Expanding access to addiction treatment requires professionals trained in both evidence-based care and the science of addiction. As a student in ASU’s Department of Psychology, you’ll learn from internationally recognized addiction researchers, psychologists and licensed addiction counselors through the online Master of Science in addiction psychology program while preparing for careers in addiction counseling and future licensure opportunities.
Application deadline
The MS in addiction psychology program offers a rolling admission with multiple start dates throughout the year, including two fall sessions, two spring sessions and one summer session. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Available start terms include:
- Fall Session A (August start)
- Fall Session B (October start)
- Spring Session A (January start)
- Spring Session B (March start)
- Summer Session C (May start)
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply early to ensure adequate time for admission processing before your desired start date. Please refer to the ASU Academic Calendar for current session start dates and important academic deadlines.
Admission requirements
To be considered for admission, you must have:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in health, behavioral health, psychology, counseling or a related field from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) in the last 60 credit hours of your first bachelor’s degree program
or - Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) in an applicable master’s degree program
Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency.
Location and authorization requirements
Due to state licensure requirements, this program is not available to prospective students located outside of the United States. Applicants with international transcripts who reside within the United States may be considered for admission. In most cases, applicants must reside in an approved, non-restricted state to be eligible for admission and enrollment. If you do not currently reside in an approved state, you may still be eligible to enroll. Please contact [email protected] for additional information.
Review ASU's professional licensure and certification website for information regarding state restrictions.
Required application materials
To be considered for admission, you must submit the following supporting materials along with ASU’s graduate application and application fee:
- Official transcripts
- Professional resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Written statement
- Proof of English proficiency, if applicable
Program details and expectations
As part of the program, you will complete six credit hours of practicum consisting of 600 hours of supervised work in addiction counseling settings.
With support from program advisors, you will arrange a supervised practicum experience at a licensed addiction treatment center in your local area. Practicum sites must provide supervision as part of the training experience.
Program staff verify agency and supervisor licensure and maintain practicum training agreements throughout the placement process.
The practicum course also includes a weekly didactic class designed to support professional development and monitor successful completion of practicum requirements.
ASU is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. The MS in addiction psychology program includes coursework and supervised practicum experiences designed to prepare students for addiction counseling licensure in many states.
Because licensure requirements vary by state, you are encouraged to review state-specific requirements before applying.
Next steps after applying
Once your application is submitted, the graduate advising team and program leadership will review your materials to determine whether you meet admission requirements for the program.
If admitted, you will receive an official admission notification with instructions for confirming enrollment and completing next steps through My ASU.
Contact
Email: [email protected]