Earning a bachelor's degree in addiction studies prepares you for meaningful roles in counseling and rehabilitation, addressing the growing need for addiction treatment specialists. This program equips you with essential knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on individuals and communities affected by addiction, offering strong job prospects and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Program Type: Major, Minor, Concentration
Offered: On Campus
Credit Hours: 120
Est. Time to Complete: 4 Years
Department: Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice
90%
Students receive scholarships and/or grants

Employment Outlook
Employment of addiction counselors is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations in 2029.
96%
Job/Graduate School Placement Rate
Program Highlights
Variety of Job Settings
Addiction counselors work in diverse settings like mental health
centers, hospitals, prisons, and private practice, collaborating closely with psychologists, psychiatrists, and legal professionals. Research and Clubs - As an addiction studies major, join the Psychology & Addiction Studies Club to enhance your academic experience and potentially assist in faculty research with permission.
Training Required for Licensing
A six-month supervised clinical experience is a requirement for licensing as an addiction counselor in North Dakota, but is not required for the degree. Faculty will assist you through the process of applying for the consortia, which provide the clinical experience. Graduates who complete their academic requirements are eligible to take the national licensure exam required by the state.
Get Involved
As an addiction studies major, you’re invited to join the Psychology & Addiction Studies Club to help you build a rewarding life outside the classroom. With faculty permission, you may assist in faculty research.
Careers & Outcomes
53K
Median annual salary for substance abuse & mental health counselors
→ U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Top Careers
- Substance Abuse Social Worker
- Mental Health Counselor
- Human Service Assistant
Questions? We're Here to Help

Office of Enrollment Services
701-858-3350
1-800-777-0750 ext 3350
askmsu@minotstateu.edu

Vicki Michels
Director of Addiction Studies, Professor
701-858-3594
vicki.michels@minotstateu.edu
Additional Program Information
Minot State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
The Minot State University addiction studies program is accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission.