Would you like to help individuals who are dealing with addiction challenges? You can do this by becoming an addiction counselor. At Walden University, you can prepare by enrolling in the B.S. in Psychology program with a concentration in Addictions. Read on for more information.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What Kind of Program Is It?

    Walden University's online B.S. in Psychology program with a concentration in Addictions is designed to prepare you to assist others in controlling and ending addictive behaviors. Coursework in the Addictions concentration will focus on human behavior and psychology trends across various cultures. You will discover techniques for identifying high-risk factors for addictive behavior and explore methods for treating those who have become dependent on drugs, alcohol, gambling, or other substances and activities. This concentration also can help prepare you for certification as a professional addiction counselor.

    What Are the Prerequisites?

    Addiction counseling requires that you possess observational and analytical skills. You should be able to communicate effectively and have a sincere desire to help others. Applicants to Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

    What Are the Course Requirements?

    The program requires completion of 181 quarter credit hours. The curriculum includes core courses, concentration courses, and a capstone course.

    Foundation Course

    • Dynamics of Walden Success: Learning Lab

    Core Courses

    • Psychology as a Natural Science
    • Psychology as a Social Science
    • Cross-Cultural Psychology
    • Theories of Personality
    • Data Analysis and Presentation
    • Methods in Psychological Inquiry
    • Capstone: Professional Issues and Ethics in Psychology

    Concentration Courses

    • Human Development: Adulthood
    • Social Influences on Behavior
    • Introduction to Addictions
    • Addictions Assessment
    • Prevention and Treatment of Addictions
    • Brain and Behavior
    • Case Management and Addictions

    Psychology Elective Courses

    • Racial and Ethnic Identities
    • Psychology of Gender
    • Influence and Persuasion
    • Global Perspectives in Psychology
    • Nine additional electives

    What Could I Do After I Graduate?

    Career Options

    When you complete Walden University's B.S. in Psychology program with a concentration in Addictions, you have an opportunity to pursue jobs in relevant fields, such as counseling and case management. Potential job titles could include:

    • Addiction counselor
    • Chemical dependency counselor
    • Drug and alcohol treatment specialist
    • Assessment specialist
    • Case manager
    • Clinical counselor

    Advanced Degrees

    If you'd like an advanced degree to help prepare for the credentialing process, consider a master's-level program. Degrees listed are not institution-specific but constitute a sampling of continuing education options for graduates. Degrees you could pursue include:

    • M.S. in Counseling Psychology
    • M.S. in Counseling with a specialization in Addictions Counseling

    Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.