While it’s perfectly possible to get started in substance use disorder (SUD) counseling in many states with only a certificate or associate degree, it’s also often means something when someone is looking at these options that the idea of paying for a full four-year degree in the field may be a little out of reach. With the costs of college skyrocketing, that’s no surprise.
So if you are looking to make a difference in your community but are worried about coming up with the resources to get the right education, you’re in the right place. Here, we not only point you toward community colleges and private institutes in your area that offer the courses you need to get certified as an addiction counselor; we can help you find the most affordable options out there.
From the dry deserts of New Mexico all the way up the coast to the rainy Olympic Peninsula of Washington, we’ve got great options for anyone looking for a substance abuse counseling education on a budget.
How We Identified the Most Affordable Certificate and Associate Addiction Studies Programs in the West
The West is a big place and it covers both ends of the spectrum when it comes to costs and lifestyle. From the glitz of Hollywood to tiny subsistence-level villages north of the Arctic Circle in Alaska, there are a wide range of individuals and economic expectations throughout these five states.
So it only made sense for us to start by building our list on a state-by-state basis when it comes to costs. Every public school and every private school in each state are grouped accordingly, and the total cost of attendance for each program is averaged out for the group. We split off private schools because their funding processes are so different from public colleges, and the benefits between the two can be quite different as well.
You’ll find relatively few private schools offering these programs in this part of the country—none at all in Oregon or Washington.
For costs, we only include tuition and fees, calculating the total cost of the program by multiplying the credit hours by the number of credits required. For those rare schools that use a quarter system rather than semesters, we applied a conversion factor so everything is apples to apples.
To make the list, all that has to happen is that a program come in less than $1000 over the state average in their category. For schools that come in below that average, we tell you both their cost and how much lower it is. In cases where a college is the only one in the state to offer such a program, it is by definition both the most average and the most affordable, so it definitely gets included.
Exploring the Little Differences That Help You Make the Big Decision in Your First Substance Abuse Degree or Certificate
You could just run your finger down the screen and pick the absolute lowest cost program in your state, but you’ll be missing a great opportunity if that’s all you do.
With so many programs that are so affordable, you have an opportunity to make a choice that goes beyond just the basics.
While every school here covers all the crucial coursework you need to get a counseling credential, they aren’t all the same. You’ll find that some may have superbly qualified instructors, while others enjoy cooperative arrangements for experiential learning with key community treatment organizations. Some will offer their classes online, while others may stick with a traditional format.
These are all differences that don’t matter for your qualifications, but can be a big deal in your engagement and enjoyment. The right combination can shape your learning toward exactly the sort of SUD counseling career you have been imagining.
So take the time to go through the extra details we provide! On top of those little snapshots, you’ll find:
- A link back to the school’s program site
- A list of other, related programs offered by the school, including bachelor’s degree programs that you may be able to transfer credits toward
- Specialization or emphasis options that can aim your studies toward particular kinds of treatment expertise
State-by-State: The Lowest Cost Addiction CounselingAssociate and Certificate Programs in the Western United States
Somewhere on this list is a school that doesn’t just check the boxes for your state’s counseling credentials board, but also holds the inspiration and knowledge to launch your career like a rocket. Get in there and find it!
West North Central
California (public)
Long Beach City College
Allied Health Department
Long Beach, CA
Website
AA in Human Services Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $3,120
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,080
- One of the largest schools in California’s 116-school community college system
- Outstanding student resources and services available through the Student Success Centers
- Superb guidance and assistance offered through the Career Center
Long Beach City College programs in Addiction Studies prepare students to become valuable professionals in the field of substance use disorder counseling. These clinical programs prepare students for state certification and are offered as truly affordable paths to exciting careers in SUD counseling. Just some of the courses you’ll take include introduction to chemical dependency; addiction counseling skills; intervention, treatment, and recovery; law and ethics; and group & family process.
San Jose City College
Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts Division
San Jose, CA
Website
AS in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
AA in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $3,036
Certificate of Achievement Level 2 in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Certificate of Achievement Level 3 in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Certificate of Specialization in Addiction and Criminal Justice (on-campus)
Certificate of Specialization in Alcohol and Drug Studies Peer Mentor (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,472
Total tuition comes in at $199 below the state average for similar programs.
- Top-notch student services and resources available through the Career/Transfer Center and Job Placement Center
- One of California's top transfer colleges to San José State University
- Free tutoring for all students
San Jose City College’s Alcohol and Drug Counseling programs offer outstanding affordability for those interested in pursuing certification and careers in this fulfilling profession. Designed to produce qualified professionals capable of providing services in both public and private agencies, San Jose City College’s alcohol and drug studies programs provide the training and education necessary to assume jobs in mental health clinics, inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, crisis intervention centers, detox units, shelters, and more. Wherever you’re at in your career, San Jose City College has a program that meets your needs!
Angeles Pierce College
Social and Behavioral Sciences Pathway
Woodland Hills, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,898
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Exceptional flexibility: year-round class offerings in 15, eight- and five-week classes
- Excellent transfer rate to colleges within the University of California and California State University system
- #1 in Transfer Admission Rate to UCLA and #1 in transfer to Cal State Northridge of all California community colleges
- Transfer agreements with UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Barbara, CSUN, Loyola Marymount University and most other California universities
An outstanding education at an affordable price! Angeles Pierce College’s AA in Addiction Studies and Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies are clinical psychology programs that help students understand individuals with co-occurring disorders and the impact of addictions on the individual, family, and community. Students of these programs learn to employ prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies and evidence-based practices to assume positions in a wide variety of public and nonprofit agencies and organizations.
Merritt College
Oakland, CA
Website
AA in Community Social Services-Substance Abuse (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,852
Certificate of Achievement in Community Social Services-Substance Abuse (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,162
- Home to a variety of student success programs focused on college success and career exploration
- Free online tutoring
- Exceptional 60-year legacy of academic excellence
Merritt College’s programs in Community Social Services – Substance Abuse offer outstanding value in higher education and a comprehensive exploration of substance abuse counseling to prepare students for positions aimed at providing counseling, case management, crisis management, and relapse prevention services. Whichever program you choose, you’ll be well-prepared to assume positions in a wide variety of agencies and organizations or transfer to a four-year institution.
American River College
Sacramento, CA
Website
AA/AS in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,852
Certificate in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,771
- Flexible scheduling options include day and evening classes and full- and part-time formats
- Classes also offered at the school’s Natomas, McClellan, and Mather centers
- Transfers more students to CSU Sacramento and UC Davis than any other community college in California
American River College’s programs in Chemical Dependency Studies offer today’s discerning students the value they expect and the quality they demand. Both of these well-designed programs prepare students to land exciting and fulfilling jobs in organizations and agencies focused on substance use disorder counseling, such as correctional institutions, welfare agencies, mental health facilities, schools, shelters, and more. Offered in both full- and part-time formats, these programs are designed to accommodate your busy schedule.
Hartnell College
Social Sciences
Salinas, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,820
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $,1692
- Study at any of the college’s five campuses throughout Salinas Valley
- Wide variety of student support services and resources available
- Hispanic Serving Institution
Hartnell College’s value is only surpassed by its high-quality programs in addiction studies, both of which provide a comprehensive, generalist, and integrative perspective in theory and practice for aspiring substance use disorder counselors. Courses here are focused on areas like treatment planning, case management, documentation, and individual, group, and family counseling skills to prepare students for exciting careers in nonprofit, private, and public agencies and organizations.
Lake Tahoe Community College
South Lake Tahoe, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,820
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,387
Total tuition comes in at $284 below the state average for similar programs.
- Recognized as one of the top community colleges in the nation
- Superb student support includes individual career counseling
- Expansive community college serves about 7,500 student annually
Lake Tahoe Community College’s Addiction Studies programs are the affordable path to securing employment in a variety of agencies that offer alcohol and drug treatment programs. They also serve as outstanding courses of continuing education for workers in healthcare and human services. Offering a comprehensive exploration of the field, these programs include courses focused on drug education and prevention, treatment, counseling skills, ethical issues, and practical knowledge and prepare students to become adept in counseling, case management, record keeping, and treatment planning.
Los Angeles City College
Psychology Department
Los Angeles, CA
Website
AA in Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,806
Certificate of Achievement in Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,070
- Seamless transfer to the California State University system
- Superb, 95-year academic history – oldest of the Los Angeles Community Colleges
- Ranked among the top three Best Southern California Community Colleges by USA Today News
Los Angeles City College’s programs in Human Services – Addiction Studies boast outstanding value and superb preparation for careers focused on substance abuse counseling, case management, crisis management, and more. Students of these programs are also immersed in real-world settings through community-based drug and alcohol field work courses that are led by a faculty member and align with a student’s special interests in the field.
College of the Desert
School of Social Sciences and Art
Palm Desert, CA
Website
AS in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,795
Certificate of Achievement in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,677
- Top transfer college to the California State University at San Bernardino
- Outstanding, 66-year-plus history of academic success
- Wide range of student resources and services available through the Office of Student Services
The College of the Desert offers outstanding value in SUD counseling education through its Alcohol and Drug studies programs. Here, students study chemical addiction and treatment, which includes learning to recognize the philosophy, values, terminology, and practice of the field of addiction studies and describe and interpret theory and research. Whether you have plans for further study at the bachelor’s level, or you’re focused on gaining the skills and knowledge needed to assume entry-level positions in the field, the Alcohol and Drug studies programs of the College of the Desert are designed with your needs in mind.
Oxnard College
Public Safety, Health, and Wellness Pathway
Oxnard, CA
Website
AS in Addictive Studies in the Criminal Justice System (on-campus)
AS in Addictive Disorders Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addictive Disorders Studies in the Criminal Justice System (on-campus)
Certificate of Achievement in Addictive Disorders Studies (on-campus)
Certificate of Achievement in Advanced Skills for Addiction Treatment Counselors (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Ranked fourth in the State of California community college system by Schools.com
- Outstanding student resources and services available through the 1st-STEP center
- Academic, career, transfer, and personal counseling services available
Oxnard College’s Addictive Disorders Studies programs offer the affordability you’re looking for and the educational preparation you need to begin making a difference in the SUD counseling field. These programs prepare students to assume entry-level jobs that require them to perform intakes and assessments, providing supportive and group counseling, participate in crisis intervention, and more. Theory here is complemented with fieldwork at DHCS licensed/certified drug and alcohol treatment centers or facilities in California for a truly well-rounded exploration of the field of substance abuse counseling.
College of San Mateo
San Mateo, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Seamless university transfer program to the California State University, the University of California, and other independent colleges and universities
- Outstanding career services help students explore internships and employment opportunities
- Consistently ranked as a top community college by esteemed publications like Niche
The College of San Mateo’s Addiction Studies programs boast an affordable price tag and a comprehensive examination of the intricacies of working with the alcohol and drug dependent population. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to either continue their education or make an immediate impact on public and private agencies focused on prevention and intervention. Just some of the courses of these programs include Introduction to Addiction Studies; Intervention, Treatment, and Recovery; Co-Occurring Disorders; Family Systems in Addiction; and Laws and Ethics in Addiction Studies. Students here also complete field studies that allow them to gain valuable, real-world experience before graduation.
West Los Angeles College
Health Sciences Division
Culver City, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,656
Total tuition comes in at $15 below the state average for similar programs.
- Transfer opportunities to California State University and the University of California
- Hispanic Serving Institution
- Outstanding student support services help students reach their educational and professional goals
West Los Angeles College’s programs in Addiction Studies are designed with value and quality in mind. Whether you complete the associate degree or certificate program, you’ll be well-prepared to begin making immediate, lasting contributions to the field of SUD counseling, assessment, case management, crisis management, and more. Plus, a variety of courses within the AA program are transferrable to both California State University and the University of California.
Cuesta College
Social and Behavioral Sciences and Human Services
San Luis Obispo, CA
Website
AA in Addiction Treatment Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies Foundation (on-campus)
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Treatment Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,288
Total tuition comes in at $383 below the state average for similar programs.
- Among 150 two-year institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence by the Aspen Institute
- Three, convenient campus locations
- Top-notch academic and career technical education counseling available
Cuesta College’s Addiction Treatment Studies programs boast the affordability that today’s discerning students demand. These comprehensive programs feature contemporary courses like Families and Addiction; Treatment and Case Management; and Counseling Skills, Law and Ethics, alongside human services seminars and fieldwork opportunities in addiction studies for a truly well-rounded examination of the field. You’ll be proud to complete your SUD counseling education through a college that’s been recognized among the top two-year colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute!
Modesto Junior College
School of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Modesto, CA
Website
AA in Chemical Dependency Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Chemical Dependency Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,656
Total tuition comes in at $15 below the state average for similar programs.
- Superb history of academic excellence – serving the Modesto and surrounding communities for more than 100 years
- Outstanding selection of support services available – includes career services, counseling, financial services, veterans resources, and more
Modesto Junior College offers two programs in Chemical Dependency Counseling, both of which boast outstanding tuition rates and contemporary courses that prepare students to assume positions in a variety of non-profit, private, and public agencies and organizations. Just some of the courses studied here include Counseling in Chemical Dependency; Ethical and Professional Issues; Intervention and Treatment Strategies in Chemical Dependency; and Drugs and Alcohol in Society. Field studies allow students to take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in real-life settings.
Cosumnes River College
Sacramento, CA
Website
AA in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,725
- Outstanding, wrap-around support services include CRC Career Services, which offers unparalleled guidance when choosing a major, preparing for a job, or exploring careers
- Seamless transfer opportunities to the California State University system, including Sacramento State (CSUS)
- Outstanding, 50-year-plus history of providing quality educational programs and services
Consumnes River College’s programs in Chemical Dependency Studies feature the affordable tuition rates you expect and the comprehensive examination of the field of drug and alcohol counseling you’ll need to become a valued member of programs and services in nonprofit, private, and public agencies and organizations. Students here complete study in all twelve counselor core function applications, including addiction screening, intake, assessment, counseling, crisis intervention, and more for a well-rounded program of study leading to exciting, entry-level counseling and case management positions.
Cypress College
School of Social Sciences
Cypress, CA
Website
AA in Human Services with a specialty area in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,656
Total tuition comes in at $15 below the state average for similar programs.
- Student-centered learning environment emphasizes education for the individual student
- Full-time tutors and counselors offer outstanding instructional support and guidance
- Comprehensive support services available: counseling, tutoring, career development, transfer assistance, and more
Cypress College’s options to explore alcohol and drug/addiction studies won’t disappoint! In addition to their value-based price tag, these programs boast the quality curriculum that prepares graduates to assume exciting, entry-level careers in public and private social services agencies focused on addiction. Fieldwork complements a variety of courses like Drugs and Alcohol in Our Society; Intervention Strategies; Crisis Intervention Referral; Behavior Modification; and Co-Occurring Disorders. Just some of the agencies and organizations where you can make a difference upon graduation include shelters, halfway homes, recovery centers, and sober living sites.
Santa Rosa Junior College
Human Services
Santa Rosa, CA
Website
AA in Social Work and Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Social Work and Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,932
- Outstanding legacy of excellence in education for more than 100 years
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution since 2014
- Superb support and assistance through Student Success Programs, which are focused on identifying and removing barriers to student success
Santa Rosa Junior College’s Social Work and Human Services programs feature Addiction Studies specialization options to provide students with outstanding pathways for careers in SUD counseling and support. These affordably priced programs prepare students with a comprehensive, broad-based curriculum that explores drug education and prevention, treatment issues, counseling skills, ethical issues, and practical knowledge about drugs and drug addiction. Graduates of these exciting programs are well-prepared to immediately assume positions with nonprofit, public, and private agencies.
Woodland Community College
Social Justice and Public Service interest area
Woodland, CA
Website
AS - Chemical Dependency Counselor (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement - Chemical Dependency Counselor (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,817
- Courses offered at the Woodland Campus, Lake County Campus, and online for maximum flexibility and convenience
- Superb resources and services available through the Student Success Center
- Drop-in and online tutoring available to all students
Woodland Community College offers two Chemical Dependency Counselor programs that are priced right and perfectly designed to provide you with a clear pathway to an exciting career in SUD counseling. Both programs prepare students to assume entry-level positions in a variety of settings, such as inpatient and outpatient substance abuse facilities, mental health facilities, shelters, and halfway houses. Courses are focused on a wide range of topics related to chemical dependency treatment, and a supervised internship allows students to begin practicing what they’ve learned in the classroom.
Mt. San Antonio College
Technology and Health Division, Mental Health Department
Walnut, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate in Addiction Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Ranked among the top 10 schools for transfer to the University of California, California State, and private colleges and universities
- Exciting opportunities to get involved and connect with peers – more than 50 student clubs and athletic programs
- Home to state-of-the-art facilities, classrooms, and workshops
Mt. San Antonio College’s Addiction Counseling programs come complete with attractive price tags and comprehensive curricula that seamlessly integrates theory with practical experience. Whether you’re planning to continue your education at the bachelor’s level or immediately enter the workforce upon graduation, Mt. San Antonio’s Addiction Counseling programs will prepare you to make a lasting impact on the field of addiction counseling.
Diablo Valley College
Social Sciences Interest Area
Pleasant Hill, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Counseling (on-campus)
AS in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Counseling (on-campus)
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,541
Total tuition comes in at $130 below the state average for similar programs.
- Seamless transfer opportunities with the University of California System
- Two, convenient campus locations in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon
- Outstanding transfer support services offered to targeted student populations like African-American, Chicano/Latino, American Indian, disabled, low-income, and other underrepresented students
Diablo Valley College offers outstanding affordability and a number of impressive opportunities to expand your knowledge of addiction counseling/studies! These programs prepare students through a dynamic curriculum in addiction, treatment, and the recovery process, thereby preparing them to assume exciting, fulfilling positions as social and human services assistants, substance abuse counselors, rehabilitation counselors, and more.
Imperial Valley College
Imperial, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Disorder Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Disorder Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Recipient of the 2023 Aspen Institute prize for Community Excellence – Top Community College in the nation
- Outstanding support services network includes counseling services, career services, tutoring, and more
- More than 50 campus clubs – engage with your peers and the community
Imperial Valley College offers exciting and affordable pathways to a career in SUD counseling through its Addiction Disorders Studies programs! Whether you’re interested in transferring to a four-year institution or entering the workforce upon graduation, Imperial Valley has the program you need to succeed. Graduates of these programs are prepared to understand the disease of addiction; counseling theory used in addiction counseling; and the critical thinking and skills needed to intervene with a co-dependent family. You’re sure to love the college’s outstanding network of educational and personal support services that include success counseling, mental health counseling, a disability center, military and veteran center, tutoring, and more.
City College of San Francisco
Health and Safety
San Francisco, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate in Addiction and Recovery Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,219
Total tuition comes in at $452 below the state average for similar programs.
- Flexible format features evening classes for maximum convenience
- Program is offered in part through a grant from the City and County of San Francisco Department of Health
- Seamless transfer opportunities to San Francisco State University, San Jose State University, University of California, and University of San Francisco Â
The City College of San Francisco’s programs in Addiction Studies and Addition and Recovery Counseling offer the best in value and quality! Students of these programs learn the latest and most innovative treatment methods, cutting-edge techniques, and skills needed to provide treatment to those with substance use disorders. Students of these programs learn from instructors who are also experienced professionals in the field. And graduates are well-prepared to assume positions as addiction counselors, recovery coaches, vocational specialists, and case managers in treatment and prevention programs.
Napa Valley College
Health Occupations
Napa, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,426
Total tuition comes in at $245 below the state average for similar programs.
- Excellent student transfer services to four-year colleges and universities offered through the Transfer Center
- Outstanding academic support services include career advising, personal counseling, transfer planning, and educational planning
Napa Valley College’s Addiction Studies programs are a standout for affordability and quality, offering outstanding pathways to an exciting career in substance abuse counseling. Counseling, case management, crisis intervention, relapse prevention – careers in SUD counseling are at your fingertips as a graduate of Napa Valley College’s programs in addiction studies.
Glendale Community College
Kumud Parikh Health Sciences Division
Glendale, CA
Website
AS in Addiction Studies Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate in Addiction Studies Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,794
- Glendale CC has one of the highest percentage of students transferring to four-year colleges and universities in the LA area
- One of the top 5 transfer colleges to UCLA, USC, CSUN, and CSULA
- Outstanding opportunities to explore your career interests through Career Adventures, an activity-based series
Glendale Community College’s programs in Addiction Studies Counseling are affordable and comprehensive, preparing students to perform a variety of duties associated with alcohol and drug counseling, including evaluation, assessment, case management, group and individual counseling, and providing treatments of care. Whether you have plans to continue your education at the bachelor’s level or prepare for immediate practice in this exciting and fulfilling field, Glendale Community College has what you need to succeed. In fact, for those with college transfer on their minds, Glendale Community College boasts some of the best transfer rates in the LA region!
Santa Barbara City College
Addictive Disorders Counseling
Santa Barbara, CA
Website
AS in Addictive Disorders Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Addictive Disorders Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,840
- One of the leading community colleges in California and the nation
- Outstanding transfer rates to four-year colleges and universities
- Seamlessly transfer to a four-year college or university through the University Transfer Center and SBCC University Transfer Academy
Santa Barbara City College’s Addictive Disorders Counseling programs aren’t just affordable, they’re designed to prepare entry-level addictions counselors of the highest caliber. In addition to theory, students of these programs gain valuable, hands-on experience through fieldwork in an agency dedicated to the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction. And for licensed clinicians seeking a program in addictions, the non-fieldwork-based Skills Competency Award: Post Professional Practice in Addictive Disorders Counseling provides the ideal curriculum for career advancement.
Palomar College
Social and Behavioral Sciences Division
San Marcos, CA
Website
AS in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,702
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Study at any of the college’s five, convenient campus locations
- Superb student resources include top-notch tutoring and academic support
Palomar College’s programs in Alcohol and Drug Studies offer value-based pathways to exciting career opportunities in substance abuse counseling. The certificate program features 11 courses that allow students to prepare for immediate employment in the field, while the associate degree program prepares students for either employment upon graduation or preparation for a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. With four campus options, you’re sure to love the flexibility that these programs provide.
Saddleback College
School of Health and Wellness
Mission Viejo, CA
Website
AS in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Alcohol and Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,840
- Superb student resources and services include academic support, career support, and transfer assistance
- Seamless transfer opportunities to California State University, the University of California, and many other private universities
- Dynamic learning experiences in simulated and real-world environments
Saddleback College’s Alcohol and Drug Studies programs aren’t just affordable, they’re comprehensive and complete, providing students with well-rounded programs of study that prepare them for the fulfilling SUD counseling profession. You’re sure to love the rich classroom experiences here that include well-equipped classrooms that are designed to simulate real-world environments, and the advanced practicums are designed to provide you with real-world training before you graduate.
Mendocino College
Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Studies
Ukiah, CA
Website
AS in Alcohol and Other Drugs Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Alcohol and Other Drugs Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,863
- 50+ years of excellence in education
- Seamless transfer opportunities to the University of California and California State University systems
- Home to more than a dozen student clubs and organizations
Mendocino College’s Alcohol and Other Drug Studies programs are priced right and ideally designed to prepare the next generation of competent, passionate SUD counselors. In addition to robust classroom theory, students of these programs begin putting their newly acquired skills and knowledge to work through practicum experiences in public and private agencies, institutions, and organizations. Just some of the courses studied here include Alcohol and Other Drugs; Physiology and Pharmacology of Alcohol and Other Drugs; Basic Skills for Human Service Workers; Intervention Theory and Techniques; and Community Prevention Theory and Practice.
Rio Hondo College
Behavioral and Social Sciences Area of Interest
Whittier, CA
Website
AS in Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,932
- Large college system serves about 20,000 students per semester
- Outstanding transfer guidance and support through the Transfer Center
- Superb array of students support services – counseling, tutoring, academic support, and more
Rio Hondo College’s Drug Studies associate degree and certificate programs boast the affordability you’re after and the quality you demand. These programs explore topics related to chemical dependency, case management and documentation, group leadership, counseling skills, and law and ethics in human services while also providing valuable, hands-on learning experiences through a field practicum/internship. Through these dynamic programs, students gain a deep understanding of concepts, theories, and techniques essential to the practice of addiction treatment.
Fresno City College
Social Sciences Division
Fresno, CA
Website
AS in Human Services with an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling option (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counseling option (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,702
- Outstanding legacy of educational excellence – first California Community College and second in the nation
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
- Seamless transfer opportunities to select University of California and California State University campuses
Fresno City College’s programs in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling offer an impressive value in higher education and the solid foundation needed to assume entry-level jobs in substance abuse counseling. Both the associate degree program and the certificate of achievement provide students with a broad understanding of the nation’s social welfare and alcohol and drug abuse counseling systems, thereby preparing them to pursue the exciting and fulfilling SUD counseling profession with a variety of nonprofit, private, and public agencies, institutions, and organizations.
Allan Hancock College
Health Sciences Pathway
Santa Maria, CA
Website
AS in Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Human Services-Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Certificate of Accomplishment in Human Services-Addiction Studies Advanced (on-campus)
Certificate of Accomplishment in Human Services-Addiction Studies Basic (on-campus)
Certificate of Accomplishment in Human Services-Addiction Studies Foundation (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $552
Total tuition comes in at $1,119 below the state average for similar programs.
- Ranked as one of the top five community colleges in California and among the best in the nation
- Expansive community college system enrolls about 10,000 students each semester
- Study at any of the college’s four, convenient locations: Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Ynez Valley, and Vandenberg Space Force Base
Allan Hancock College’s human services programs in Addiction Studies are rich in value and quality and designed to prepare you to become a valuable member of the exciting and rewarding SUD counseling profession. Social services, mental health, addiction treatment, substance abuse prevention… whatever area of the human services you’re interested in, Allan Hancock’s Addiction Studies programs are designed to prepare you to land immediate employment upon graduation or for future study at the bachelor’s level. Just some of the courses offered include Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Addiction; Basic Counseling Skills; Case Management Skills; Co-Occurring Disorders; and Drugs, the Brain, and the Body.
Cabrillo College
Division of Human Arts and Social Sciences
Aptos, CA
Website
AS in Human Services-Drug and Alcohol Studies Focus (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Drug and Alcohol Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,656
Total tuition comes in at $15 below the state average for similar programs.
- Transfer opportunities to the University of California and the California State University campuses
- Study at the college’s two, convenient locations
- Superb counseling resources include educational planning services, career counseling, transfer support, and more
Cabrillo College’s Drug and Alcohol Studies programs boast the value you’ve been looking for! Whether you have aspirations of pursuing a career in social work, counseling, substance abuse prevention, or substance abuse treatment, Cabrillo has what you need to succeed. These programs feature an overview of the human services field, alongside an exploration of the drug and alcohol treatment field. Service learning here is emphasized, with students gaining real-life skills through placement with local community programs and/or nonprofits.
Yuba College
Health and Medical Careers area of interest
Marysville, CA
Website
AS-Chemical Dependency Counselor (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,760
Total tuition comes in at $9 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement-Chemical Dependency Counselor (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,518
Total tuition comes in at $153 below the state average for similar programs.
- Long legacy of educational excellence – Yuba College has awarded more than 12,000 degrees and certificates in the last 20 years
- Seamless transfer opportunities available through the Yuba College Transfer Program – application workshops, transfer admission webinars, appointments with university representatives, and more
- Exciting opportunities to get involved through on-campus organizations and clubs
Yuba College’s Chemical Dependency Counselor associate degree and certificate programs come with an attractive price tag and the comprehensive preparation needed to prepare students to serve as competent professionals in rehab centers, halfway houses, shelters, inpatient and outpatient facilities, and more. Just some of the topics studied in these programs include Family and Addiction; Co-Occurring Disorders; Introduction to Case Management; and Introduction to Physiological and Psychological Effects of Drug Abuse. A supervised chemical dependency internship complements classroom theory and provides an outstanding opportunity to gain valuable, real-world skills.
Los Angeles Southwest College
Behavioral Social Sciences Pathway
Los Angeles, CA
Website
AA in Liberal Arts-Psychology of Substance Abuse (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,460
Total tuition comes in at $309 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Chemical Dependency Counselor Program (on-campus)
Skill Certificate-Chemical Dependency Specialist in Criminal Justice (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,353
Total tuition comes in at $318 below the state average for similar programs.
- Superb student resources and services offered through the Career Pathways & Jobs Center (Career Center)
- Transfer assistance and guidance available
- Outstanding academic counseling services
Los Angeles Southwest College offers affordable opportunities to explore the field of SUD counseling. The AA in Liberal Arts – Psychology of Substance Abuse is a unique program of study that offers a broad examination of substance abuse. The liberal arts foundation of this program helps students gain new perspectives on substance abuse and chemical dependency while providing them with opportunities to discover how to use different methods and practices to improve someone’s life. Just some of the courses offered in LASC’s chemical dependency and substance abuse programs include Understanding Addiction and Counseling; Clinical Counseling Laws and Ethics; Group Skills for Addiction Counselors; Addiction and the Family; and Addictions Treatment and Recovery.
San Diego City College
School of Behavioral and Social Science, Consumer and Family Studies
San Diego, CA
Website
AS in Behavioral Sciences-Alcohol and Other Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,220
Total tuition comes in at $549 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Achievement in Behavioral Sciences-Alcohol and Other Drug Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,351
Total tuition comes in at $320 below the state average for similar programs.
- Outstanding events, activities, workshops, and resources offered through the Office of Student ServicesÂ
- Convenient transfer opportunities – associate degree may be tailored a students’ specific transfer requirements
- Outstanding, 110-year legacy of academic excellence
San Diego City College’s programs in Behavioral Sciences – Alcohol and Other Drug Studies come with tuition rates that are designed to impress and robust courses of study that prepare students to land entry-level roles in counseling, case management, crisis management, and relapse prevention. In addition to a foundation in behavioral science and human service theory, students gain valuable, hands-on experience through internships.
College of the Redwoods
Career Education Division
Eureka, CA
Website
Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,679
- Focus on experiential learning – includes two internships for unparalleled, real-life experiences
- Study at any of the college’s five, convenient campus locations
- Superb student resources and services available through the Academic Support Center
The College of the Redwoods’ Certificate of Achievement in Addiction Studies offers value in higher education and a superb exploration of the field of substance abuse. We love the dynamic curriculum that includes two internships, each of which provides students with 150 hours of valuable, real-life experience in approved addiction treatment facilities. Students of this program learn to develop programs and processes that support the recovery process and relapse prevention, thereby preparing graduates to assume a variety of positions in nonprofit, public and private entities and organizations.
East Los Angeles College
Health Sciences
Monterey Park, CA
Website
Skills Certificate in Addiction Studies Prevention Specialist (on-campus)
Skills Certificate in Addiction Studies Recovery Specialist (on-campus)
Addiction Counselor Certificate of Achievement (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Specialist/Chemical Dependence Specialist in Criminal Justice Certificate of Achievement (online)
Substance Abuse Assessor Certificate of Achievement (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,656
Total tuition comes in at $15 below the state average for similar programs.
- Expansive community college system serves 14 communities – largest community college in California serves more than 30,000 students
- Home to a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities
- Programs blend classroom theory with practical experiences
East Los Angeles College offers a variety of exciting opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become a valuable member of the SUD counseling community. Offering outstanding value, these programs offer a prime blend of coursework theory and practical experiences to prepare graduates to serve clients with substance abuse issues in both public and private agencies. You’re sure to love the college’s multi-cultural campus community and modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities!
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA
Website
Certificate of Achievement Substance Abuse Counselor (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,564
Total tuition comes in at $17 below the state average for similar programs.
- Seamless transfer to the University of California and California State school systems
- Outstanding academic and personal guidance and support offered through the school’s Special Services and Support Programs
- Flexible format features your choice of on-campus or online study
San Joaquin Delta College’s Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate of Achievement offers value in higher education and outstanding flexibility! Offered as both an on-campus and online program, this exciting course of study is designed to prepare students to serve as addictions counselors, case managers, treatment specialists, prevention specialists, and more. As part of the school’s psychology program, students of this certificate of achievement will learn about the methods used in psychology to solve problems.
InterCoast Colleges
Orange, CA
Website
AAS in Substance Use Disorder Counseling (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $40,200
Total tuition comes in at $14,487 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling Studies (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $24,600
- Also offers: Bachelor of Applied Science in Addiction Studies
- Small class sizes offer a student-centered learning experience
- Outstanding flexibility – choose from morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend classes
InterCoast College’s AAS in Substance Use Disorder Counseling and Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling Studies offer exceptional value and the flexible formats that make earning an education in SUD counseling easier and more convenient than ever. Whether you have plans to pursue further education at the bachelor’s level, or you’re looking for a program that will prepare you for immediate entry into the field, InterCoast has the program for you! Students here learn from a faculty of experienced industry pros and enjoy the flexibility of morning, afternoon, evening, and online classes.
California Nurses Educational Institute
Rancho Mirage, CA
Website
Certified Alcohol and Drug Assistant Counselor (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,400
Total tuition comes in at $2,300 below the state average for similar programs.
- Superb job placement program
- Flexible format features your choice of on-campus and online courses
- Career-focused program can be completed in just nine months
The California Nurses Educational Institute’s Certified Alcohol and Drug Assistant Counselor program ranks among the most affordable of its kind in California and is offered in a flexible format that features your choice of on-campus or online study. This comprehensive, well-balanced program features class lectures, demonstrations, and an externship at a qualified treatment facility. This program can be completed in just nine months!
National University
JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences
San Diego, CA
Website
Undergraduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,100
Total tuition comes in at $5,600 below the state average for similar programs.
- Also offers: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Systemic Treatment of Addictions
- Flexible format features your choice of on-campus or online study, four-week courses, and year-round enrollment
- Whole Human Education™ approach to learning – designed for busy adults and working professionals
- Outstanding history of academic achievement – 240,000+ alumni
National University’s Undergraduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling has everything you’re looking for – value, quality and flexibility. Priced more than $5,000 below the state average for similar programs, this program offers outstanding affordability. And its flexible format includes your choice of on-campus or online study and convenient, four-week courses that accommodate your busy schedule. In addition to a robust course of classroom study, you’ll also complete a substance abuse counseling practicum designed to provide you with invaluable, hands-on experience.
Oregon (public)
Portland Community College
Public Service and Education pathway
Portland, OR
Website
Associate-Addiction Counselor (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,648
Addiction Studies Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,632
Total tuition comes in at $23 below the state average for similar programs.
- Exciting transfer opportunities available to four-year colleges and universities
- Superb practicum opportunities with major addiction treatment facilities in the Portland metro area
- Outstanding, personalized learning supported by one-on-one academic advising
Portland Community College is home to an associate degree and certificate program in Addiction Studies, both of which offer outstanding value in higher education! Offering a robust course of study, these programs include contemporary courses like Drug Use and Addiction; Women and Addiction; Multicultural Counseling; and Theories of Counseling. The AAS is ideally designed for students without any post-secondary degree, while the Addiction Studies Certificate is best suited for students who have already earned an associate degree or above in a related field. Students of the AAS study within a cohort and engage in dynamic and exciting practical experiences at some of the largest addiction treatment facilities in the Portland metro area.
Rogue Community College
Social Science Department
Grants Pass, OR
Website
AAS in Human Services with a Certificate of Completion in Addiction Studies included (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,800
Total tuition comes in at $196 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Completion in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,880
Total tuition comes in at $2,775 below the state average for similar programs.
- Exciting transfer opportunities available
- Two campus locations for maximum flexibility and convenience
- 24/7 resources and support available through the Virtual Student Center
Rogue Community College offers two programs in Addiction Studies, both of which are priced below the state average among similar programs and designed to prepare students to become outstanding members of the SUD counseling community. The Certificate of Completion in Addiction Studies is offered both as a stand-alone program and as an embedded certificate within the AAS in Human Services, thereby serving students with different academic needs. The AAS degree is ideally designed for new students, while the certificate as a stand-alone program is designed to suit those who have already earned an associate degree or higher in a related field. Whether you’re looking for a program that will qualify you for CADC certification, further education at the bachelor’s level, or both, Rogue Community College has the program for you!
Klamath Community College
Criminal Justice
Klamath Falls, OR
Website
AAS in Criminal Justice with an Addiction Studies Career Pathway Certificate or Addiction Studies Certificate included (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,695
Total tuition comes in at $301 below the state average for similar programs.
Addiction Studies Career Pathway Certificate (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,405
Total tuition comes in at $250 below the state average for similar programs.
- Exciting transfer opportunities available to a number of colleges and universities – the college has articulation agreements with Southern Oregon University’s criminal justice program and Oregon Institute of Technology’s applied psychology program
- Outstanding career resources and services include resume writing assistance, job interview preparation, and more
- Two certificate programs are designed to suit students with different career and academic goals
Look no further for outstanding value in SUD counseling education in Oregon! Klamath Community College offers no less than three options to advance your education in Addiction Studies, all of which are priced below the state average among similar programs. The AAS in Criminal Justice offers a foundation in criminal justice that is complemented with either the Addiction Studies Certificate or the Career Pathway Certificate in Addiction Studies. Choose the one-year Addiction Studies Certificate and you’ll meet the educational requirements for CADC certification. Or choose the Career Pathway Certificate in Addiction Studies if you’re interested in preparing to enter the field as an entry-level counselor.
Central Oregon Community College
Human Services
Bend, OR
Website
AAS in Addiction Studies and Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,620
Total tuition comes in at $376 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Completion in Addiction Studies and Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,794
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment features a dedicated faculty of leaders in their field and a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 15:1
- Superb practicum placement at local human services agencies
Central Oregon Community College’s programs in Addiction Studies and Human Services are priced right and designed to provide you with a solid foundation for success in the rewarding substance abuse counseling field. The two-year Certificate of Completion comes complete with an optimum blend of coursework and practical experiences that prepares students to sit for the CADC exam, and the AAS degree builds on the Certificate of Completion in Addiction Studies and Human Services and qualifies students to sit for the CADC II exam. You’re sure to love the exceptional internship experiences available here, many of which are found at agencies like Cascade Crest Transitions, BestCare, Bridging the Gap Treatment Services, and New Priorities Family Services.
Treasure Valley Community College
Department of Addiction Studies
Ontario, OR
Website
AAS in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $8,550
Total tuition comes in at $2,446 below the state average for similar programs.
Career Pathways Certificate in Addiction Studies-Recovery Coach (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,938
Total tuition comes in at $3,717 below the state average for similar programs.
- Quiet, rural campus boasts small class sizes and personal attention from a dedicated faculty
- Long history of academic excellence – educating students since 1962
Treasure Valley Community College’s programs in Addiction Studies come in strong with some of the lowest tuition rates in the state. The AAS in Addiction Studies features a blend of classroom theory and practical training and is designed to prepare students to sit for the CADC exam, while the Career Pathways Certificate offers a short-term program that prepares students for immediate entry into the field. Whether you’re interested in further study at the bachelor’s level or a streamlined course of study that qualifies you for a host of entry-level jobs in the rewarding SUD counseling field, Treasure Valley CC’s Addiction Studies programs are designed with your goals in mind!
Washington (public)
Skagit Valley College
Public Service and Social Science
Mount Vernon, WA
Website
AAS in Human Services-Substance Use Disorder Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,403
Certificate in Human Services-Substance Use Disorder Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $4,841
- Exciting transfer opportunities available to Skagit Valley College’s BAS in Management SVC’s BAS in Environmental Conservation
- Dedicated faculty and small class sizes deliver a personalized learning experience
- Outstanding student services and resources available
Skagit Valley College’s human services programs with substance use disorder counseling concentrations serve as affordably priced pathways to the exciting and fulfilling SUD counseling field. The AAS in Human Services provides students with a comprehensive, generalist education for employment in a variety of human services agencies, while the emphasis in Substance Use Disorder Counseling allows students to focus their study on the addictions field. Offering an ideal blend of classroom learning and practical experiences, graduates of this program are prepared to either enter the field immediately upon graduation or continue their education at the bachelor’s level.
Yakima Valley College
Social Sciences and Education
Yakima, WA
Website
AAS - Substance Use Disorder (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,170
Substance Use Disorder Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,215
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Exciting career services include career workshops focused on job searches, interviewing, resumes, and cover letters
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
Yakima Valley College’s Substance Use Disorder programs boast the affordable price tags that today’s discerning students demand. These exciting courses of study explore the theories and practices associated with SUD counseling while offering a student-centered learning environment that’s dedicated to ensuring students experience success upon graduation. The AAS in Substance use Disorder provides students with a comprehensive academic pathway leading to the SUDPT certificate, while the certificate program is ideally designed for students who have already completed an associate degree or higher and are looking for the education that will qualify them for state certification as an SUDPT.
Clark College
Addiction Counselor Education Department
Vancouver, WA
Website
AA/AAS in Addiction Counselor Education (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,137
Certificate of Proficiency in Addiction Counselor Education (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,540
- Outstanding student support services include free tutoring and free student success workshops throughout the course of your program
- Exciting transfer opportunities available
Clark College’s AA/AAS in Addiction Counselor Education is priced to impress and designed to prepare you to pursue your passion for helping others in the highly rewarding addictions field. Offering a contemporary exploration of the field that includes both theories and practical methods of coordinating clinical care and providing counseling for those with substance use disorders, this program provides students with opportunities to apply what they’ve learned in local addiction treatment agencies. Interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree after graduation? Then the AA is designed with you in mind!
Lower Columbia College
Health Sciences and Wellness
Longview, WA
Website
AA (Direct Transfer), AAS, AAS-Transfer in Substance Use Disorder Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,080
- Exciting transfer opportunities available to four-year colleges and universities
- Transfer opportunities to Washington State University, Western Governors University, the University of Washington, and more
- Top-notch career and employment services include job search assistance, career counseling, and career resources
Lower Columbia College’s associate degree programs are expertly designed to align with your specific career and academic goals! Whether you have future study at the bachelor’s level on your mind, or your goals include entering the job field upon graduation, these affordably priced programs will get you where you want to be. All of these programs include a contemporary exploration of alcohol and addiction treatment of individuals, with courses focused on topics like cultural diversity, health issues, community resources, individual and group counseling, relapse prevention, and more.
Centralia College
Social Sciences and Human Services
Centralia, WA
Website
AAS-Substance Use Disorder Professional (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,785
- Student-centered learning environment features a low, 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Outstanding legacy of academic excellence – oldest two-year public college in Washington State
- Flexible format boasts your choice of on-campus, online, or hybrid study
Centralia College’s AAS in Substance Use Disorder Professional boasts an affordable price tag and a comprehensive course of education that’s designed to meet the educational requirements for SUDPT certification. It also serves as the ideal precursor to a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Choose Centralia College for your SUD counseling degree and you’ll be well-prepared to assume entry-level jobs in hospitals, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation facilities, correctional facilities, halfway houses, homeless shelters, and more. You’re sure to love studying at a school that boasts a student-centered learning environment and a low, 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio!
Northwest Indian College
Bellingham, WA
Website
Associate of Technical Arts in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,603
Total tuition comes in at $100 below the state average for similar programs.
- Choose online or on-campus study for maximum convenience and flexibility
- Study at the main campus at the Lummi Nation, or at one of the college’s six, full-service extended campus sites
- Superb, student-centered learning experience boasts a low, 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Northwest Indian College’s Associate of Technical Arts in Chemical Dependency Studies is flexible and affordable, boasting a tuition that falls below the state average! Choose Northwest Indian College for your SUD counseling degree and you’ll enjoy a course of study that’s grounded in a Native American Studies curriculum and delivered in an on-campus or online format. In addition to providing students with the coursework needed to earn the SUDPT in Washington State, this program is ideally designed to prepare you for immediate entry into this rewarding field. More than 75 percent of the students here are from a federally recognized Indian tribe, with more than 90 different Tribal nations represented.
Wenatchee Valley College
Health and Human Services
Wenatchee, WA
Website
Associate of Technical Science in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,579
Total tuition comes in at $124 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Completion in Chemical Dependency Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,545
Total tuition comes in at $3,062 below the state average for similar programs.
- Personalized learning experience boasts a dedicated faculty and small class sizes
- Free college readiness course offered to new students
- Study at the Wenatchee or Omak campus
Wenatchee Valley College’s programs in Chemical Dependency Studies offer attractive price tags that fall below the state average among similar programs. The Associate of Technical Science degree fulfills the educational requirements for SUDPT certification, while the Certificate of Completion program provides an ideal addition to any human services degree. Just some of the other reasons why we love Wenatchee Valley College’s programs in chemical dependency include small class sizes, a dedicated faculty, and a student-centered learning environment that boasts plenty of personal attention.
Peninsula College
Public Service and Social Science
Mount Vernon, WA
Website
Associate Degree in Addiction Studies (AAS, AAS-Transfer) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,579
Total tuition comes in at $124 below the state average for similar programs.
Addiction Studies Short Term Certificate (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Counseling and Wellness Short Term Certificate (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Counseling and Case Management Short Term Certificate (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Addictive Drugs Studies Short Term Certificate (on-campus)
Addiction Studies Youth Addiction Studies Short Term Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,957
Total tuition comes in at $2,650 below the state average for similar programs.
- Graduates can easily transfer to the school’s BAS in Behavioral Healthcare
- Prime, student-centered learning environment boasts an average class size of just 11
- Home to an esteemed faculty of award-winning instructors
Peninsula College offers a host of programs for aspiring SUD counselors that are priced to impress! The AAS in Addiction Studies is designed in two formats to accommodate students with plans of either pursuing study at the bachelor’s level or immediately entering the workforce upon graduation. This exciting program features coursework in counseling, case management, psychology, sociology, ethics, law, and physiology. It also includes internship experiences for outstanding, hands-on learning. Whether you’re seeking a full program that meets the educational requirements for SUDPT certification, or you’re interested in adding a short-term proficiency certificate to your previous education or work experience, you’re sure to find the program that meets your educational and professional goals at Peninsula College.
Edmonds College
Human Services and Behavioral Health
Lynnwood, WA
Website
Associate in Addiction Studies (Associate of Technical Arts, AAS-Transfer) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Addiction Studies Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $7,828
- Student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Ideally designed to prepare students for future bachelor’s study or immediate employment in the field
- Outstanding resources and services available through the Career Action Center
Edmonds College’s programs in Addiction Studies boast the affordability that today’s discerning students demand. Offered as a career- or transfer-focused course of study, the Associate in Addiction Studies boasts a holistic behavioral health care approach to the field of SUD counseling that satisfies the educational requirements for SUDPT certification while also preparing students for either future study at the bachelor’s level or immediate employment in this rewarding field. You’re sure to love studying at a college that boasts a student-centered learning environment courtesy of a low, student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1.
Spokane Falls Community College
Education, Social and Behavioral Sciences
Spokane, WA
Website
AAS in Addiction Studies (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
- Convenient and flexible – choose from four start dates per year and online or on-campus study
- Graduates can easily transfer to the school’s BAS in Integrated Behavioral Health
- Seamless transfer opportunities to a number of schools, including Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, Evergreen State College, Western Governors University, and more
Spokane Falls Community College’s AAS in Addiction Studies not only offers value in higher education for the aspiring SUD counselor, but it also boasts the convenience of your choice of on-campus or online course delivery and four start dates per year for maximum flexibility! This exciting course of study, which is expertly designed to meet the educational requirements for SUDPT certification, boasts an exploration of substance use disorders and other addictions, along with case management and counseling. Practical experiences complement classroom theory here, thereby offering students a well-rounded course of study that prepares them for either immediate employment in the field or future bachelor’s degree study at a four-year college or university.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
School of Health Sciences
Kirkland, WA
Website
AAS in Behavioral and Social Services with a Certificate of Completion in Substance Use Disorders Counseling included (online, on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Completion-Substance Use Disorders Counseling (online, on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,545
Total tuition comes in at $3,062 below the state average for similar programs.
- Flexible and convenient – features both online and on-campus courses
- Student-centered learning environment features small class sizes and a dedicated faculty
- Exciting opportunities for hands-on learning – partner agencies include Crisis Connections, Overlake Hospital, ACRS Behavioral Health, IKRON, Northpoint Recovery, and more
Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers two SUD counseling education options, both of which are expertly priced below the state average among similar programs! Choose the AAS in Behavioral and Social Services with the embedded Certificate of Completion of Substance Use Disorders Counseling and you’ll meet the educational requirements for SUDPT certification in Washington. Do you already have a degree in a human services field? Complete the Certificate of Completion in Substance Use Disorders Counseling and you’ll also meet SUDPT educational requirements. We love this school’s student-centered learning environment that boasts small class sizes, a dedicated faculty, and a flexible format that includes both online and on-campus courses.
Highline College
Education and Human Services
Des Moines, WA
Website
AAS-Substance Use Disorder Professional (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate-Substance Use Disorder Professional for Behavioral Health Professionals (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,545
Total tuition comes in at $3,062 below the state average for similar programs.
- Graduates can easily transfer to the school’s BAS in Human Services, Seattle Central College’s BAS in Applied Behavioral Health
- Top transfer institutions include Seattle Central College and Evergreen State College – Tacoma
- Ranked among the top community colleges in the nation by Washington Monthly
Highline College’s Substance Use Disorder Professional programs are priced with value in mind and expertly designed for your academic and professional success! Choose the AAS in Substance Use Disorder Professional and you’ll not only meet the educational requirements needed for SUDPT certification in Washington State, you’ll also be well-prepared for future bachelor’s study and for immediate employment in this fulfilling and exciting SUD counseling field. Many students of this program go on to earn Highline College’s BAS in Human Services. Choose Highline College for your SUD counseling education and you’ll be part of a school that’s been ranked among the top community colleges in the nation by Washington Monthly!
Whatcom Community College
Healthcare and Social Services
Bellingham, WA
Website
AAS-Substance Use Disorder Professional (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate-Substance Use Disorder Professional (on-campus)
Certificate of Proficiency-Substance Use Disorder Professional Alternative Training (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,695
- Student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a superb faculty of subject matter experts and practitioners
- Graduates can easily transfer to the school’s BAS in Social Work and LWTech’s BAS in Behavioral Health
- Flexible course design features many evening and hybrid courses
Whatcom Community College offers three affordable educational pathways in Substance Use Disorder Professional to meet you where you’re at in your career! Choose the AAS – Substance Use Disorder Professional and you’ll not only meet the educational requirements for SUDPT certification, but you’ll also be well-prepared to confidently enter the field and begin working at public, private, and nonprofit agencies and organizations focused on addiction prevention and treatment. We love the flexibility of this program, which features many evening courses, along with some hybrid courses that blend on-campus and online study.
Seattle Central College
Education and Human Services
Seattle, WA
Website
AAS-Transfer in Social and Human Services with a Chemical Dependency Specialist Certificate included (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Chemical Dependency Specialist Certificate (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,356
- Flexible day and evening classes offered
- Home to a dedicated faculty with real-world experience
- Small, personalized learning experience
Seattle Central College’s programs for aspiring SUD counselors are sure to impress you with their value! The AAS – Transfer in Social and Human Services comes complete with an embedded Chemical Dependency Specialist Certificate to provide students with an outstanding course of study that prepares them for either immediate employment in the field or future bachelor’s study. The program’s focus on real-world training means that you’ll graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to assume a variety of jobs in settings like hospitals, halfway houses, community programs, and inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation centers. There are plenty of other reasons you’ll want to choose Seattle Central for your education in SUD counseling, such as flexible classes that include day and evening options; a skilled faculty who bring years of practical experience to the classroom; and a personalized, student-centered learning environment.
Olympic College
Social Science, Service and Education pathway
Bremerton, WA
Website
Associate Degree in Human Services-Substance Use Disorder Professional Counseling (AAS-Transfer, Associate in Technical Arts) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,270
Total tuition comes in at $433 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Proficiency in Human Services-Substance Use Disorder Professional (on-campus)
Certificate of Completion in Human Services-Substance Use Disorder Professional Certification with Alternative Training-Fast Track (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,253
- Ranked among the Top 10 Community Colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
- Convenient and flexible – study at the Bremerton, Poulsbo, or Shelton campus
- Seamless transfer opportunities to many four-year colleges and universities
Whether you’re looking for a quick, career-focused course of study or a complete program that prepares you for state certification and future bachelor’s degree study, Olympic College’s Substance Use Disorder programs won’t disappoint! The Associate in Technical Arts is ideally designed to fulfill the educational requirements for certification as a SUDPT in Washington, while the AAS-transfer boasts the foundation you’ll want if future study at the bachelor’s level is part of your career plans. Olympic College also includes a unique offering through its Substance Use Disorder Professional Certification with Alternative Training for currently practicing healthcare professionals (e.g., APRNs, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, physician assistants, physicians, etc.) interested in fulfilling the educational requirements to become an SUDP.
Eastern Washington University
College of Professional Programs, School of Social Work
Cheney, WA
Website
Certificate in Addiction Studies Suicide Assessment-Treatment and Management (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,430
Total tuition comes in at $2,177 below the state average for similar programs.
- Also offers: Minor in Addiction Counseling and Prevention, Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies, MA in Addiction Studies, Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies Licensed Professionals, MA in Advanced Addiction Therapies, BA in Addiction Studies
- Convenient and flexible online format
- Designed to complement an EWU degree
- Ranked second in Washington for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
- Expansive alumni network of 116,000+
At more than $2,000 below the state average among similar programs, Eastern Washington University’s Certificate in Addiction Studies Suicide Assessment – Treatment and Management is a model of value in Washington State! This uniquely designed program is for currently enrolled EWU students and serves as an ideal addition to your degree program. It covers the clinical and professional practice of assessment, treatment, and management of suicidal behaviors, with courses exploring the addiction process and issues related to suicide, mental health, and addiction. You’re sure to love the online design of this program that ensures outstanding flexibility and convenience!
Mountain
Arizona (public)
Rio Salado College
Behavioral Science and Human Services Field of Interest
Tempe, AZ
Website
AAS in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders (online)
AA with an emphasis in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,820
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Substance Use Prevention and Interventions (on-campus)
CCL in Workforce Development-Foundations in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders (online)
CCL in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders Level I (online)
CCL in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders Level II (online)
CCL in Professional Addictions Counseling (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,940
- Flexible scheduling includes 40+ start dates for classes and a host of online, on-campus, and hybrid courses
- Home to a myriad of civic engagement and student groups to connect with your peers and the community
- One-on-one tutoring and counseling services available to all students
Looking for an associate degree or certificate program leading to an exciting career in substance abuse counseling? Look no further than Rio Salado College, which offers an outstanding selection of programs that boast superb affordability! Choose the associate degree if you have plans to pursue further education at the bachelor’s level or choose a certificate program if you’re looking for a course of study that will prepare you for the real world in just a few months!
Mohave Community College
Health and Public Services Division
Colorado City, AZ
Website
AA in Substance Abuse Counseling (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,642
Total tuition comes in at $89 below the state average for similar programs.
Substance Abuse Counseling Post-Degree Certificate (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,184
- 50-year history of providing affordable education to students of the community
- 100% self-paced and competency-based programs allow students to complete their programs at their own pace
- Outstanding student support – instructors help students facilitate their transition from one course to the next
Mohave Community College’s AA and post-degree certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling offer affordability, convenience, and the preparation you’ll need to begin working toward a career in SUD counseling! In addition to the school’s attractive tuition rates, it’s one of just 29 schools in the country to earn the prestigious credential through the National Studies Accreditation Commission. The programs here are self-paced, thereby allowing students to complete their course of study according to their own schedule. As you learn the class material, you move forward, and instructors are always here to help and guide you as you transition from one course to the next.
Tohono O'odham Community College
Sells, AZ
Website
Certificate in Substance Abuse and Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,054
Total tuition comes in at $672 below the state average for similar programs.
- Credits from the certificate can be applied towards an AA in Social Work
- Small, student-centered learning environment
- Part of the 37-member tribal college system
Tohono O’odham Community College’s Certificate in Substance Abuse and Addiction Studies builds on the college’s long history of serving the residents of the Tohono O’odham Nation and others in the community. Offering a comprehensive program that’s designed to prepare you for a variety of positions in the field of substance abuse counseling, this program comes complete with an outstanding tuition rate and courses like introduction to substance abuse, social service delivery systems, and group technique application.
Arizona (private)
California Southern University
School of Behavioral Sciences
Chandler, AZ
Website
Certificate in Addiction Studies (online)
Only private SUD certificate program in Arizona.
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,475
- Also offers: Graduate Certificate in Advanced Addiction Studies
- Outstanding convenience: 100% fully online program features monthly class starts and a self-directed approach to learning
- Superb faculty mentors are also working professionals in the field
California Southern University’s Certificate in Addiction Studies is affordable and convenient, offering students an outstanding tuition rate and a fully online format. Ideally designed for students who are pursuing undergraduate studies at the university and want to earn CADC I/II certification, this program explores addiction and addictive behavior to allow students to better understand and treat individuals with substance use disorders.
Colorado (public)
Colorado Mountain College
Human Services, Social Sciences and Education academic pathway
Glenwood Springs, CO
Website
AA with an emphasis in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,240
Only public SUD associate degree program in Colorado.
Certificate-Certified Addiction Technician (CAT) (on-campus)
Certificate-Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,144
Total tuition comes in at $2,470 below the state average for similar programs.
- Program also available at Colorado Mountain College in Breckenridge, Carbondale, Dillon, Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Steamboat Springs, Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs, and Vail Eagle Valley at Edwards
- Ranked among the top schools in the nation for student success by CNN/Money Magazine and among the top community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute
- Designated Hispanic Serving Institution
Colorado Mountain College’s programs in Addiction Studies prepare students to work in a variety of treatment settings and with various populations. Affordably priced for budget-conscious students, these programs prepare students to learn the core competencies for behavioral and counseling work. Students of these programs may also go on to complete bachelor’s degree in human services, mental health, counseling, or psychology, including CMC’s BA in Human Services. You’re sure to love earning your education in addiction studies at a school that’s been ranked among the top in the nation for student success by CNN/Money Magazine and the Aspen Institute!
Idaho (public)
Boise State University
College of Health Sciences, School of Social Work
Boise, ID
Website
Certificate in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,664
Only public SUD certificate program in Idaho.
- Expansive university system serves more than 33,000 students annually
- Superb alumni network of 100,000+
- Ranked among the top colleges in Idaho for student life
Offering a prime tuition rate through an esteemed state university, Boise State University’s Certificate in Addiction Studies is where students learn the skills and competencies necessary to become competent professionals in the field of substance abuse counseling. Ideally designed to complement an undergraduate or graduate degree, this program features just three courses: Motivational Interviewing, Introduction to Drugs and Society; and Assessment and Case Management of Behavioral Health Disorders. Choose Boise State and you’ll be part of a legacy of academic excellence that boasts an alumni network of 100,000+.
Montana (public)
Blackfeet Community College
Division of Human Services
South Browning, MT
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $7,200
- Comprehensive program provides a blend of classroom theory and practical learning experiences
- Prepare for immediate employment or for future bachelor’s degree study
- Comprehensive preparation for Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor certification
Blackfeet Community College’s AA in Addiction Studies is expertly designed to prepare students to become successful professionals in the field of alcohol and drug counseling. Whether you’re interested in starting your career or building a pathway to a bachelor’s degree, this program is designed to provide you with everything you need to succeed. Just some of the courses you’ll explore through this exciting course of study include Human Services, Psychology, Chemical Dependency, and Criminal Justice. Blackfeet Community College provides post-secondary educational programs to the Blackfeet Nation.
Little Big Horn College
Crow Agency, MT
Website
AA in Human Services-Addiction Studies option (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,742
Total tuition comes in at $1,191 below the state average for similar programs.
- Comprehensive preparation for Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor certification
- Ideally designed to prepare students for either immediate employment or for future study at the bachelor’s level
Little Big Horn College’s AA in Human Services features an Addiction Studies option and offers outstanding affordability. This program, which explores the professional, legal, ethical, and cultural aspects of human services counseling, provides students with the education necessary to pursue licensure as a Licensed Addiction Counselor. It provides a comprehensive course of education for students whose goals include immediately entering the workforce upon graduation or continuing their education at a four-year college or university. Little Big Horn College is chartered by the Crow Tribe of Indians, and its programs are directly related to the job opportunities and economic development on the Crow Indian Reservation and surrounding communities.
Aaniiih Nakoda College
Harlem, MT
Website
AA in Human Services with an option in Chemical Dependency Counseling (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,360
Total tuition comes in at $1,573 below the state average for similar programs.
- Intimate, student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Free Incoming Students course through the school’s College Success Academy
- Comprehensive preparation for Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor certification
Aaniih Nakoda College’s AA in Human Services offers an option in Chemical Dependency Counseling, an affordable and comprehensive pathway to Montana’s LAC designation and an exciting and fulfilling career in substance abuse counseling. This program boasts a blend of classroom and experiential learning, along with assistance as you prepare to take the certification exam. This college is focused on providing exceptional education for the residents of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and surrounding communities and promoting indigenous lifeways for the Aaniinen and Nakoda Tribes.
Chief Dull Knife College
Lame Deer, MT
Website
AA in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,250
Total tuition comes in at $1,683 below the state average for similar programs.
- Ideally designed for either immediate entry into the field or future bachelor’s study
- Small class sizes ensure a personalized learning experience
- Comprehensive preparation for Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor certification
Priced more than $1,600 below the state average among similar programs, Chief Dull Knife College’s AA in Addiction Studies is home to exceptional affordability! Designed as both an entry into the field or as a pathway to a bachelor’s degree, this exciting program prepares students to sit for Montana’s LAC exam and begin their career in the rewarding field of substance abuse counseling. Chief Dull Knife College serves the Cheyenne Indian Reservation of southeastern Montana and the five reservation districts of Ashland, Birney, Busby, Lame Deer, and Muddy Creek.
Fort Peck Community College
Poplar, MT
Website
AA in Chemical Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $4,340
Total tuition comes in at $2,593 below the state average for similar programs.
- Small, student-centered learning environment ensures a personalized learning experience
- Designed for either immediate employment or as preparation for study at the bachelor’s level
- Comprehensive preparation for Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor certification
Fort Peck Community College’s AA in Chemical Addiction Studies is priced to impress and designed to prepare students to earn Montana’s LAC designation. In addition to boasting a tuition that falls more than $2,500 below the state average among similar programs, this program features a contemporary curriculum that prepares students for either immediate employment in the field or for future study at the bachelor’s level. Just some of the courses in this program include Theories of Counseling, Pharmacology/Addictions, Group Counseling, and Introduction to Social Welfare. Fort Peck is a tribally controlled community college that provides education for the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes.
Stone Child College
Box Elder, MT
Website
AS in Addiction Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $4,270
Total tuition comes in at $2,633 below the state average for similar programs.
- Outstanding preparation for certification as a Licensed Addiction Counselor in Montana
- Designed for either immediate employment or for future bachelor’s degree study
- Initiate learning environment features small class sizes and personal attention
At more than $2,600 below the state average among similar programs, Stone Child College’s AS in Addiction Studies offers superb affordability for tomorrow’s competent and compassionate substance abuse counselors. Whether you’re preparing for Montana’s LAC certification or for future study at the bachelor’s level, this comprehensive course of study is designed with you in mind. Just some of the courses of this associate degree program include Multi-Cultural Counseling, Addiction Counseling, Addiction Assessment, and Human Services Addiction Studies. Stone Child College is a tribally chartered college that’s focused on providing education for the Chippewa Cree Tribe and preserving the Chippewa Cree language, culture, and history.
University of Montana
Missoula College, Department of Applied Arts and Sciences
Missoula, MT
Website
Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) in Addiction Studies (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $3,950
Only public SUD certificate program in Montana.
- University ranked first in the nation for its contribution to the public good by Washington Monthly
- Option to earn an associate degree by combing the Addiction Studies CTS with a General Studies Certificate
- Student-centered learning environment features a low, 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Boasts a convenient, online format
The University of Montana’s Certificate of Technical Studies in Addiction features an affordable price tag and a convenient, online format. Designed as an exploration of substance abuse and addictive disorders, this program provides an exciting course of study for students who want to prepare to earn Montana’s LAC designation. Combine the Addiction Studies CTS with a General Studies Certificate to complete an associate degree! You’re sure to love earning your SUD counseling education through this esteemed institution that’s long been ranked first in the nation for its contribution to the public good by Washington Monthly.
Nevada (public)
Great Basin College
Elko, NV
Website
AAS in Human Services with a Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,431
Only public SUD associate degree program in Nevada.
Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,130
- Also offers: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine, Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services-Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine emphasis
- Flexible and convenient - must of the coursework can be completed online, through interactive video, or by independent study
- Outstanding opportunities for hands-on learning through job shadowing and community field experiences
Great Basin College offers two affordable pathways to the fulfilling substance counseling profession! Choose the AAS in Human Services with the embedded Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training and you’ll complete an exciting blend of classroom and experiential learning for a truly well-rounded course of study designed to prepare you for either immediate employment in the field of substance abuse counseling or for future study at the bachelor’s level. Graduates of this program serve as competent and compassionate professionals in social services agencies, mental health centers, correctional institutions, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities, and more. You’re sure to love the real-world, hands-on training here that’s completed through job shadowing and community field experiences!
University of Nevada, Reno
School of Public Health, CASAT (Center for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies)
Reno, NV
Website
Certificate in Addiction Treatment Services (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $4,734
Total tuition comes in at $198 below the state average for similar programs.
- Also offers: Minor in Addiction Treatment, Graduate Certificate in Addiction Treatment, Advanced Certificate in Addiction Treatment Services, MS in Human Development and Family Studies-Addiction Treatment Services specialization
- University of Nevada Reno ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Exceptional flexibility – your choice of on-campus and online courses
The University of Nevada Reno’s Certificate in Addiction Treatment Services offers everything aspiring SUD counselors could want – affordability, flexibility, and academic excellence! Priced below the state average among similar programs, this certificate programs boasts exceptional value in higher education. And thanks to its flexible format options, students here have the opportunity to study online, on-campus, or through a blend of the two. This program is offered as part of the university’s renowned Center for the Application of Substance Abuse Technologies (CASAT), which allows students to explore the field of substance abuse counseling through classroom learning, supervised practice, and observation of clinical situations. Since its inception in 1993, CASAT has become a leading center for undergraduate and graduate students seeking exceptional education and training in substance abuse prevention and treatment.
New Mexico (public)
Central New Mexico Community College
School of Health, Wellness and Public Safety (HWPS)
Albuquerque, NM
Website
AA in Human Services with a Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate included (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $3,233
Total tuition comes in at $2,885 below the state average for similar programs.
Certificate of Completion-Substance Abuse Counselor (on-campus, hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,060
Total tuition comes in at $889 below the state average for similar programs.
- Outstanding convenience and flexibility – choose from on-campus, online, or hybrid study
- Full- and part-time study available
- Excellent student resources and services include Career Coach, where students can explore careers based on their interests
Central New Mexico Community College’s programs in Substance Abuse Counselor are priced among the best of the best in New Mexico! The Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate is a 20-credit program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in entry-level positions in inpatient and outpatient rehab centers, DUI programs, halfway houses, and more. The AA in Human Services includes this embedded certificate to meet the educational requirement for the Licensed Substance Abuse Associate designation in New Mexico. Choose from part-time or full-time study and prepare for either immediate employment or future bachelor’s study – the choice is yours!
Santa Fe Community College
School of Liberal Arts
Santa Fe, NM
Website
AA in Human Services with an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling Certificate included (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $2,340
Total tuition comes in at $778 below the state average for similar programs.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling Certificate (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $722
Total tuition comes in at $1,227 below the state average for similar programs.
- Designated Military Friendly school
- Superb flexibility includes your choice of on-campus or online study
- Outstanding Career and Transfer Services assistance include in-person and online appointments, career exploration, resume help, and on-campus career and transfer fairs
Santa Fe Community College’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling programs are both priced with maximum value in mind and offered in an on-campus or online format for unparalleled convenience and flexibility. The AA in Human Services, which includes the embedded Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling Certificate, allows students to explore topics like group counseling, conflict resolution, the psychology of addictive behavior, and the effects of drug abuse and substance abuse in families through both classroom theory and practical, field-based experiences. The AA in Human Services with the embedded Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certificate also satisfies the educational requirement for the Licensed Substance Abuse Associate designation in New Mexico.
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell
Roswell, NM
Website
Certificate of Employability in Behavioral Sciences-Alcohol and Drug Abuse Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $1,302
Total tuition comes in at $647 below the state average for similar programs.
- Outstanding, student-centered learning environment features small class sizes and a dedicated faculty
- Exciting services and resources available through the Career Center – assistance with interviewing, resume creation, application assistance, salary negotiation, and more
Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell’s Certificate of Employability in Behavioral Sciences – Alcohol and Drug Abuse Studies falls below the state average among similar programs, making it a standout in value in New Mexico. Expertly designed to meet the specific training requirements for the New Mexico LSAA credential, this program features an exploration of the SUD counseling field with courses like Biopsychosocial Foundation of Alcohol and Drug Abuse; Principles of Prevention and Research in Alcohol and Drug Abuse; Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling: Families and Groups; and Principles of Treatment and Recovery in Alcohol and Drug Abuse.
Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso Branch Community College
Ruidoso, NM
Website
Certificate of Completion in Human Services Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $756
Total tuition comes in at $1,193 below the state average for similar programs.
- Designated Hispanic-Serving Institution
- Boasts an intimate, student-centered learning environment – classes average just 20 students
- Top-notch transfer program – exciting opportunities to transfer to any number of four-year colleges and universities
Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso Branch’s Certificate of Completion in Human Services Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies is priced more than $1,100 below the state average among similar programs, making it a standout in value in New Mexico! But it’s not just value that’s offered here. When earned alongside, or in addition to, an associate degree, this program is expertly designed to meet the education requirements necessary to become a Licensed Substance Abuse Associate in New Mexico. Students of this program explore the history of addiction counseling; the physiological and psychological methods for treating addiction; methods of addiction treatment; and the planning and execution of treatment plans. You’re sure to love earning your substance abuse counseling education at a school that’s known for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and outstanding transfer program!
Utah (public)
University of Utah
College of Social Work
Salt Lake City, UT
Website
Substance Use Disorder Counselor Certificate (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,363
- Also offers: Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor Certificate (for students who have completed or are completing a bachelor’s degree)
- Home to a nationally and globally recognized faculty who engage in a research-to-practice model
- Named the #1 public university in the West by the Wall Street Journal
- Boasts a low, 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio – the lowest among public schools in Utah
The University of Utah’s Substance Use Disorder Counselor Certificate is priced right and designed in a convenient and flexible format that includes your choice of on-campus or online study! This training certificate is expertly designed to provide students with a solid foundation of knowledge in the SUD counseling field, while also preparing them for real-world practice through experiential activities. To qualify for this certificate program, students must have already completed, or are in the process of completing, an associate degree. You’ll be proud to study at a university that’s been ranked among the top schools in the West by the Wall Street Journal!
Utah Valley University
College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Behavioral Science
Orem, UT
Website
Certificate of Proficiency-Substance Use Disorder Counseling (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $4,862
Total tuition comes in at $751 below the state average for similar programs.
- Also offers: Certificate of Proficiency-Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counseling (for students who have completed or are completing a bachelor’s degree)
- Student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Ranked among the top schools in the nation for best return on investment
Utah Valley University’s Certificate of Proficiency in Substance Use Disorder Counseling offers a superb price tag and a flexible, online format that allows you to earn the SUD counseling you need to enter this rewarding field while still maintaining your professional and personal obligations. Students complete this program on a part-time basis, which means they take no more than three classes at a time. This two-semester program includes a 200-hour internship that provides students with an exciting opportunity to begin learning valuable, real-world skills. To qualify for this certificate program, students must have already completed, or are in the process of completing, an associate degree.
Wyoming (public)
Northern Wyoming Community College District
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Sheridan, WY
Website
AA in Human Services-Addictions Practitioner concentration (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,821
Addictions Practitioner Certificate (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $5,474
Total tuition comes in at $277 below the state average for similar programs.
- Home to an award-winning faculty of experienced practitioners who offer a contemporary examination of the SUD counseling field
- Flexible format features your choice of on-campus or online study
- Ranked as the 5th Best Community College in the Nation by WalletHub
- Seamless transfer opportunities available – school has many 2+2 plans in place with universities and colleges
Northern Wyoming Community College District offers two Addictions Practitioner programs for aspiring SUD counselors that are priced with value in mind and designed with flexibility for busy, working professionals. Both the associate degree and certificate program here are delivered in your choice of an on-campus or online format for outstanding convenience. Both programs boast a solid foundation of coursework and hands-on learning experiences to prepare you for success in a wide range of organizations and agencies focused on providing counseling, support, and education for those with substance use disorders. Choose NWCCD for your SUD counseling education and you’ll also be positioned to easily transfer to the University of Wyoming’s BS in Social Work!
Casper College
Casper, WY
Website
AS in Addiction Studies (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,114
Total tuition comes in at $354 below the state average for similar programs.
Addiction Studies Certificate (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $6,027
- Student-centered learning environment boasts a low, 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Many online courses offered for outstanding flexibility and convenience
- Seamless transfer opportunities available
Offering both value and convenience, Casper College’s Addiction Studies programs don’t disappoint! In addition to a value-focused tuition, these programs boast many online courses for outstanding flexibility! The AS in Addiction Studies is designed to prepare newcomers for entry-level jobs in the rewarding field of SUD counseling and for future bachelor’s work study, while the Addiction Studies Certificate allows those currently working in the human services field to update or expand upon their skills or knowledge. It also provides an ideal addition to those with master’s degrees who are preparing to become Licensed Addiction Therapists.