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Addictions and Substance Abuse Social Work Degree Program Guide - 2024

Addiction and Substance Abuse MSW Degree Concentration Guide
Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: November 7th, 2023

Online and Campus-based Addictions/Substance Abuse Social Work Degree Programs

Explore the various Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited addictions/substance abuse social work degree programs in the United States.

Learn more by exploring the Addictions/Substance Abuse Social Work Degree Program overview.

What is a Social Work degree program with an Addictions/Substance Abuse concentration?

A Social Work degree program with an Addictions/Substance Abuse concentration is a program that focuses on preparing students to work with individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use disorders. The program combines a general social work curriculum with specialized coursework and fieldwork experience in the field of addictions/substance abuse.

The program covers topics such as substance use disorders, treatment approaches, case management, ethics and legal issues, health policy and advocacy, trauma-informed care, cultural competence, and recovery and relapse prevention. In addition, students receive supervised fieldwork experience in a variety of settings, including substance abuse treatment facilities, hospitals, community mental health agencies, and rehabilitation centers.

The goal of the program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address the complex needs of individuals with substance use disorders and to promote recovery and well-being. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers as clinical social workers, case managers, substance abuse treatment counselors, or other roles in the field of addictions/substance abuse social work.