The Substance Use Studies major is an interdisciplinary program that incorporates courses from Psychology, Social Work, and Sociology. Courses examine the issues surrounding substance use and substance use disorders with a biopsychosocial focus. They examine the theories behind how and why people develop Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and help students develop skills to help people with SUDs. Substance Use Studies aims to inform students about topics surrounding drug misuse, such as: how the brain plays a role in drug use, who is at a higher risk for a SUD, how drug misuse can impact personal relationships, and how to help people treat SUDs. After completing this program, students will be able to work as substance abuse counselors and work towards professional certification should they choose to pursue it as well as the opportunity for growth in other careers.
The degree of Bachelor of Science, with a major in Substance Use Studies, requires successful completion of 120 semester hours, including (1) the General Education Program; (2) the Substance Use Studies program listed below; and (3) a program of electives or minor as worked out with a student's advisor. A GPA of 2.0 is required. No additional research tools, examination procedures, fieldwork, or requirements such as a research paper, thesis, or dissertation are required outside of coursework.
