Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Learn about online addiction counseling degrees and how they can advance your career in helping those struggling with substance abuse.
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Updated June 15, 2023

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Top Addiction Degrees

If you want to help solve one of our nation's most pressing issues, consider one pursuing one of the Best Bachelor's in Addiction/Substance Abuse.

Addiction and substance abuse problems are increasingly prevalent in the United States and around the world. It's a disease that destroys relationships, careers, finances, communities, and lives. According to the CDC, there were 70,237 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2017, nearly 200 per day.

There's a high demand for trained, compassionate, professionals to help treat this crisis. If you want to be part of the solution, these bachelor's degrees in Addiction/Substance Abuse will give you the tools you need. You'll gain hands-on experience and learn to evaluate clients, design and implement effective treatment plans, and provide counseling to groups and individuals. These programs will prepare you to save lives and make a difference in the world.

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Addiction Counseling Career Trajectory

With a bachelor's degree in Addiction/Substance Abuse, you have several career options. The most popular and in-demand options are working as a substance abuse counselor or as an addiction social worker.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that substance abuse counselors earn a median salary of $48,520. Over the next ten years substance abuse counselors will be in higher and higher demand, as the field is projected to grow at a rate of 22%.

Careers in the addiction field are challenging, meaningful, and rewarding. Already in high demand, the need for substance abuse professionals is only expected to grow in the years to come.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor's Degree in Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling?

In addition to working as a substance abuse counselor or social worker, you may choose to become a detox specialist or a prevention specialist. Other potential careers include drug educator or substance abuse researcher.

Substance abuse professionals work in hospitals, inpatient and outpatient care facilities, employee assistance programs, detoxification programs, recovery programs, community prevention programs, governmental agencies, the criminal justice system, drug courts, and schools.

What are the Requirements for a Bachelor's degree in Addiction Counseling?

To apply to these programs, you'll need a high school diploma or GED. Applications may ask for transcripts, letters of recommendations, personal statements, and SAT or ACT scores.

Like other bachelor's degree programs, the programs on this list require about 120 credit hours for graduation. You may take courses in sociology, psychology, anatomy and physiology, research methods, counseling best practices, prevention and treatment, ethics, and criminal justice. Most addiction/substance abuse programs require a practicum or internship in the field, perhaps both.

Most programs fulfill licensing requirements in their state. However, you'll need to check your state's licensing requirements to ensure that the program you choose will help you meet education and supervised work requirements.

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Best Bachelor's in Addiction Counseling Degrees

With a growing need for substance abuse professionals, there are many addiction and substance abuse programs throughout the nation. But if you're looking for the best of the best, you've come to the right place. We selected these programs based on factors such as school reputation, return on investment, and net tuition cost. In addition, every program on this list is accredited.

College Choice data comes only from reputable sources such as:

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in substance abuse counseling program at University of Cincinnati earns top marks. Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and benefit from comprehensive support services.

Degree-seekers take general education and subject-specific classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Students take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 77%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 113

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,476

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,810

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,981

Graduation Rate: 71%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $39,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,476
Out-of-state
$24,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,790
Out-of-state
$24,532
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
39,263
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion

  • Marion, IN
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The bachelor of science in addiction counseling program at Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion helps degree-seekers reach their goals. This addiction recovery degree builds broad knowledge and skills that prepares students for entry- and mid-level careers. Graduates can also apply to master's programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The bachelor's curriculum includes introductory addiction recovery classes and upper-division courses. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Minors and second majors help students balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, academic advisors meet with students to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.

Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion at a glance:

Location: Marion, Indiana

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 67%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $27,296

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $27,296

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,296
Out-of-state
$27,296
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,440
Out-of-state
$13,440
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,165
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

  • Natchitoches, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in addiction studies program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana is one of 35 total bachelor's programs. With an addiction recovery degree, students can pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. Graduates also meet the requirements for master's and doctoral programs by earning a bachelor's degree.

The curriculum trains learners in foundational addiction recovery knowledge and practices. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Minors and second majors help students balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:

Location: Natchitoches, Louisiana

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 82%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,180

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,968

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,180
Out-of-state
$15,968
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,738
Out-of-state
$16,526
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,900
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

University of South Dakota

  • Vermillion, SD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of South Dakota, a public institution, offers a top-ranking bachelor's in addiction counseling and prevention program. The Vermillion-based school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.

Degree-seekers build comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of addiction recovery, preparing graduates for the job market.

University of South Dakota at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 86%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 63

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,697

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,172

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $4,558

Graduation Rate: 59%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $37,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,697
Out-of-state
$11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,062
Out-of-state
$11,656
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
9,920
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

SUNY College at Brockport

  • Brockport, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

SUNY College at Brockport, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in alcohol and substance abuse studies program. From its campus in Brockport, New York, the school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree after taking addiction recovery and general education courses. STEM, social science, and humanities classes make up the general education curriculum. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced addiction recovery courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.

SUNY College at Brockport at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 55%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 57

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,070

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,980

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,195

Graduation Rate: 64%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $36,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
7,924
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

University of Detroit Mercy

  • Detroit, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in addiction studies program at University of Detroit Mercy, a private institution, enrolls degree-seekers with flexible options. The Michigan-based school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible program options, rigorous academics, and the school's support services.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree after taking addiction recovery and general education courses. Classes in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. Upper-division addiction recovery classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

University of Detroit Mercy at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 77%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 48

Undergrad Tuition In State: $28,840

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,840

Graduation Rate: 67%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $47,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,840
Out-of-state
$28,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,268
Out-of-state
$29,268
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
5,080
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Alvernia University

  • Reading, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Alvernia University, a private institution in Reading, Pennsylvania, offers a top-ranking bachelor's in addictions and mental health treatment program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

The curriculum includes addiction recovery and general education courses. The general education curriculum includes classes in the humanities, mathematics, and communication. Enrollees gain a theoretical and practical understanding of addiction recovery, preparing them for the workforce.

Alvernia University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 64%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 46

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition In State: $35,350

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $35,350

Graduation Rate: 63%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,350
Out-of-state
$35,350
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,670
Out-of-state
$14,670
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
2,731
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

University of St. Francis

  • Joliet, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in substance abuse counseling program, one of 48 bachelor's programs at the University of St. Francis, offers a flexible route to a college degree. Students enter the workforce prepared for diverse careers with their addiction recovery degree. Bachelor's degree-holders can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in addiction recovery. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's program. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with students to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

University of St. Francis at a Glance:

Location: Joliet, Illinois

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 46%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Undergrad Tuition In State: $34,000

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $34,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,000
Out-of-state
$34,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,464
Out-of-state
$13,464
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
3,776
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Keene State College

  • Keene, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in public health program at Keene State College offers an addiction minor. The program prioritizes accessibility in its course options. Graduates meet the requirements for master's programs after completing a bachelor's degree.

The curriculum covers core and advanced topics in addiction recovery. Undergraduates also strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills during general education classes. Students can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

Student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, career counselors connect enrollees with job fairs and internship opportunities.

Keene State College at a Glance:

Location: Keene, New Hampshire

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 88%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,754

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,942

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,754
Out-of-state
$20,942
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,720
Out-of-state
$10,620
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
3,502
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
3% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Ohio Christian University

  • Circleville, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Ohio Christian University enrolls learners in 22 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in substance abuse counseling. The addiction recovery degree leads to career opportunities in many different industries. Some bachelor's degree-holders continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.

The curriculum covers the major principles and methods in addiction recovery. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Students can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates integrate into the larger campus community. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with enrollees to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Ohio Christian University at a Glance:

Location: Circleville, Ohio

Type of School: Private

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,533

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,533

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,533
Out-of-state
$13,533
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,765
Out-of-state
$10,765
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,843
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Minnesota State University-Mankato

  • Mankato, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in alcohol and drug studies program at Minnesota State University-Mankato, a public institution, prioritizes flexibility. Degree-seekers choose from in-person classes offered on the Mankato campus and online classes. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

Majors take general education courses and subject-specific classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Students take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Graduates prepare for the workforce or further education by taking upper-division addiction recovery classes.

Minnesota State University-Mankato at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 63%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 112

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,394

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,686

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,371

Graduation Rate: 50%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,694
Out-of-state
$7,694
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
14,325
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Rhode Island College

  • Providence, RI
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The bachelor's in chemical dependency/addiction studies program at Rhode Island College, which offers 88 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. The addiction recovery degree prepares students for entry-level roles in many fields. Bachelor's degree-holders can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum covers foundational concepts and methods in addiction recovery. Undergraduates also gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students can explore other academic and professional interests by declaring a minor or a second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, financial aid counselors work with students to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Rhode Island College at a Glance:

Location: Providence, Rhode Island

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 78%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,218

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $21,683

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,218
Out-of-state
$21,683
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,722
Out-of-state
$15,048
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
7,523
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
4% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#13 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

University of Central Arkansas

  • Conway, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Conway-based University of Central Arkansas, a public institution, offers a top-ranking addiction recovery program. Students pursuing the bachelor of science in addiction studies - treatment path degree can take online and in-person classes. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

Majors take subject-specific and general education courses to complete their degree. Students gain an understanding of diverse academic fields through the general education curriculum. Learners prepare for the workforce or further education by taking advanced addiction recovery courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

University of Central Arkansas at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 90%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 72

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,810

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,620

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,161

Graduation Rate: 43%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $32,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,810
Out-of-state
$13,620
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,018
Out-of-state
$10,037
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
10,869
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

St. Cloud State University

  • Saint Cloud, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution in Minnesota, St. Cloud State University offers a top-ranked bachelor's program in addiction recovery. The school offers on-campus and online courses. Undergraduates participate in rigorous courses and benefit from comprehensive support services when pursuing their bachelor's in addiction counseling.

Majors take subject-specific courses and general education classes to earn a bachelor's degree. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. The addiction recovery curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

Saint Cloud State University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 90%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 108

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,394

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,686

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $5,798

Graduation Rate: 48%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,394
Out-of-state
$15,686
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,460
Out-of-state
$11,334
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
13,049
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Online Addiction & Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

Minot State University

  • Minot, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Minot State University, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in addiction studies program. Located in Minot, North Dakota, the school serves students of all backgrounds through campus and online courses. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

The curriculum includes addiction recovery and general education courses. STEM, social science, and humanities classes make up the general education curriculum. Addiction studies major courses introduce major theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing program graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.

Minot State University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 67%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 70

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,088

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,088

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $4,246

Graduation Rate: 45%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $38,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,088
Out-of-state
$6,088
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,049
Out-of-state
$8,049
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,125
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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