Addiction Studies is an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding and treating substance use disorders through research and evidence-based practice. Students gain skills in assessment, motivational interviewing, relapse prevention, and harm reduction, while exploring topics like the neurobiology of addiction, co-occurring disorders, and recovery models. Graduates are prepared for careers in clinical care, community outreach, and policy, serving as counselors, prevention coordinators, and recovery specialists.
Certificate and Degree Pathways
Our certificate and degree pathways are carefully designed to prepare students for employment in various service sectors related to addiction studies. Students can complete a certificate of achievement or pursue an AA in Addiction. These can be completed in less than 2 years or at a slower pace to accommodate your work or other life obligations. Courses are available in various formats, in person, online, and hybrid. Day and evening courses are also offered. Our dedicated advisors work with you to create personalized plans tailored to your professional goals.
Fieldwork Preparation
Our program is committed to providing our students with practical, hands-on experience through fieldwork internships in social work and human services. Students in the Addiction Studies Program are required to complete two fieldwork internships for a total of 250 hours of experience in various drug/alcohol treatment settings, such as in- and out-patient treatment clinics, transitional housing centers, detoxification units, education/prevention programs, and other programs in the community. These internships offer invaluable opportunities for students to develop their skills, gain insight into the challenges and rewards of the field, and build a professional network.
Program Map
Join us at Los Angeles City College and embark on a journey toward a fulfilling career in human services. Whether you aspire to be a substance abuse counselor, peer recovery specialist, outpatient program coordinator, residential program counselor, public health educator, or another addiction studies career, our department is here to support and guide you every step of the way. Learn more about our transfer pathway by clicking the link below.
Our program fulfills the course and practicum requirements needed to take state exams to become a certified drug/alcohol counselor. Our program is accredited by both (CAADE) California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educators and (CCAPP) California Consortium of Addiction Programs & Professionals.