Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling

Program Overview

The University of Providence’s Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling degree prepares students for exciting career opportunities in the field of addictions counseling. The associate’s degree in addictions counseling prepares students to meet Montana state licensure requirements through completion of the 38-credit program and the following:

1. 1,000 hours supervised chemical dependency counseling in a chemical dependency treatment program.
2. The state addictions counseling competency examination.

In addition to licensure, the Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling degree prepares students for successful completion of baccalaureate and graduate education opportunities in addictions counseling, psychology and general counseling – including a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, or a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. As an associate’s degree, the program can also be taken alongside other academic offerings at the University of Providence, most commonly with the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology for 120 total credits.

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Program Highlights

• Broad Understanding of Addictions Counseling

The field of addictions is broad, covering psychoactive substance use, abuse and dependency, gambling, eating disorders, relationships, sexual behavior, and more. UP’s Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling emphasizes treatment and intervention for individuals with chemical and/or gambling use or abuse issues. The program also provides a strong foundation in ethics, psychology, and theory.

• Dual Major Opportunities

Many students completing the Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling choose to pursue a dual major with the University of Providence’s Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program. Together, the two programs complement one another and enhance the overall quality of education and depth of knowledge students gain upon graduation.

• Online or On-Campus Course Offerings

The Addictions Counseling program can be completed online or in person, providing opportunities for both traditional students seeking an on-campus experience and non-traditional students pursuing career transitions or advancement.

• Licensure Preparation Following Graduation

The Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling is specifically structured to meet Montana state licensure requirements to become a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state. While the 68-credit program fulfills the educational requirements, students must also complete 1,000 hours of supervised chemical dependency counseling in a treatment program and pass the state addictions counseling competency exam after graduation.

• Tuition Incentives & Partnerships

The University of Providence offers multiple incentives for current healthcare professionals seeking to start, enhance, or advance a career in healthcare. Currently employed healthcare professionals can learn more about tuition discounts on the Healthcare Professional Tuition Incentive page. Providence Caregivers and their dependents can learn more about tuition discounts and other benefits through the Human Resources Service Portal.

Program Curriculum

The Associate of Arts in Addictions Counseling delivers 68 credits over 4 semesters totaling 24 months in length. Specifically, student take 13 credits in the addictions counseling curriculum and 13 core associate’s of arts credits. All coursework is completed in 4, sixteen-week long sequential terms designed to accelerate learning. The addictions counseling associate’s degree can be completed online, in-person, or hybrid with students completing all required coursework and materials through the Moodle platform. While students are not required to complete any internship, clinical, or practicum hours to graduate, additional licensure criteria may be required.

Learn more: University of Providence Academic Catalog

Application & Admission Requirements

The Associate’s in Addictions Counseling accepts applications for fall and spring enrollment. Application deadlines are in July of each year for fall enrollment and December for spring enrollment. For updated information on undergraduate application requirements, deadlines, and more, please visit the University of Providence admissions page.

Program Cost

The University of Providence is committed to affordability and providing pricing transparency for all healthcare programs. Pricing transparency at UP includes:

• Accessible and up-to-date information on tuition, fees, deposits, and more
• Healthcare programs price table outlining charges per credit hour and total tuition costs
• Information about scholarship opportunities and tuition discounts for specific groups
• Information about the financial aid process

Visit our Tuition and Fees page to access the latest pricing information.

Careers in Addictions Counseling

Over the next ten years, positions in the Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health field are expected to increase 17%  — faster than the 3% average growth rate for all other occupations — according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Those who complete the program and enter the field as an unlicensed counselor can expect to make ~$31,500 per year as an Unlicensed Addictions Counseling Intern, Licensed Addictions Counselors can expect salaries ranging from $37,500 to $52,000 per year. Individual salaries vary by location, demand, skills, and work experience.

Additional Program Information