10 Affordable Online Degrees in Substance Abuse Counseling (2025)

Define your route to making a difference with the flexibility an accredited affordable online substance abuse counseling degree offers. Explore programs now.

<p><table border="0"> <tr><td><img src="/cimages/multimages/2/pexels-shvets-production-7176325.jpg" alt="Addiction counselor" /></td></tr> </table> </p> <p>Having trained professionals to assist individuals in recovery from substance abuse is very important. Fortunately, institutions have recognized this demand, offering affordable online <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Does_a_Substance_Abuse_Counselor_Do.html">substance abuse counseling</a> degree programs. </p> <p>Each program in the list below offers an intensive curriculum, ensuring students are well-equipped to make a difference in the lives of those battling addiction. </p> <h2 id="section---ListOfAffordableSubstanceAbuseCounselingDegreesOnline"> List of Affordable Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees Online</h2> <p>The following list simplifies the research, highlighting ten affordable online <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Are_the_Duties_of_a_Substance_Abuse_Counselor.html">substance abuse counseling degree</a> programs. </p> <h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfCincinnati"> 1. University of Cincinnati</h3> <p>The <a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/University_of_Cincinnati.html">University of Cincinnati</a> presents an online Bachelor of Science in substance abuse counseling. This curriculum is made for individuals looking to assist those dealing with drug and alcohol dependencies. </p> <p>Encompassing 120 credit hours, it's structured for completion in under three years. The coursework delves into vital subjects such as basic pharmacology, stress management, and crisis management techniques. </p> <p>The program holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Part-time resident students can expect a tuition of $566 per credit hour, while out-of-state students will face a cost of $581. </p> <h3 id="section---2.ArizonaStateUniversity"> 2. Arizona State University</h3> <p><a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/Arizona_State_University.html">Arizona State University</a> offers an online Bachelor of Science in counseling and applied psychological science, spotlighting a concentration in substance abuse and addiction. </p> <p>The program breaks down into 120 credit hours, divided among 30 classes each spanning seven to eight weeks. Key areas of study include addiction group counseling, psychopharmacology, and professional practice &amp; ethics. </p> <p>There is a one-time application fee of $70. Tuition stands at $6,115 per semester for resident students taking a full-time load of 12 credit hours, while their out-of-state counterparts can anticipate a $7,317 charge. </p> <h3 id="section---3.SouthNewHampshireUniversity"> 3. South New Hampshire University</h3> <p>South New Hampshire University introduces an online <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Core_Courses_of_a_Bachelor_of_Science_Degree_in_Human_Services.html">Bachelor of Sciences in human services</a>, specifically emphasizing substance abuse. </p> <p>This program caters to those with a passion for making positive changes in the lives of others. Regarding tuition, the cost stands at $330 per credit hour, exclusive of potential fees and taxes. </p> <p>It consists of 120 credit hours and students can transfer up to 90 credits from accredited institutions, potentially accelerating their graduation timeline and trimming expenses. </p> <h3 id="section---4.GrandCanyonUniversity"> 4. Grand Canyon University</h3> <p><a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/Grand_Canyon_University.html">Grand Canyon University</a> extends an online Bachelor of Science in substance abuse and addiction counseling program. This curriculum requires the completion of 120 credit hours. </p> <p>It offers flexibility in that students can transfer up to 90 credits from prior courses; however, only 84 of those can be lower-division credits. </p> <p>The coursework covers key areas like substance use disorders, multicultural counseling, and the role of <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Psychopharmacology_Degree_and_Career_FAQs.html">psychopharmacology</a> in addiction treatment. Prospective students should note a tuition rate of $485 per credit hour. </p> <h3 id="section---5.OttawaUniversity"> 5. Ottawa University</h3> <p>Ottawa University presents an online Bachelor of Science in <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_Schools_for_Addiction_Counseling_Your_Questions_Answered.html">addiction counseling program</a>, made for individuals committed to assisting those struggling with substance abuse. </p> <p>The curriculum provides students with an understanding of the dynamics of crisis interventions and theories of personality and addiction. </p> <p>This program is structured around concise eight-week courses and boasts <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_is_an_Accredited_Degree.html">accreditation</a> from the ACBSP. The tuition rate is $499 per credit hour, with the potential addition of taxes and ancillary fees. </p> <h3 id="section---6.MidwesternStateUniversityTexas"> 6. Midwestern State University Texas</h3> <p>At Midwestern State University Texas, there's an online Bachelor of Science in <a href="https://learn.org/multimedia/What_Does_a_Substance_Abuse_Counselor_Do_-_Video.html">substance abuse counseling program</a> available, designed for completion within two to four years. </p> <p>With 120 credit hours, it is designed to prepare students for the Chemical Dependency Licensure. </p> <p>Students with an associate degree can transfer their previously earned credits, which reduces both the graduation timeline and overall degree costs. The tuition for each credit hour stands at $375. </p> <h3 id="section---7.AverettUniversity"> 7. Averett University</h3> <p>Averett University provides an online <a href="https://learn.org/articles/BS_in_Psychology_Your_Career_and_Salary_Questions_Answered.html">Bachelor of Science in psychology</a> with a focus on substance abuse counseling that can be finished in four years. </p> <p>The program's structure consists of 120 credit hours: 60 credits are allocated to general and psychology courses, 45 to elective courses, and the remaining 15 are dedicated to substance abuse concentration. </p> <p>Financially, students should anticipate a tuition rate of $480 per credit hour, not accounting for taxes or any additional fees. </p> <h3 id="section---8.EmpireStateUniversity"> 8. Empire State University</h3> <p>Empire State University introduces an online Bachelor of Science in addiction studies program, demanding a completion of 124 credit hours. </p> <p>This curriculum provides a deep look into various facets of addiction and substance abuse, highlighting subjects like case management, substantive interventions, and advanced counseling techniques. </p> <p>Graduates can expect to be equipped with the knowledge and tools to assist those battling addiction. The tuition cost per credit hour for in-state attendees is $295, while out-of-state students pay $353. </p> <h3 id="section---9.IndianaWesleyanUniversity"> 9. Indiana Wesleyan University</h3> <p><a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/Indiana_Wesleyan_University.html">Indiana Wesleyan University</a> offers an online Bachelor of Science in addictions counseling program, proudly accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC). </p> <p>The curriculum consists of 48 credit hours divided into 16 courses, all achievable in a 22-month timeframe. The cost per credit hour is set at $398 and students can explore the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/types_of_college_financial_aid.html">financial aid</a> options the institution extends. </p> <p>Students will be immersed in critical areas of the discipline, such as intergroup relations, the psychology of abnormal behavior, and hands-on addiction counseling techniques. </p> <h3 id="section---10.UniversityOfMary"> 10. University of Mary</h3> <p>The University of Mary has an online Bachelor of Science in <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_is_the_Employment_Outlook_for_Addiction_Counseling_Careers.html">addiction counseling program</a>, made for those with a passion for helping individuals with addictive tendencies. </p> <p>With 124 credit hours, the program is designed for a four-year completion. However, with appropriate credit transfers, aspirants can reduce their graduation timeline to two and a half years. </p> <p>The curriculum is apt for those looking for roles as substance abuse counselors, prevention administrators, and specialized addiction counselors. Students have a tuition fee of $480 per credit hour. </p> <h2 id="section---HowMuchDoesAnOnlineBachelorSDegreeInSubstanceAbuseCounselingCost"> How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling Cost?</h2> <p>The cost of an online bachelor's degree in substance abuse counseling varies based on the institution, whether it's public or private, its accreditation status, and other factors. </p> <p>From the universities previously discussed, tuition per credit hour ranged from $295 to $581. </p> <p>Given that these degrees often require around 120 to 124 credit hours, the overall tuition could be anywhere from roughly $35,400 to $71,720, not including additional fees, books, or materials. </p> <h2 id="section---HowToMakeAnOnlineSubstanceAbuseCounselingDegreeAffordable"> How To Make an Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Affordable</h2> <p>To make an online substance abuse counseling degree more affordable, consider applying for financial aid using the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Understanding_Your_FAFSA_Package.html">FAFSA form</a>, seeking out <a href="https://learn.org/pages/scholarship_home.html">scholarships</a>, and taking advantage of in-state tuition rates at <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Advantages_of_Attending_Public_Colleges.html">public universities</a>. </p> <p>Transfer any previous college credits to reduce course loads and look into accelerated programs for quicker completion. Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement and compare tuition rates across universities to find cost-effective options. </p> <h2 id="section---IsAnOnlineSubstanceAbuseCounselingDegreeWorthIt"> Is an Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Worth It?</h2> <p>An online substance abuse counseling degree can be worth it for those passionate about helping others overcome addiction. </p> <p>It provides the specialized knowledge required in this field and can lead to licensure, which most states require. <a href="https://learn.org/articles/affordable_online_degrees_us.html">Online accredited programs</a> often offer flexibility and can be more affordable than traditional ones. </p> <p>With a degree, you'll likely have better job opportunities and the potential for higher salaries in a field that's seeing growth. </p> <h2 id="section---FindAnAffordableDegreeInSubstanceAbuseCounselingOnlineToday"> Find an Affordable Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling Online Today</h2> <p>Exploring affordable online substance abuse counseling degree programs is a smart move for those looking to merge passion with profession. </p> <p>Look into this rewarding field and discover quality education that aligns with budgets and aspirations.</p>