Addiction Studies

Message from the Chair

Alvernia was one of the first colleges to respond to need for  professional preparation and development in the prevention and treatment of addiction. News coverage gives us daily evidence that the problem relating to Substance Abuse and Addiction continues to grow. Personal stories we hear account for still another measure of how this problem and the lives it destroys, can impact those close to us. Coupling theoretical approaches with practical application has allowed our graduates to be highly sought after and valued by employers. 

Our Mission

In recognizing the physical, emotional, and spiritual destruction that occurs with people suffering from addiction, it is the mission of the addiction studies program to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and proficiencies needed to enter the professions related to the prevention, intervention, and treatment of addiction.

Overview

A degree in Addiction Studies provides theoretical and practical training for professional roles in prevention and treatment settings. In addition, and perhaps more importantly, it is highly valued by related fields such as criminal justice, mental health, and children/youth agencies. Because of its wide application, the degree is designed to expand employment and placement opportunities for its majors upon graduation.

The program’s commitment to excellence is exemplified through its recruitment and faculty selection. The Addictions faculty includes national educators and published professionals, as well as top-level administrators who are actively involved with changes occurring in healthcare. This highly trained faculty provides an educationally rich and extremely interesting classroom experience.

Students are able to complement their classroom education with two field placements. This practicum field experience gives the Addictions major valuable exposure to work environments prior to graduation.

As the need to address problems related to addiction increases, the demand for highly qualified degreed individuals will continue to grow stronger.

All addictions courses are approved by the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB).