In 2020, 45% of young adults, ages 19 to 30, reported using an illicit drug in the past year --- an eight-point increase since 2015 (Schulenberg et al., 2021). In response to the increasing demand, this concentration prepares students for the licensed substance abuse technician credential, to assist individuals who struggle with addictions.

Program Description

Counseling and applied psychological science is a specialty promoting psychological well-being.

The substance abuse and addictions concentration of the BS program in counseling and applied psychological science provides coursework in counseling skills and techniques as they relate to substance abuse and addictions. Students acquire the necessary skills in screening, assessing, diagnosing and planning treatment of patients afflicted with substance abuse, addictions and related disorders.

While this program does not make students license-eligible counselors, the coursework meets the requirements for the Licensed Substance Abuse Technician credential through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (https://www.azbbhe.us/node/553).

Concurrent Program Options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.