Master of Health Science in Addictions Studies

Governors State University

The damage from substance use disorders reaches beyond the person who is using substances. It affects loved ones and extends into the community through impact on healthcare, law enforcement, and occupational and educational arenas. Governors State University’s Masters of Health Science in Addictions Studies prepares leaders in addictions prevention and treatment. As the number of people suffering from substance abuse and addiction grows, so too does the demand for licensed substance abuse counselors.

Through a curriculum fully accredited by the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association (IAODAPCA), you’ll receive the skills and background you need to meet the changing needs of clients and their communities. The program is also accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC), which is the only accrediting body that represents addiction-focused educators and practitioners.

Reach your career goals.

In the Addiction Studies program, you will prepare to enter the field as you translate research into practice. Expert faculty members integrate that knowledge into a thorough investigation of treatment programs, from planning to management. Complete your program with an internship that provides a hands-on opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, and enter the field with the education requirements to practice as a certified addictions counselor.

Qualified students may also take the criminal justice internship option to meet the requirements for the Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional.

Why get a Masters of Health Science in Addiction Studies?

Treatment programs need professionals who understand addictions and how to empower individuals to overcome them. Cultural understanding and sensitivity are essential to your ability as a counselor to appreciate and respond to cultural and community influences on addiction and recovery. As a graduate student in the program, you will receive a comprehensive course of study emphasizing state-of-the-art, evidence-based approaches to addictions, which includes pharmacology, prevention, counseling, and group techniques.

Delivery Format

Governors State’s 32-credit hour MHS in Addictions Studies is offered in three flexible formats: courses can be taken fully on-campus, through hybrid courses in which 50% of the coursework is completed online, or fully online.