Family & Human Services - Addiction Counseling

Explore a dynamic and flexible learning experience that builds to a rewarding career as an addiction counselor. Substance use issues are not slowing down. We need people with the ability to find solutions, empathy for others, passion for advocacy and a strong desire to help take on this challenge.

Addiction counselors are licensed professionals who help people overcome substance abuse through evidence-based interventions, practices and assessments. You may work in a clinic, halfway house, hospital, prison, residential treatment facility or outpatient rehabilitation center. The hard work of an addiction counselor is energized by witnessing someone find their unique pathway to healing and recovery. Be part of a helping field that fosters hope for the future.

Career Forecast Bright OutlookAverage Salary $47,660on campusonlinehybrid

Why Choose Washburn?

Students who graduate from our program are career-ready and prepared to earn a marketable, in-demand credential as a licensed, helping professional. Not only do our courses equip you with a wide range of skills and knowledge, our program is customizable to your needs. You may complete your degree completely online or create a mix of online and on campus.  Full-time and part-time options are available as well as a fast-track schedule that can put you in the field quickly. We also offer open enrollment which means you can begin your coursework immediately. Other program benefits include:

  • Approved by NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals
  • Approved by Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board or KSBSRB
  • Washburn prepares Kansas students to become Licensed Addiction Counselors (LAC) and KDADS Person-Centered Case Managers (PCCM).
  • Gain real-world experience with two, 200-hour internships at a substance use treatment agency of interest. You will have an opportunity to pursue special interests such as trauma, aging, advocacy and non-profit management.
  • Continue your education by pursuing a Master of Arts in Family & Human Services at Washburn or other graduate programs in related fields.

Our program provides a foundation of evidence-based practices, enhanced by a special focus on critical challenges in the field. All of us - students, professors, clients and communities - benefit from a broad and inclusive perspective. Washburn welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.

 

Minors & Related Programs

Students can use their elective options to earn a certificate or minor in several areas while working on their bachelor's degree.

Learning Pathway

Apply now to Washburn University and begin your journey toward a a rewarding career in addiction counseling.

All students in this program gain real-world experience by completing two 200-hour internships at a substance use treatment agency of interest. Information on prerequisite coursework and skill development can be found in the Family and Human Services Internship Manual.

Earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in Family and Human Services - Addiction Counseling at Washburn University. You will be prepared to enter the workforce and/or embark on graduate studies.

Graduates of our program are eligible to apply for Kansas licensure in Addiction Counseling and certification in Person-Centered Case Management (PCCM) through the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services.

Pursue the Master's degree in Addiction Counseling at Washburn University. Current bachelor's degree students also can inquire about early entry to this graduate program.

Jobs & Opportunities

CAREER FORECAST: bright outlook
Employment of mental health and substance abuse counselors is projected to grow 25 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment will grow as more people seek treatment for mental illness and substance abuse. In addition, drug offenders are increasingly being sent to treatment programs, which are staffed by these counselors, rather than being sent to jail.

Experienced Salary

$78,700

Desired Qualities

solution finder

empathetic

advocate

strong communicator

collaborative

nonjudgmental

Projected Job Growth

+25%

(2019-2029)

Program Cost

Washburn offers a competitive tuition rate. Both in-state and out-of-state students (Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas) pay the same rate. Competitive scholarship opportunities are available to students through the School of Applied Studies.

Apply Now

Apply now and begin your educational journey toward becoming an addiction counselor.
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Academic Catalog

WU Academic Catalog offers a complete description of individual courses associated with this bachelor's degree.
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Declare Program

Complete this application form to declare Human Services as your major or minor.
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GET IN TOUCH WITH Family & Human Services

Family & Human Services
Benton Hall, Room 311
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621

Phone & Email
Ph: 785.670.2116
human-services@washburn.edu

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