Find answers to common questions about admission requirements, coursework, practicum experience, licensure and costs for the Master of Science in addiction psychology program.
For complete admission requirements and application instructions, visit the MS addiction psychology admission page.
Program format and coursework
Students complete 15 courses (45 credit hours) over five 7.5-week sessions each year. The curriculum includes core addiction-focused courses, a research methods course, a two-semester practicum (6 credit hours total) and a two-semester applied project (6 credit hours total). Course sequencing varies based on the session in which a student begins the program.
Yes. The MS in addiction psychology is offered through ASU Online, and most coursework is asynchronous. There are two exceptions: the practicum and applied project courses each require attendance at a weekly, live, 3-hour class session held via Zoom. In addition, the practicum includes in-person clinical training at a local placement site, similar to an internship.
No. Once admitted to the program, you do not need instructor permission to enroll in most courses. The exceptions are the practicum and applied project courses, which cannot be taken until your second year in the program.
The practicum requires 20 hours per week of in-person clinical training, a weekly 3-hour live class and additional asynchronous coursework. Because of this time commitment, students may find it difficult to work full time during the practicum semesters.
Full-time students typically complete the program in two years. Part-time students may take up to four years.
Students admitted fall 2026 or later have a maximum of four consecutive years to complete the program.
Admission and application questions
Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is required, either in the last 60 credit hours of a bachelor's degree program or in a completed master's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- ASU's graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Professional resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Written statement
- Proof of English proficiency, if applicable
No, the GRE is not required for admission to this program.
Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency, regardless of current residency.
The MS in addiction psychology program admits students for ASU's fall A and B, spring A and B, and summer A sessions.
Refer to the ASU Academic Calendar for current session start dates and important academic deadlines.
In limited circumstances, students may transfer up to 12 graduate credit hours completed within three years of admission, provided the coursework was not applied toward a previously awarded degree and grades of "B" or higher were earned. Transfer credit from another master's degree program is generally not approved.
No. This program is available only to students residing in the United States.
Practicum and licensure questions
Practicum is a supervised clinical experience in which students provide addiction treatment services.
Students are responsible for identifying a practicum site and supervisor willing to provide in-person clinical supervision. The department's Practicum Coordinator must approve both the site and supervisor before training begins.
During each practicum semester, students complete 20 hours per week of clinical training (300 hours total) and attend a weekly, live, 3-hour Zoom class. Because the practicum spans two semesters, students complete a total of 600 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Yes. Securing a practicum site is the student's responsibility. However, the program's Practicum Coordinator provides guidance and must approve the placement before it begins.
This program is designed to meet Arizona's requirements for licensure preparation. Completing the program may not fulfill licensure or certification requirements in other states. Students should review requirements in the state where they intend to practice.
ASU is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. The MS in addiction psychology program is also pursuing additional accreditation.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as addiction counselor, clinical director, clinician, counselor, substance abuse counselor and therapist.
Common employment settings include substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health agencies, primary care and integrated health settings, criminal justice settings, hospitals, schools and universities and military and veterans' healthcare settings.
Tuition and funding questions
Your tuition costs depend on your program, transfer credits and course load. Use ASU Online's tuition calculator to estimate your total costs.
Estimated tuition and fees for ASU Online students are the same regardless of Arizona residency status.
Please review the MS in addiction psychology financial support and costs page for information about tuition, scholarships, assistantships and financial aid resources.