APS.BSADC - Bachelor of Science - Major in Addictions Counseling

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Program Description

The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Addictions Counseling is a 22-month course of study that provides an in-depth education from a Christian perspective for persons who desire to understand and/or serve addicted persons and their families. Most coursework is completed online with onsite practicums offered at mutually agreed-upon sites.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

Explain the biological, psychosocial, and spiritual dimension of addictions.
Describe how God brings about holistic transformation through trained addictions professionals within their therapeutic community/system.
Relate evidence-based addictions counseling techniques to the assessment, treatment planning, and client/system change process.
Evaluate theories and empirical evidence underlying addictions counseling practice.
Discuss the pharmacological properties of major drugs and their impact on the brain and behavior.
Apply principles of ethical practice with diverse populations.
Employ theories and techniques of effective client interaction and group counseling.
Appraise the needs and strengths of the addicted individual within the context of the family system.
Assess personal and professional development needs and manage an approach for life-long learning and growth.

Program Requirements

Admissions Requirements for this Program

Proof of high school graduation or GED certification.
Original transcripts from all previous college or university study at college or university that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Prior completion of at least 60 transferable credit hours is required before the student is eligible to start the major courses.

Additional Requirements for this Program

Practicum Requirements

As part of the Bachelor of Science degree with a major Addictions Counseling program at IWU, each student will be required to complete a practicum experience whereby students will engage in on-site learning via an agency or center focused on the practice of addictions counseling. Sites are secured through a collaborative effort between the Coordinator of Practicums and Field Experiences and each individual student. Student will be required to complete a total of 350 hours of practicum experience over the span of 20 weeks. These hours will coincide with the final four courses of the program (ADC-471, ADC-472, ADC-473 and ADC-474). This averages out to about 17.5 hours each week where students will participate in a practicum experience. This practicum is key to the student’s learning experience as it provides opportunity for students to receive constructive feedback and continual supervision while gaining experience in a professional counseling setting.

Graduation Requirements for this Program

Completion of 120 semester hours.
Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Completion of the required core courses with a GPA of 2.50 or higher.
Completion of 30 hours of general education as specified (CAPS - General Education Requirements).
Completion of a total of 350 supervised hours of practicum field experience.
Payment of all tuition and fees is required to receive a diploma.