Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorders

Program Description

A completely online program, the Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorders (GCSUD) will offer current professionals the flexibility to obtain a recognized credential that can lead to career advancement in the field of substance use disorder treatment. UMA has received approval as a NAADAC Approved Educational Provider for the Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorders program. Students who successfully complete this certificate can sit for the national Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) exam to pursue licensing as a substance use treatment professional and can apply for the Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) certification. The CCS is a national certification allowing individuals to seek employment in all 50 states and is required to supervise Registered Alcohol and Drug Counselors (RADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC), and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADC).

Admissions Requirements:

Students can apply to enter the Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorders for fall semester or spring semester. To be considered for a fall admission, all applicants must submit the following items no later than July 31^st. For consideration for a spring semester start please sumit your application materials by January 2nd. Applications received after these deadlines will be reviewed on a space-available basis.

• Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
• UMA Graduate Online Application
• Resume - applicant must have 1 year of professional experience
• Essay that includes a short autobiography and the applicant’s reason(s) for pursuing graduate study in substance use disorders.  This essay should be 2-4 pages in length.
• Three Letters of Recommendation attesting to the applicant’s ability to succeed in graduate school and a career in substance use disorder treatment. Only professional letters of recommendation will be accepted. Letters from professors, professionals in the field of mental health and human services, and/or supervisors from employment/field placement settings are recommended. Letters from family members and friends will not be accepted.
• Copies of current active professional licenses and certificates (if applicable)

Applicants who are admitted and enroll in the Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorders Program will be invited to meet with the program’s Graduate Coordinator to discuss the program expectations, curriculum, and available support. This meeting could be conducted in person or virtually.

UMA Certificate Requirements:

• Minimum Cumulative GPA: 3.00
• 9 Credit Hours of Residency

Certificate Requirements (18 Credit Hours):

• HUS 501 - History, Assessment and Treatment of Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders 3 CR
• HUS 502 - Psychopharmacology and Physiology related to Substance Use Disorders and Integrated Co-occurring Treatment 3 CR
• HUS 503 - Substance Use Disorder Counseling I 3 CR
• HUS 504 - Substance Use Disorders and Interpersonal Relationships 3 CR
• HUS 505 - Substance Use Disorder Counseling II 3 CR
• HUS 506 - Professional Development: Supervision and Administration 3 CR