2023 Best Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees in Texas

Texas Tech University (TTU) is a large, public institution with one undergraduate degree in the field of substance use counseling.

• The 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences focuses on clinical skill development through counseling theories, leadership, administration, assessment, and treatment. There are two concentrations: (1) Applied Relational Counseling or (2) Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies. Core courses in this major include General Psychology, Theories of Counseling and Recovery, and Interview and Relational Counseling Skills. Graduates may find careers in addiction counseling, family therapy, and human services.

TTU utilizes Blackboard's learning management system to deliver 100% online coursework on flexible schedules. There are peer-reviewed instruction and tutoring sessions available for online students.

Central Texas College (CTC) is a medium-sized, public school with one online associate degree and two online certificates in the field of substance use counseling.

• The Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency requires 60 credits, which can be completed in approximately two years. Students gain communication, interviewing, and intervention skills while learning some of the basic principles of pharmacology, psychology, medical social work, and counseling theories. Classes include Addicted Family Intervention and Dynamics of Group Counseling. Graduates can put 1,000 hours of experience toward becoming a certified counselor in Texas.
• The Certificate of Completion in Chemical Dependency Counseling is a 47-credit program that includes many of the same courses found in the associate degree above. Students learn about pharmacology, health psychology, crisis intervention, and group counseling. A couple of the required courses include Problems of Children and Adolescents as well as Psychology of Personal Adjustment. Graduates can pursue entry-level jobs in hospitals, detoxification clinics, and mental health centers.
• The Certificate of Completion in Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist only requires 36 credits, and students will likely take one year to complete the program online. Students engage in two levels of Substance Abuse Prevention courses, where they'll learn to identify risk factors and understand prevention planning and evaluation methods. The certificate program is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level roles in hospitals, detoxification clinics, and mental health centers.

CTC uses the Blackboard learning management system to host its 100% online programs. Coursework is delivered through synchronous and asynchronous modalities. Online students have access to technical and academic support.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a small, nonprofit, Christian university offering one online addiction counseling program at the associate level.

• The Associate of Science in Addictions Counseling consists of 64 credit hours in general education, behavioral sciences, and biblical studies. Students gain an understanding of prevention, treatment techniques, and ethical competencies. There are courses such as Addictive Behavior and Recovery as well as the Pharmacology of Addiction. Students also receive 300 hours of practical experience to put towards becoming a Texas licensed chemical dependency counselor.

The learning management system SAGU students use is Blackboard, allowing them to engage in flexible online coursework they can complete at their own pace. Enrolled students are supported by 24/7 technical assistance, writing software, and academic planning and study tools.

The University of St. Thomas - TX (UST) is a private, nonprofit, and Roman Catholic university with a medium student population. It offers an online associate degree and a certificate program in substance abuse counseling.

• The 60-credit-hour Associate of Applied Science in Drug and Alcohol Counseling helps provide students with the knowledge and skills to help individuals and families affected by addiction. Some of the program’s courses include Individual Counseling Skills, Group and Family Counseling, and Crisis Intervention. Two practicums are required for graduation. Graduates may pursue careers like substance abuse counselors, care coordinators, and recovery specialists.
• A Certificate in Drug and Alcohol Counseling equals 30 credit hours, and it's designed for students who’ve already completed a degree and are seeking to become licensed chemical dependency counselors. Sample courses include Documentation and Records, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders, and Group and Family Counseling. Prospective careers include chemical dependency counselors, rehabilitation counselors, and recovery coaches.

UST’s learning management system for online asynchronous and synchronous learning is Canvas. Online student resources at UST include career services, academic advising, tutoring, veterans services, counseling, and an online library.