Due to the newly approved Addictions Counseling A.A.S. degree, the Addictions Counseling AOC within the A.A. degree in Social Sciences will be discontinued. No new students will be admitted to the AOC program. Students will now select the A.A.S. degree when choosing a major for 2019-2020.
The Addictions Counseling Area of Concentration within the A.A. in Social Sciences program prepares students who are seeking specific knowledge in substance abuse counseling to work with clients in a broad range of treatment settings. Basic counseling and interviewing skills, assessment and diagnosis of substance use and other mental disorders, treatment delivery, ethical practice, and field experience are emphasized.
The Addictions Counseling program requires two 3-credit internship courses (a total of 270 clock hours). It is recommended students take the internship courses over two semesters. Students must contact the Human Services program manager to begin the internship application process
Students who are interested in certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor with the State of Maryland should consult the Board of Professional Counselors website for specifics on the certification process.
See Maryland licensure requirements.
A drug screening and/or criminal background check is often required to obtain and maintain employment in an addictions counseling career. Individuals whose criminal histories may interfere with their ability to secure employment should discuss questions with addictions counseling faculty.