions.
- Cost: $235 / Credit Hour
- Credits Required: 60
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
At BestCounselingDegrees.net, we use data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. The most important metric in our rankings -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, consult our ranking methodology.
Why Get an Online Associate Degree in Substance Use and Addiction Counseling?
Earning an online associate degree in substance use and addictions counseling offers a flexible and convenient way to enter a promising career that can provide significant personal and professional rewards.
- Employment Outlook: Because you can practice in many states without a master's degree, an online associate degree can quickly launch you into a career. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of these counselors to grow by 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the national average for all occupations.
- Positive Impact: Most substance use and addiction counselors are motivated by a strong commitment to making a difference in the lives of people struggling with addiction to drugs and alcohol and helping them achieve healthier lifestyles.
- Benefits of Online Learning: An associate degree enables you to complete coursework at your own pace and from anywhere with an internet connection. Online learning offers an appealing option for students who need to work or care for families while earning their degree.
What to Expect from an Online Associate Degree in Substance Use and Addiction Counseling
An associate degree in substance use and addictions counseling, which typically requires 60 credits, can transfer toward the first two years of a bachelor's degree or provide the necessary training for entry-level positions.
A two-year associate degree comprises general education requirements and courses related to addiction studies and counseling. Some online associate programs may require on-campus components or in-person field experiences. In some states, an associate degree in substance use and addiction counseling qualifies you to take the exam for the National Certified Addiction Counselor Level I designation.
You may choose an associate of art degree emphasizing liberal arts, an associate of science degree requiring more science and math, or an applied associate degree that focuses on workforce preparedness. Attending a regionally accredited school, regardless of the program type, ensures that prospective employers, licensing boards, financial aid institutions, and four-year institutions recognize your degree.
Popular Substance Use and Addictions Counseling Courses
In addition to general education courses, an associate degree in substance use and addictions counseling combines the basics of mental health counseling theories and techniques with coursework that explores general and abnormal psychology, causes of substance-related and addiction disorders, pharmacology, treatment plans, and ethical issues for counselors.
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Introduction to Psychology
This foundational course explores psychology as the scientific study of mental processes and human behavior. Topics include learning, memory, cognition, emotion, perception, motivation, human development, and the biological basis of behavior.
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Pharmacology: Addiction Counseling
This course overviews the effects of drugs on physiological and behavioral levels. Students explore psychological and medical applications and limitations of drugs used in addiction counseling.
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Foundations of Addictions and Substance Use Disorders
This survey course covers the history, principles, and symptoms of addiction. The course introduces basic screening and assessment tools used to diagnose and treat individuals with substance use, addiction, and co-occurring disorders.
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Professional Ethics in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders
Students receive an introduction to the ethical and legal issues commonly faced by mental health professionals in the addictions field. Issues discussed include confidentiality, informed consent, and professional codes of conduct.
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Addiction Counseling Field Practicum
Taken in the final semester, students work under supervision in mental health settings that serve individuals seeking treatment for substance use and addictions. Students participate in weekly seminars relating their field experiences to principles of counseling and addiction theories and treatments.
How Much Do Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling Cost?
Median Annual Tuition and Fees for Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
$11,279
Median Student Budget for Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
$1,576
Source: NCES, 2020
The average annual tuition and fees for an associate degree at a two-year community college runs about $5,000 less than at a four-year college or university. An online associate program can help reduce costs by eliminating expenses related to commuting and by accommodating the needs of students who must work while earning their degree.
Before enrolling in an online substance use and addiction counseling degree, students should always research opportunities for financial assistance. In addition to federal and private student loans, which may require repayment, many schools and private organizations offer both need-based and merit-based scholarships and grants. In recent years, many states have introduced tuition-free community college programs for in-district residents.
Careers with an Online Associate Degree in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
Earning an associate degree in substance use and addictions counseling serves as a launch pad into mental health careers in public and private settings. While an associate degree provides the training for many entry-level positions, remember that some states require a bachelor's or graduate degree to work as a licensed substance use counselor.
Substance Use Counselor
Addiction counselors work with individuals from all age groups to evaluate and assess their mental and physical conditions and addiction-related behavior. Based on these assessments, they develop and implement treatment and recovery plans. Depending on the state, these counselors may need a bachelor's or master's degree to practice.
- Median Annual Salary: $53,710
- Projected New Openings Between 2022-2032: 71,500
Psychiatric Technician
Psychiatric technicians work under the supervision of psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses to observe and provide direct care to individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions, including substance use disorders.
- Median Annual Salary: $39,610
- Projected New Openings Between 2022-2032: 12,000
Social and Human Service Assistant
Working in various settings, from government and nonprofit organizations to social service agencies, these professionals help clients qualify for benefits and services. They provide support and resolve issues related to substance use, mental health conditions, housing, and rehabilitation.
- Median Annual Salary: $41,410
- Projected New Openings Between 2022-2032: 35,600
Community Health Worker
Community health workers implement wellness programs, provide basic health screenings and referrals, and advocate for individuals who need healthcare and mental health services. They often work with vulnerable and underserved populations.
- Median Annual Salary: $48,200
- Projected New Openings Between 2022-2032: 9,400
Common Questions About Online Associate Degrees in Substance Use and Addictions Counseling
Each state licensing board establishes eligibility standards for certification. Depending on your state, an associate degree may serve as the minimum education requirement for licensure. Applicants with the appropriate degree apply for the certified substance use counselor designation by passing the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals or other state-approved exams.
Substance use counselors benefit from a fulfilling career in a fast-growing field. They help others improve their lives, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and recover from addiction. They also benefit from a field projected to grow 18% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the job growth for all occupations. BLS projects 71,500 for substance use, behavioral disorders, and mental health counselors.
The experience and education you need as a substance use counselor can provide a foundation for further education and exploring other counseling specialties.
According to Payscale data from April 2024, substance use counselors earn an average annual salary of $46,050. Salaries for substance use counselors depend on several factors, including degree level, type of certification, and years of experience. For example, those just beginning their careers make approximately $39,000 annually, while the highest-paid substance use counselors earn about $68,000.
Substance use counselors experience several challenges, such as stress and burnout. Mental health organizations that employ these professionals are sometimes underfunded, resulting in heavy workloads and a lack of resources. Counselors with associate degrees who want to advance in their careers may find it hard to compete with those with a bachelor's or graduate degree.
Page last reviewed April 27, 2024. This page's information — not including school descriptions — was reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestCounselingDegrees.net.
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