Best Online Addiction Counseling Degrees of 2024
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An online bachelor’s in addiction counseling teaches how to assess addictive behaviors and create treatment plans. Students also learn how to provide individual and group counseling and connect clients with helpful community resources.
Graduates can work in roles such as substance use counselors. This guide ranks the top online bachelor’s in addiction and recovery programs to help students find the right one for their needs.
Best Online Addiction Counseling Degrees
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Cost per Semester:
In-State | $6,785
Out-of-State | $6,965
Credits to Graduate: 120
Designed for full- or part-time students, the University of Cincinnati's bachelor of science in substance use counseling prepares graduates for chemical dependency licensure in Ohio. The degree fulfills the academic requirements for licensure in many other states.
The fully online research-oriented program includes developmental and systems perspectives on drug and alcohol use impacting children, adolescents, and families. It emphasizes fundamental skills for individual and group counseling and advanced cultural competencies for providing services to diverse client populations.
- In-State$10,099
- Out-of-state$25,433
- In-State$13,224
- Out-of-state$24,966
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled40,329
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $371
Out-of-State | $371
Credits to Graduate: 180
Purdue University-Global's bachelor of science program allows distance learners to earn a respected degree from the prestigious Purdue University system. Graduates meet the requirements for the National Certified Addiction Counselor Level I and II certification exams and the National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist certification exam.
Aimed at working adults, the fully online curriculum features an optional concentration in business foundations. Students who enter with transfer or prior experience credits can finish the program in just over two years.
- In-State$10,080
- Out-of-state$13,356
- In-State$8,730
- Out-of-state$9,700
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled43,458
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Washington University
- Cheney, WA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $243
Out-of-State | $828
Credits to Graduate: 180
The bachelor of arts in addiction studies at Eastern Washington University offers a fully online program approved by NAADAC, the association for addiction professionals. The degree prepares graduates to become certified substance use counselors in Washington. Once students complete all required courses for state certification, they become eligible to take the NAADAC national certification addiction counselor exam.
In addition to a senior capstone focusing on licensure preparation, the curriculum offers an optional practicum for students interested in working in substance use disorder treatment agencies.
- In-State$6,896
- Out-of-state$24,722
- In-State$12,353
- Out-of-state$27,939
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled10,892
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Clarks Summit University
- Clarks Summit, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditations: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Association for Biblical Higher Education
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $460
Out-of-State | $460
Credits to Graduate: 121
The bachelor of science in addictions counseling at Clarks Summit University presents the field of counseling as both a profession and a ministry. This four-year degree includes two majors: a biblical studies major and a professional major, plus a core of general studies and ministry courses.
The curriculum covers philosophical foundations and practical methodologies of biblical counseling. It requires 30 credits in addictions counseling and 21 credits in free electives. This degree prepares graduates for entry-level counseling positions.
- In-State$27,200
- Out-of-state$27,200
- In-State$7,020
- Out-of-state$7,020
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled696
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Dakota
- Vermillion, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $355
Out-of-State | $355
Credits to Graduate: 120
As the state's only program of its kind, the University of South Dakota's online bachelor of science in addictions counseling prepares graduates for addiction credentialing in South Dakota. Students intending to practice outside South Dakota should consult their state licensure or certification board.
This fully online bachelor's in addiction recovery program allows distance learners to specialize in prevention or treatment. The curriculum comprises 30 credits in core foundations, six credits in the chosen specialization, and nine elective courses.
- In-State$7,773
- Out-of-state$11,283
- In-State$6,123
- Out-of-state$11,773
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled9,464
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Crown College
- Saint Bonifacius, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $455
Out-of-State | $455
Credits to Graduate: 125
A leader in online Christian education, Crown College offers a bachelor of science in alcohol and drug counseling that pairs a biblical perspective with preparation for licensure. All distance learners must fulfill general education and Christian studies core courses, 45 credits in the major and 32 electives. Major coursework covers theory and methods, assessment and treatment, and case management.
Qualified students in the alcohol and drug counseling degree may apply for an accelerated program to earn their master of arts in counseling in less than three years.
- In-State$27,270
- Out-of-state$27,270
- In-State$10,350
- Out-of-state$10,350
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled1,476
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment71%
- AccreditationYes
Ottawa University-Online
- Ottawa, KS
- 4 year
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $419
Out-of-State | $419
Credits to Graduate: 120
Ottawa University's bachelor of science in addiction counseling prepares graduates for various counseling careers. The program provides the foundation for graduate work in fields, such as counseling, clinical psychology, social work, law enforcement, and human services. This fully online program delivers courses in accelerated eight-week terms.
Coursework explores key areas in the field, including alcohol and substance use disorders, harm reduction, co-occurring disorders, and dual diagnosis. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in working with diverse client populations.
- In-State$11,976
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$11,253
- Out-of-state$11,253
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled218
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Ottawa University-Kansas City
- Overland Park, KS
- 4 year
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $419
Out-of-State | $419
Credits to Graduate: 120
Rooted in a longstanding commitment to adult education, the bachelor of science in addictions counseling at Ottawa University-Kansas City offers a flexible plan of study that delivers online courses in accelerated eight-week terms. Students complete courses at their own pace, taking one or more courses each term. They may even enroll in an online course simultaneously with face-to-face classes.
The 39-credit major requires students to complete 300 hours of practicum experience in clinical addiction counseling under the supervision of a licensed counselor.
- In-State$12,229
- Out-of-state$12,229
- In-State$10,328
- Out-of-state$10,328
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled551
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
- Marion, IN
- 4 year
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $398
Out-of-State | $398
Credits to Graduate: 120
Indiana Wesleyan University's bachelor of science in addiction counseling integrates a Christian-based worldview with evidence-based practice that prepares graduates to work in various settings. The degree provides a foundation for graduate study in several counseling fields.
The curriculum requires 30 credits in liberal arts, including six credits in biblical studies. Learners complete 48 credits in addictions counseling coursework. Students proceed through the synchronously delivered courses sequentially, taking one course at a time. The degree requires 350 supervised hours of onsite practicum experience.
- In-State$8,453
- Out-of-state$8,453
- In-State$9,715
- Out-of-state$9,715
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled10,008
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $375
Out-of-State | $375
Credits to Graduate: 120
The online bachelor of science program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana combines introductory psychology coursework with addiction studies classes, preparing learners to work in human resources, healthcare, and communication. The degree provides students with the academic requirements for certification as a substance use counselor and prevention specialist in Louisiana.
The curriculum comprises core liberal arts and science foundations, 27 semester hours of psychology classes, and 33 semester hours in counseling and addiction-related coursework.
Classes include screening and assessment, case management, and special populations.
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$15,968
- In-State$5,738
- Out-of-state$16,526
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled10,735
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment88%
- AccreditationYes
What is an addiction and recovery counselor?
Substance use counselors provide safe spaces for clients to work through addiction challenges. These professionals typically have a caring, compassionate nature and a thorough understanding of how to treat substance use disorders effectively. They may:
- Assess new clients’ health, addictive behavior, and readiness for treatment
- Develop treatment plans and goals with clients and their families
- Offer counseling services to help clients cope with stress, rebuild relationships, and modify behaviors to help them recover
- Connect clients with relevant resources such as job placement services
Substance use counselors can work in many settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, hospitals, other healthcare providers’ offices, and government agencies.
They typically work with individuals across the lifespan. Yet, some professionals may specialize in a particular age group, such as young adults.
Choosing an Online Addiction Counseling Bachelor’s Program
When researching prospective online substance use counseling degrees, students should consider several factors: accreditation, curriculum, cost, length, and on-campus requirements.
Accreditation
You must graduate from an accredited program to apply for state licensure or professional certifications. The National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC) is the primary accreditation organization for bachelor’s programs in addiction and recovery. NASAC accreditation demonstrates that your program meets academic and industry standards.
Admission Requirements
Because admission requirements for bachelor’s programs in addiction and recovery vary, check your eligibility with each program before you apply. Typical entrance requirements for most addiction counseling programs include the following:
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 or 3.0
- Official transcripts
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- SAT or ACT scores (optional for some programs)
- Application fees
Cost
| Institution Type | Average Tuition and Required Fees | Average Tuition, Fees, and Room and Board |
|---|---|---|
| Public | $9,750 | $22,389 |
| Private For-Profit | $15,868 | $27,767 |
| Private Nonprofit | $38,421 | $52,848 |
| All Institutions | $17,709 | $30,884 |
The cost of your degree depends on whether you enroll in a public or private school, attend full- or part-time, or choose a fully online or hybrid program. Public schools typically charge much less than private institutions. However, public schools typically charge out-of-state students higher rates than in-state students.
Consider other expenses besides tuition and fees, such as books and technological needs, or any expected loss of income while taking courses versus salary prospects once you graduate.
Curriculum and Internship Requirements
Online addiction counseling degrees typically require 120 credits. The curriculum includes core liberal arts and science courses, foundations in counseling and addiction, and electives. Counseling and addiction coursework often focuses on:
- The psychology of addiction
- Individual and group counseling
- Case management, screening, and treatment planning
- Psychopharmacology in the treatment of substance use disorders
- Cultural competence in working with diverse populations
Almost all programs include internship requirements to provide aspiring addiction counselors with supervised practicum experiences in agencies, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics.
Time Commitment and Format
An online bachelor’s in addiction and recovery may take four years of full-time study, depending on the program requirements and your situation. Attending part-time or entering a program with transfer credits impacts how long it takes to finish your degree.
Most fully online programs use asynchronous course delivery formats that allow you to view lectures and complete assignments when convenient throughout the week. However, some programs follow a synchronous format or a hybrid model requiring some on-campus sessions.
Addiction Counseling Careers
Graduates with an online bachelor’s in addiction counseling can pursue roles like social worker and substance use counselor. Some careers in addiction counseling may require additional education or certification. All salary and job outlook data is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2023.
Social Workers
Social workers help vulnerable individuals and groups deal with life challenges. While social workers with a bachelor’s degree only offer nonclinical services, those with master’s degrees and a clinical social work license can work independently in clinical settings such as hospitals, community agencies, and psychiatric centers. An undergraduate addiction counseling degree focusing on assessment, treatment, and prevention provides a strong foundation for aspiring social workers who want to provide clinical services.
Job Outlook: 7%
Annual Salary Range
$38,400
Bottom 10% Lowest-Paid Annual Salary
$58,380
Median Annual Salary
$94,910
Top 10% Highest-Paid Annual Salary
Substance Use Counselors
Substance use counselors offer services and support to individuals with substance addictions, working in public and private settings, including government agencies, hospitals, and mental health clinics.
They assess clients, develop treatment plans and prevention strategies, and connect clients with resources like rehabilitation options and job placement. Depending on state licensure requirements, these professionals usually enter the field after earning a bachelor’s in counseling, addiction and recovery, or a related field.
Job Outlook: 18%
Annual Salary Range
$36,700
Bottom 10% Lowest-Paid Annual Salary
$53,710
Median Annual Salary
$89,920
Top 10% Highest-Paid Annual Salary
Correctional Treatment Specialists
Correctional treatment specialists counsel incarcerated people or on probation or parole. They coordinate rehabilitation plans and connect clients with counseling services, healthcare, and job training.
Because correctional treatment specialists often work with offenders who have alcohol or drug dependencies, a bachelor’s in addiction counseling can provide useful skills in multicultural counseling practices, assessment, and treatment.
Job Outlook: 3%
Annual Salary Range
$41,700
Bottom 10% Lowest-Paid Annual Salary
$61,800
Median Annual Salary
$105,220
Top 10% Highest-Paid Annual Salary
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Addiction Counseling Degrees
Deciding if this degree is worth the investment depends on several factors, including how it impacts your responsibilities and whether anticipated future earnings and professional opportunities outweigh the cost.
Yet, earning a bachelor’s in addiction and recovery can help you make a significant difference in people’s lives while providing the skills needed to enter various counseling careers. A bachelor’s degree also provides the necessary credentials for state licensure as a substance use counselor in several states and a foundation for graduate work.
In addition to the skills gained through academic training, you need to develop certain “soft skills” that facilitate your ability to interact effectively with others, manage time, and solve problems.
An effective addiction counselor must have strong communication skills and empathy to connect with clients during their most difficult challenges. Whatever situations you encounter, you must refrain from judging your clients while setting boundaries to protect your well-being and prevent burnout.
The first step to becoming an addiction counselor is learning your state’s requirements. Most states require you to earn a bachelor’s degree, which can take 2-4 years. In some jurisdictions, bachelor’s degree holders qualify for licensure, but other states only require an associate degree. However, many states require a master’s degree and a specific number of supervised clinical hours for licensure, which can take an additional two years or more.
Once you earn your license and gain supervised experience, you can boost your career prospects by becoming a national certified addiction counselor or completing other certifications.
Licensure requirements differ by state, but states generally require a bachelor’s or a master’s degree to become an addiction counselor. Most states require a license and a master’s to work with clients independently.
You must hold a master’s degree to pass the National Counselor Exam, which is required for licensure in most states. Optional certifications include national certified addiction counselor or alcohol and drug counselor. Requirements for testing and application fees vary by type of credential.
Substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earn a median annual salary of $53,380. In 2023, the lowest-paid counselors earned less than $36,700, while the top 10% earned more than $94,910.
Your salary prospects depend on many variables, including your highest degree earned, work experience, credentials, and type of employer. For example, counselors in hospital settings earn a median of $54,740, the highest median salary for substance use counselors across settings.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by TheBestSchools. Page last reviewed on January 29, 2024.
