Master of Science in Psychology: Addictions

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Purdue University Global's online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Addictions program offers information about the foundations of psychology as they apply to addictions counseling. You could study data analysis and psychological research studies, and you can learn more about the thought processes that influence human behaviors. Applied psychology statistics and psychological testing and measurement are other areas of emphasis. The Addictions concentration focuses on topics such as psychopharmacology and group counseling techniques.

You can choose to complete this program with a thesis or comprehensive examination track. The thesis track includes two master's thesis courses that are especially helpful to students who plan to pursue doctoral degrees as well. Upon completion of the program, you could have the qualifications needed to take the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals' (NCC AP) Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) certification exam.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The online Purdue University Global Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Addictions program may be of interest to students whose focus is on helping people who are addicted to drugs, alcohol or gambling. You should have empathy along with great listening skills. Applicants to Purdue University Global's master's degree programs should already have a bachelor's degree; some programs may have additional requirements.

What Are the Course Requirements?

To successfully earn Purdue University Global's online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Addictions degree, you'll have to accumulate 70-75 credits. The number of core credits for the thesis track is 40, while the exam track requires 35 credits. Both tracks require you to complete 35 concentration credits.

Core Requirements (35-40 credits)

Course Code	Course Title
PS501	Foundations of Professional Psychology
MM570	Applied Statistics for Psychology
PS504	Advanced Research Methods
PS505	Testing, Measurement and Assessment
PS506	Life Span Development
PS508	Ethics for Addictions Professionals
	Thesis Track students only:
PS601	Master's Research and Thesis I
PS602	Master's Research and Thesis II
	Comprehensive Exam track students only:
PS508	Ethics for Addictions Professionals

Addictions Concentration Courses (35 credits)

Course Code	Course Title
PS511	Chemical and Psychological Dependency Counseling
PS516	Psychopharmacology
PS521	Group Counseling
PS526	Advanced Addictions Counseling
PS531	Co-Occurring Disorders and Treatments
PS535	Addictions Practicum I
PS536	Addictions Practicum II

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Addictions program at Purdue University Global, you could be prepared to search for employment in mental health facilities, social service centers, and drug and alcohol treatment centers across the country. Here are some possible career options:

• Addictions specialist
• Substance abuse counselor
• Addiction counselor
• Clinical case manager
• Rehabilitation counselor
• Managed care specialist

Advanced Degrees

Further education could be necessary if you'd like more intensive information on the psychology of substance abuse and dependency. Programs such as the ones below can allow you to examine research that has to do with compulsive behaviors and addictions. After graduating from Purdue University Global's online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Addictions program, you could pursue credentials such as the:

• Graduate Certificate in Addictions
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology with an Addictions concentration
• Doctor of Psychology