Addiction Studies
- The Center for Addiction Studies offers four programs:
- a counselor training program in drugs, alcohol, and addictive behavior counseling (subject to ADAD CAC certification requirements)
- a concentration in drug, alcohol and addictive behaviors
- a counselor training program in domestic violence counseling (fulfilling state certification requirements) and
- a concentration in domestic violence counseling.
There is a high correlation between trauma and addiction; the courses required for domestic violence certification and those of addiction counselor certification overlap. Students can easily complete the required courses in each area. Metro State has an agreement with the Colorado Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division to allow graduates from the addictions program obtain Level II certification with 1000 additional hours of experience (instead of the usual 2000) if they complete all courses required for Level III certification, and pass the national examination. The Addiction concentration classes prepare students for passing the national examination.
Degree Program
The department offers the Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services with an area of concentation in Drug and Alcohol Counseling. In addition to the core curriculum, Drug and Alcohol concentration students take the following courses:
HSP 2060-8 Practicum II
HSP 3400-3 Pharmacology of Drugs/Alcohol
HSP 3430-3 Addictive Behaviors
HSP 3470-4 Counseling the Substance Abuser
HSP 3580-1 Resistive Client OR HSP3560-1-Motivational Interviewing
plus 12 hours of Human Services classes and 6 hours of general electives.
Addictions concentration students should not take HSP 1470, Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll.
Students completing the Addiction Studies emphasis will be eligible to apply for CAC I certification, and will have completed much of the coursework required for CAC II.