Alvernia College - Career Services

What can I do with a major in Addiction Studies ?

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.

Alvernia's Addiction Studies Degree was one of the first of its kind in the United States. Students who pursue this major find the subject area extremely relevant, challenging, and rewarding in their quest to understand one of society's major problems.

Skills

Cultural sensitivity
Empathy
Inquisitive mind
Proficient interpersonal communicator
Intellectual
High reading comprehension
Ability to observe and organize
Ability to conduct research and analyze and explain the results
Analytical mind
Understanding of human development and behaviors
Ability to analyze problems and make recommendations

Values

Helpfulness
Empathy
Tact
Integrity
Honesty
Patience
Warm, approachable, and trustworthy nature
Commitment to lifelong learning
Respect for differences
Compassionate
Openness
Resourcefulness

Leisure Activities

Functioning as a peer counselor
Helping with senior citizens
Volunteering as a hotline counselor
Volunteering for a crisis center
Reading psychological journals or articles

Strategies

Obtain internship in licensed drug and alcohol prevention or treatment program
Minor in related academic area such as Criminal Justice or Psychology
Attend 12 Step meetings
Obtain internship in mental health facility
Gain volunteer experience at hotline or crisis center
Learn another language
Consider earning a graduate degree in counseling or other psychological field
Become familiar with governmental hiring processes
Get experience in advocacy
Enhance knowledge of community problems
Gain leadership experience as a resident hall advisor, orientation aide, Admissions Office tour guide, or in Student Activities Office
Volunteer as a tutor