FAQs for the Department of Addictions Studies and Behavioral Health
Master of Health Sciences in Addictions Studies
What are the requirements for being admitted to the MHS in Addictions Studies?
Students must have a 2.5 GPA in their undergraduate work. There are prerequisite courses for the program, but these prerequisites can be taken after admission to the program. The prerequisites include the following: 9 credits of addiction-related course work, including 3 credits in multicultural perspectives and completion of a course in research or statistics.
What is the admissions deadline?
The application deadlines are as follows:
- Fall Semester — July 15
- Spring Semester — November 15
- Summer Semester — April 15
Obtain a graduate admissions application from the GSU admissions office. Have transcripts sent to the admissions office promptly. The application will not be forwarded to the department until it is complete.
How long does it take to complete the master’s degree? How many credit hours?
Once any prerequisite courses have been completed, the master’s degree requirements are 32 credits (29 core required courses and 3 credits of electives). Each student proceeds at a different pace, depending on work and family responsibilities. Many students take only two courses at a time.
What credential do students obtain after graduation?
The program is accredited by IAODAPCA, the agency that certifies addiction counselors. Students who complete the basic program, which includes a clinical internship, receive a waiver on ½ of the paid work experience normally required by IAODAPCA. Students who complete the advanced program, which includes an advanced internship, receiver a full waiver of work experience and are ready to sit for the certification examination after graduation. (For more information about IAODAPCA, see the agency’s web site here.)
I am already certified and have experience working in the field? Am I required to take an internship?
Students who are certified and have over five years’ experience in addiction treatment may be eligible for a waiver of the internship requirement. They must seek this waiver by contacting David O’Donnell, the program’s clinical coordinator. (See the program’s web site for more information about the internship requirements.) If students obtain a waiver, they must take four additional hours of elective in its place. Thirty-two credits is the absolutely minimum requirement for the master’s.
How will I know what courses I am required to take?
When you receive your letter of admission, you will note that you have been assigned an advisor. Make an appointment with your advisor as quickly as possible. He or she will work with you on your personal study plan.
Undergraduate Minor in Addiction Studies
What do I need to do in order to get the undergraduate minor?
The undergraduate minor is made up 18 credit hours in addictions studies. You must have a study plan. See David O’Donnell, the advisor for the undergraduate minor, to create a study plan. Once you have completed the study plan, you must make sure that the advisor you have for your major has a copy for your official file.
