Report an accessibility problem

Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (Substance Abuse and Addictions) ,BS

Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (Substance Abuse and Addictions), BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (Substance Abuse and Addictions)

Addiction, Diversity, Drugs, Mental Health, Therapy, Wellness, clinical, counseling, helping, veteran

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.* In response to 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).

*Schulenberg, J. E., Patrick, M. E., Johnston, L. D., O'Malley, P. M., Bachman, J. G., and Miech, R. A. (2021). Monitoring the Future national survey results on drug use, 1975-2020: Volume II, College students and adults ages 19-60. Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 119 - Finite Mathematics
    or MAT 170 Precalculus
  • Math intensity: Moderateprogram math intensity moderate

Required courses (Major Map)
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.
Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

ASU Local

It is now possible to earn an ASU degree with ASU Local, an integrated college experience in which students take advantage of in-person success coaching and programming experiences on site while completing one of 130+ undergraduate online degree programs, all of which come with online faculty interaction and tutoring support.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

To make a positive impact in the lives of others, students must understand the diverse set of experiences, backgrounds and cultures that shape the people with whom they wish to work. Through Global Education programs, students gain firsthand understanding of a wide range of cultures and communities, and they acquire a unique global perspective, enabling them to impact the world.

Career opportunities

The projected job growth for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors is estimated to increase by 23% between 2023 and 2033. A licensed substance abuse technician is at the entry level of serving clients who struggle with substance use and addictions. The LSAT assists substance abuse counselors in prevention and intervention efforts with individuals, groups and organizations. The LSAT credential prepares students for careers in substance abuse treatment clinics, community centers, social services and education settings under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals.

Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.


Career *Growth *Median salary
18.4%
$49,710
8.6%
$38,520
14.1%
$46,190
17.2%
$43,390
6.6%
$44,990
18.4%
$49,710
10.6%
$51,240
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Professional licensure

ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state. For more information, students should visit the ASU professional licensure webpage.

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

click back to top