2024 Best Online Masters in Addiction Counseling Programs

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If you’re passionate about helping people with substance abuse issues, then a masters in addiction counseling can help you advance your professional qualifications in this field.

Best Online Masters in Addiction Counseling Programs

Substance abuse is one of the largest social issues today, and there’s a greater need than ever for addiction counselors who can sensitively and compassionately address this.

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The need for therapy and counseling experts continues to grow, and a master’s in addiction counseling could lead to opportunities for both professional and personal growth.

Online Masters in Addiction Counseling Programs

Man taking Online Masters in Addiction Counseling degree

Millions of people struggle with drug or alcohol addiction in the US. Aside from these, there are other types of addictions, such as gambling, eating, and shopping.

It’s a growing issue, so treatment programs and rehabilitation centers are increasing across the country. Addiction counselors play a crucial role in spreading awareness as well as reducing addiction directly by working with patients.

A masters in substance abuse counseling can help prepare you to become a professional addiction counselor. Programs from accredited schools usually fulfill the educational requirements for taking an official licensure exam. Addiction counselors go through extensive training to help patients recover from addictions and other dependencies. They often utilize several strategies, including:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Group counseling
  • Stress management
  • Psychoeducation for the client’s family
  • Career guidance and assistance

All in all, addiction counselors follow a holistic strategy, treating the emotional causes of a patient’s addiction while taking into account the biological effects of discontinuing a drug.

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They focus on stabilizing the lives of patients through a sense of community, better family relationships, and a stable source of income. Since it’s a complex field that combines theory and clinical practice, a master’s in addiction counseling consists of in-depth classes along with a thorough practicum.

When pursuing a master’s in addiction counseling, you’ll likely delve into several counseling theories and study the psychological changes that a person undergoes throughout their lifetime. You can also practice diagnosing and treating different emotional disorders through both one-on-one and group sessions. 

In addition, you can learn about the pharmacology of addictive substances and how they affect people differently, along with how to work with people with substance abuse issues specifically. To cap off your master’s in addiction counseling, you’ll likely be required to complete a practicum that amounts to several hundreds of hours. This is also one of the steps needed for state licensure as a professional addiction counselor.

Licensed addiction counselors who hold a masters degree can work in formal clinical settings and even do private practice. Some addition counselors are interested in becoming a behavioral therapist and seek further education to enter into this specialty.

Addiction Counseling Careers & Salaries

Addiction Counseling Careers & Salaries

A master’s degree in addiction counseling can pave the way for counseling licensure and professional opportunities in a variety of settings.

With this degree, the most standard track is to specialize in substance abuse issues. Graduates may become alcohol and drug counselors, recovery coaches, and detox specialists. Professionals in these roles design treatment plans for clients and hold one-on-one sessions, with the goal of helping clients end their substance addiction for good.

Beyond addiction counseling, graduates may choose to conduct other forms of therapy. Even with a master’s degree in addiction counseling, you can take additional credits to pursue licensure as a marriage and family therapist or a mental health counselor.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median salaries of potential careers related to addiction counseling.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Postsecondary Teachers $79,640
Social and Community Service Managers $74,000
Health Education Specialists $60,600
School and Career Counselors and Advisors $60,510
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists $60,250
Social Workers $50,390
Marriage and Family Therapists $49,880
Social Science Research Assistants $49,720
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $48,520
Rehabilitation Counselors $38,560

Many of these careers require state licensure or industry certification. Requirements vary, but you’re typically required to complete specialized coursework as well as a specified number of supervised work hours.

Some graduates pursue social work and community service roles. Social workers may conduct addiction counseling while connecting clients with additional resources related to healthcare and employment. Graduates might also develop programs for communities or come up with policies that try to lessen the spread of substance addiction.

Alternatively, some professionals with a masters degree in addiction counseling go on to become school counselors, working with students or younger people who have substance addictions. Whatever track you choose, there are a number of options for addiction counseling professionals.

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Graduates tend to work in rehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, youth and prison detention centers, nonprofits, hospitals, social service centers, and government agencies.

Addiction Counseling Master’s Curriculum & Courses

students pursuing Addiction Counseling Master's degree

Here are examples of courses that you might take for a masters in addiction counseling:

  • Counseling Theories: This course introduces you to the different approaches in counseling, such as psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic.
  • Human Growth and Lifespan Development: You’ll study the main biological, social, and psychological stages that human beings go through, from birth all the way to adulthood and then aging.
  • Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling: This course delves into how to work with clients who have drug and alcohol addictions, from identifying root causes to designing treatments.
  • Biology of Addiction: You’ll examine the physical and psychological effects of different drugs and get to know the biological mechanisms that drive various stages of addiction.
  • Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis: This course will train you to assess and test and make diagnoses based on the DSM-V, with an emphasis on common psychological disorders.
  • Family Therapy in Addiction Treatment: You’ll examine the psychology of addiction using the family systems model, and you’ll explore how addiction tends to affect family members.
  • Co-Occurring Disorders: Addiction is often accompanied by other mental health disorders, so this course looks into how to evaluate these disorders and then form evidence-based treatments.
  • Group Counseling: You’ll learn about the theories and practices behind group counseling, with modules on group dynamics and effective facilitating.
  • Career Counseling: This course looks at the major models and tools for helping people find and develop careers that they can thrive in.
  • Professional and Ethical Issues in Counseling: You’ll explore the code of ethics and professional practices followed in formal mental health settings, with topics such as confidentiality and consent.

A master’s degree in addiction counseling often includes an internship, where you’ll be supervised by a professional counselor.

MS in Addiction Counseling Admissions Requirements

Woman preparing requirements for MS in Addiction Counseling

To apply to a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling program, you’ll likely submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts. These cover all undergraduate and graduate credits you’ve taken.
  • Personal essay. You’re usually asked to describe your career plans along with why you’re interested in the program.
  • Resume. Addiction counseling programs will check for any related experiences you’ve had.
  • Recommendation letters. You’ll typically submit two or three letters, with many MS programs emphasizing academic references.

Some schools also have you submit GRE or GMAT scores, though a growing number of schools offer both on-campus as well as online masters in counseling no GRE required. Admissions requirements can vary from school to school.

Addiction Counseling Master’s Programs Accreditation

University offering Addiction Counseling Master's Programs

Addiction counseling is a field that requires licensure, and an education from an accredited school is a common licensing requirement. Regional accreditation is a sign that a school is credible and offers quality education and resources.

To learn more about the accreditation process, you can visit the website of the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Addiction counseling programs can also receive programmatic accreditation by CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs).

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Many employers and graduate schools put a high value on addiction counseling programs that are CACREP accredited, which could improve your qualifications and employability.

Addiction Counseling Licensure and Certifications

Licensed Professional Counselor in a session with patient

Requirements for addiction counseling licensure and certifications vary per state, but you can often get a starting certification with a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree allows you to pursue more advanced certifications, along with the ability to open a private practice.

Aside from meeting educational requirements, it’s also necessary to complete around 2,000 to 6,000 hours of practicum work, which could take around 2 to 3 years. Once you satisfy these requirements, you can take a licensing exam. Addictions counselors typically pursue the National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Masters in Addiction Counseling Financial Aid

One of the first steps in the financial aid process is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal aid for graduate students includes student loans, which tend to have lower interest rates than private sources. You can also look into work-study programs to help cover some of your tuition expenses.

State and university aid may be available as well. State aid generally comes in the form of need-based grants, while university aid can include scholarship opportunities. There are many external scholarships for counseling students as well, such as the Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund and the Clinton E. Phillips Scholarship.

Another option for some students is to do an assistantship, where they can work part-time at their school and help out with research or teaching in exchange for reduced tuition. Employer assistance might also be possible, especially if your current work is related to substance counseling.

Addiction Counseling Professional Organizations

Members of American Society of Addiction Medicine

Joining professional organizations for substance addiction counseling can help you connect with other counselors, get access to the latest research, and participate in events and trainings. You can become a member even while you’re still a student or working toward your licensure.

Here are three prominent organizations in the field:

You may even be able to get reduced rates on various services, such as insurance, by joining a professional organization.

What Can You Do with an Addictions Counseling Masters Degree?

Marriage and Family Therapist discussing with couple

Earning an addiction counseling master’s degree can be an essential step toward becoming a licensed mental health professional.

Licensure requirements vary by state, but many states require you to have a master’s degree to practice fully. It can pave the way for roles such as addiction counselor, marriage and family therapist, and mental health counselor.

Aside from working directly with clients, you could pursue roles in social work, advocacy, and education. For example, many graduates become program coordinators, school counselors, or even researchers and professors. 

How Much Do Addiction Counselors Make?

Addiction Counselor in a group therapy session

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly salary for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is $48,520.

The top 10% of earners make more than $77,980, and the many of the highest-paying jobs are found in government and hospital settings. Aside from these roles, some addiction counseling graduates go on to become marriage and family therapists or social workers, with median salaries of $49,880 and $50,390, respectively.

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Actual salaries can vary based on several factors, such as how many years of experience you have, your level of education, and your location.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Addiction Counseling Degree Online?

Man pursuing Master's in Addiction Counseling degree online

An online masters in addiction counseling degree usually consists of 36 to 45 credits, so it’s possible to finish the coursework in 1 or 2 years if you’re studying full-time.

The most time-consuming component of an online addiction counseling degree would be the practicum, which often amounts to hundreds of hours. This could extend your overall time to completion. Studying part-time is a common choice for online students who also work, though it will often take you longer to finish your program.

What’s the Difference Between an Addiction Counselor vs. Social Worker?

Addiction counselors and social workers can have similar roles, but they’re not interchangeable.

Addiction Counselors Social Workers
  • Focus on helping clients recover from substance abuse issues through counseling
  • Credentials include National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
  • Work mainly with substance abuse clients
  • Focus on giving clients access to resources related to employment, healthcare, and community 
  • Credentials include Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
  • May take on clients with different conditions

Both career paths require extensive training to earn a license.

Is a Masters in Addiction Counseling Worth It?

Addiction Counselor giving feedback to her patient

Yes, a masters in addiction counseling is worth it for many students. Most people who are drawn to addiction counseling seek to make a difference. It can be a very rewarding and meaningful career since you might be able to directly help people improve their lives.

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a high demand for substance abuse and mental health counselors over the next ten years. Employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is expected to grow 23%. In comparison to a bachelors degree, a masters can typically allow you to advance further with certifications. A masters degree is often an educational requirement for therapist roles as well.

Universities Offering Online Masters in Addiction Counseling Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Carlow University

Carlow University

Carlow University offers an MS in Professional Counseling: Addictions Counseling. The program is designed to lead to LPC licensure and can typically be completed in about 2.5 years. This is an on-campus program, but select courses are available online. Prospective students can apply at any time to begin in the fall, spring, or summer.

Carlow University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Drexel University

Drexel University

Drexel University offers a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling. The program is designed to prepare students academically for the Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Master Addictions Counselor certification exams. All coursework is available online, but students must still participate in supervised clinical experiences.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a Master of Arts in Addiction Studies that can be earned fully online. It is intended to lead to certification as a Substance Use Disorder Professional in Washington. Coursework includes Counseling Theories for Addiction Professionals, Pharmacological Actions of Alcohol and Other Drugs, Relapse Prevention, and more.

Eastern Washington University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Master of Science in Addiction Counseling is available online, though students must also complete a practicum to gain real-world experience. The program requires the completion of 36 credits’ worth of 8 week courses. Course options include Family Issues and Addictive Disorders, Social and Cultural Diversity Issues in Counseling, Psychopharmacology and Addictions, and more.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Master of Arts with a major in Clinical Addictions Counseling. The program requires the completion of 48 credit hours and is taught from a Christian worldview. Courses are available both on campus and online. When finished, students are eligible to pursue state licensure.

Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

Liberty University

Liberty University’s Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling can be earned 100% online. The program requires the completion of 48 credit hours. The average student can finish in 2 years. Classes are 8 weeks long. Course options include Diagnosis and Treatment Planning of Addictive Disorders, Case Management and Relapse Prevention in Addiction Counseling, Group Dynamics, and more.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Mid-America Christian University

Mid-America Christian University

Mid-America Christian University offers an MS in Counseling – Addiction and Substance Abuse. The program is online but uses a cohort model so that participants can build a community with their fellow students. Course options include Pharmacology of Drugs of Abuse, Advanced Counseling and Psychotherapy Techniques, Addiction in the Family and Assessment Theory, and more.

MACU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ottawa University

Ottawa University

Ottawa University offers a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling that can be earned online and at multiple campus locations. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours of coursework. Class options include Graduate Seminar: Clinical and Addictions Foundations, Multicultural Concerns in Addictions Counseling, Law and Ethics in Addictions Counseling, and more.

Ottawa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Regent University

Regent University

Regent University’s MA in Human Services – Addictions Counseling program includes 30 credit hours of online coursework. This non-licensure program is mostly asynchronous, but it does provide opportunities to interact with classmates via online discussion forums. Course options include Process Addictions, Addiction Intervention, and Advanced Counseling Skills and Techniques.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University

A Master of Science in Addiction Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University can be earned entirely online. The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours of coursework, which can usually be completed in 1 year by full-time students and in 2 years by part-time students. The curriculum emphasizes international and cultural perspectives on addiction.

VCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your Masters Degree in Addiction Counseling Online

student getting Masters Degree in Addiction Counseling online

A masters in addiction counseling can help equip you to assist those who are recovering from addiction. As a professional in this field, you could be at the forefront of helping people change their lives for the better.

A graduate program in can expose you to the latest clinical and counseling practices while providing you guidance from professional counselors. Addiction counseling programs from accredited schools often meet the educational requirements for licensure in the state they’re in. In addition, it’s now possible to earn your masters in addiction counseling online.

You can start researching accredited schools today to discover which masters program in addiction counseling best aligns with your interests and aspirations.

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Ima Ocon
WRITTEN BY
Ima holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Ateneo de Manila University, with a minor in Philosophy. She also participated in the Global Summer Program at Singapore Management University. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate certificate in counseling.