Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the history, philosophy, and trends in addiction counselling.
• Discuss the histories of the following substances: alcohol, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, opioids, amphetamines, hallucinogens, tobacco and caffeine.
• Describe accepted models and theories of addiction and accept prevention and treatment strategies.
• Describe the various assessment instruments and structured clinical interview techniques available.
• Discuss the societal costs of use, abuse, and dependency.
• Describe the ethical and legal considerations related to the role of the addiction support worker.
• Describe the roles, functions, and settings of addiction and community support workers, as well as the relationship between addiction counselors and other mental health professionals.
• Understand the factors that increase the likelihood for a person, community, or group to be at risk for substance.
• Describe how abusive substances affect the brain and central nervous system.
• Describe the effects that must be considered in detoxification, treatment and aftercare planning.

To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Basic Admission Requirements

• High School Completion: Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
• Age Requirement: Minimum 19 years of age.
• Mature Student Status*: Applicants who have not completed high school and are at least 19 years of age, may apply as a mature student.

*Mature student status may be granted to applicants who are over 19 years old and have not completed high school or equivalent. The applicants will be considered for admission based on the skills and experience they have acquired since leaving school. The applicant is required to provide the most recent transcripts or proof of academic accomplishments, a resume or summary of professional accomplishments, and two professional letters of recommendation. The applicant may be interviewed by the Registrar’s or Academic office to further assess their suitability for admission to the program of study.

2. English Language Proficiency

Applicants must meet one of the following:

• Minimum scores from accepted English tests (e.g., IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 46, Duolingo 95, etc.).
• Recent English proficiency test (within 2 years).
• Proof of English-language education:
  • 2–3 years of secondary or post-secondary education completed in English in eligible countries.
  • International credentials must be recognized by WES, ICES, or IQAS.

Requirements can vary from one program to another, so the applicant should be responsible for meeting the requirements set for every program.

Please see the Admission Requirements Guide for more information: Admission Requirements Guide.

To successfully complete this course, students must:

• Pass the final exam
• Attend a minimum of 80% of the scheduled classes
• Achieve a minimum overall score of 50%

• In-class instruction
• Distance education
• Combined delivery: (both in-class and distance)