Degree and Certificate Options
Addiction Counselor, A.S.
Transfer to pursue a degree at a 4-year college.
Purpose
2 Years
Estimated Program Length
100%
Online
Addiction Counselor Certificates
Career Paths
The associate of science is primarily a transfer degree program. It prepares students for continuing their education in a behavioral health field such as social work, psychology, addiction counseling, etc. For those looking to become certified as an addiction counselor in a state other than Kansas, this program may meet all the requirements the state regulator needs or move them along in the process and requirements, depending on the specific state.
For those in Kansas, successfully completing the program would set students up to transfer to a four-year school for a bachelor’s degree. They could also qualify for a temporary student license while they complete the required bachelor’s degree for full licensure. Prospective students should review regulations through the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board for details related to these requirements. If prospective students are interested in a different state, they should also seek information from the appropriate regulating body.
An associate degree may also assist students in pursuing employment in a substance use disorder or mental health treatment facility as a technician, monitor, support staff member, case manager, etc.
For those pursuing a certificate, preparation is more directly focused on entrance into the workforce. Both certificates require students to enter the program with a degree already conferred. The certificates are meant to assist students with attaining the specific courses needed for the regulatory body to become Licensed Addiction Counselors (LAC) at the bachelor’s level in Kansas. Certificate A is specifically designed for those holding the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) license and a Bachelor's of Social Work (BSW) degree. The regulations include fewer required courses for someone possessing a BSW degree already. Certificate B is for all other bachelor’s degree holders.
If an individual is pursuing qualifications in a jurisdiction other than Kansas, Certificate B may be appropriate. However, they will still need to confirm this with the stated jurisdiction. Individual advising with the program coordinator is required to determine how well the program meets their career preparation needs.
For students who intend to join the workforce immediately, this program opens career paths such as addiction counselor, case manager, certified alcohol and drug counselor, chemical dependency counselor, chemical dependency professional, drug and alcohol treatment specialist, prevention specialist and substance abuse counselor.
Points of Pride
There are many reasons to attend KCKCC’s program in addiction counseling. The program is one of a kind in the state of Kansas as currently no other community college offers this specialized education. The costs associated are less than those associated with obtaining all the course work through a four-year college/university. All the instructors in the program are active clinicians in their respective communities so real-world examples and understanding are a core part of the teaching philosophy. Courses are also accessible through online and hybrid programming. The program has established relationships with local and regional treatment facilities for the face-to-face field experiences required.
Furthermore, the addiction counseling program is currently recognized as an approved educational provider with the National Association of Addiction Professionals (NAADAC).
Student Perspective
“The program taught me a lot about diversity. In particular, the practicum experience opened my mind to others and how cultural differences can make a big difference.”
*Potential salaries use third-party national and regional aggregated data, some of which may be estimates. Results may not reflect local or timely trends. Some careers listed may require additional education or degrees beyond those offered at KCKCC. Completing a program, degree, or certificate does not guarantee employment or a specific salary.