The Drug & Alcohol Certificate prepares students for entry-level positions in substance use treatment, recovery and community-based support settings using a social work and public health framework. Coursework emphasizes contemporary approaches to addiction and recovery, including harm reduction, trauma-informed practice, cultural responsiveness and ethical decision-making.
Students develop foundational skills in client engagement, interviewing, documentation and service coordination, with required instruction in artificial intelligence and digital tools commonly used in treatment and recovery settings. Practical experience is gained through supervised field placement, allowing students to apply theory and skills in real-world contexts.
This certificate is designed as a stackable credential within Social Work programs and may also be completed independently by students seeking workforce preparation in substance use and addiction services or additional subject-matter expertise prior to pursuing advanced study.
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate will:
- Explain major theories of addiction and recovery using social work, public health and harm-reduction frameworks.
- Apply ethical principles and culturally responsive practices when working with individuals and families affected by substance use.
- Demonstrate introductory interviewing, client engagement and case management skills appropriate for substance use treatment and recovery settings.
- Utilize documentation practices and ethical use of digital tools, including technology-supported communication and record-keeping in substance use service environments.
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