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Substance Use and Addictions Minor

Help others avoid and recover from addiction with professional training in substance abuse and addictions.

Addiction is a growing problem in our society and one that requires professionals committed to helping those affected by it. Advise individuals and families impacted by alcoholism or drug addiction and help them recover or modify problem behaviors.

Program type:
Minor
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
3 years
Credit hours:
20
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Why minor in Substance Use and Addictions?

A Substance Use and Addictions minor provides you greater understanding of this complex and vitally important area of health and how to help those in need of guidance and support. Substance abuse counselors:

  • Develop, recommend and review treatment goals and plans with clients and their families
  • Assist clients in developing skills and behaviors necessary to recover from their addiction
  • Work with clients to identify behaviors or situations that interfere with their recovery

The Department of Social Work is designated as an Addiction Counselor Training Program by the North Dakota Board of Addiction Counseling Examiners.

Students who complete their major requirements, the Substance Use and Addictions minor and a practicum through the Addiction Counselor Training Program are eligible to take the exam to become a licensed addiction counselor in North Dakota.

What majors pair well with a substance use and addictions minor?

Combining a Substance Use and Addictions minor with certain majors can provide a comprehensive understanding of addiction issues and broaden your career opportunities in fields related to mental health, counseling, and social services. Here are some bachelor's degrees that complement a Substance Use and Addictions minor:

  • Psychology Degree: A psychology major provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes, which is crucial for addressing substance use disorders and providing effective interventions and therapy.
  • Social Work Degree: Social work majors learn about social justice, advocacy, and human services delivery, which are essential for working with individuals and communities affected by substance use and addiction.
  • Criminal Justice Studies Degree: Criminal justice studies majors learn about the legal and criminal justice systems, which are often involved in addressing substance-related crimes and providing rehabilitation services to individuals with substance use disorders.
  • Nursing Degree: Nursing majors acquire skills in healthcare assessment, treatment, and patient care, making them valuable contributors to interdisciplinary teams addressing substance abuse and addiction within healthcare settings.
  • Public Health Education Degree: Public health education majors focus on promoting health and wellness at the population level, including substance abuse prevention, education, and community-based interventions aimed at reducing substance-related harm.

Substance Use and Addictions Minor at UND

  • Set out on a path to becoming a licensed addiction counselor in North Dakota or Minnesota.

  • Designated as an Addiction Counselor Training Program in the State of North Dakota.

  • Complete the minor with 20 credit hours of coursework (7 required, 13 elective).

Substance Use and Addictions Minor Courses

SOC 355. Drugs and Society. 3 Credits.

Social factors affecting use and control of self-administered psychoactive drugs, including alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana and more illicit substances. Topics include social definitions, causes, controls and consequences of drug problems. F,S.

PPT 410. Drugs Subject to Abuse. 2 Credits.

Biochemical, pharmacological, behavioral and therapeutic aspects of substance abuse. Prerequisite: Advanced undergraduate standing. S.

COUN 529. Dynamics of Addiction. 3 Credits.

The course emphasizes the addiction and recovery process including vulnerability factors, diagnosis and treatment, and relapse prevention of addiction disorders for individuals and families. Shared characteristics of behavioral and chemical addictions, addiction theory, research, and policy will be addressed. F,S,SS.

SWK 315. Substance Use and Abuse. 2 Credits.

This course offers a comprehensive examination of substance use and its societal implications, providing students with a nuanced understanding of its dynamics. Through critical analysis and discussion, students will explore historical perspectives and current policies related to substance use and addiction. The course emphasizes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of substance use. Students will learn essential theories, techniques, and concepts including application of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria and the ethical standards of the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC). S.

COUN 250. Dialogue on U.S. Diversity. 3 Credits.

This seminar on diversity issues in the U.S. will cover group communication skills, psychological impact of social/cultural group identities and inequality. S.

PPT 499. Readings in Pharmacology, Physiology and Therapeutics. 1-4 Credits.

Topics and credits to be arranged with the instructor. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Repeatable to 4.00 credits. F,S,SS.

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Looking to connect with the college or find a similar minor?

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