What You Should Know About This Degree
The primary difference between the degrees on this list is the length and level of study. High school graduates can choose between a two-year associate degree or undertake a four-year bachelor’s program. Master’s programs are suitable for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in psychology or another related field.
When you’re choosing between online substance abuse counseling programs, check that the institution is accredited regionally or nationally for quality assurance.
Job prospects for graduates in this field are excellent. As more people seek substance abuse and mental health support, opportunities for specialist counselors are expected to increase by around 25% by 2028.
Although qualification requirements for substance abuse counseling roles vary across employers, most ask for a bachelor’s degree at minimum. Completing a master’s degree can help you access the highest-paying roles.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online substance abuse counseling programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Associate and bachelor’s courses generally require a high school diploma, usually with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Institutions may also ask for minimum SAT, ACT, or CLT scores. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in psychology or another relevant subject to meet the admissions requirements for a master’s program.
- What licensing or certifications are required? There isn’t a standard nationwide certification for substance abuse counselors, and required qualifications vary by area and employer. Generally, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree, but many employers strongly prefer candidates with a master’s.
While you narrow down your options, keep track of the application deadlines for each course and find out what admissions documentation you need to provide. You can often find this information listed on each institution’s website, and the admissions department can also help.
Determining how to finance your program is also important. Don’t forget to submit your financial aid application before the deadline and explore alternative funding sources like scholarships.