An online bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling will help you understand addictive behaviors in society and give you the knowledge you need to start serving populations in need.

From prevention to treatment planning, addiction counselors can positively impact and drastically change life for someone with addictive behaviors. Our program will provide you with an in-depth understanding of addictive behaviors in society and the dynamics of addiction. You’ll be prepared to apply for licensure in North Dakota upon graduation. While licensure varies in each state, our professors will work with you to achieve your goals.

Take the First Step

Get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission. We will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance so you can enroll and begin your classes!

At a Glance

41,000
Job openings projected each year for the next decade

Program Length

As few as 2.6 years depending on transferred credits

Format

  • Online

Tuition per Credit

$495

Is This the Degree For Me?

Who It’s For

  • Those looking to start a career in addiction counseling
  • Students looking to gain an understanding of addictive behaviors and apply evidence-based practices in treatment
  • Anyone interested in learning about addictive behaviors

Career Paths

  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Addiction Counselor
  • Prevention Administrator
  • Behavioral Health Administrator
  • Case Manager

What You’ll Learn

Through our Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling program, you’ll gain an understanding of the core competencies outlined by the North Dakota Board of Addiction Counseling Examiners Licensure Administrative Code. Upon completion of the addiction counseling program, you’ll be prepared to:

  • Facilitate the Screening and American Society of Addiction Medication Assessment (ASAM).
  • Assess client needs and develop a treatment plan.
  • Educate clients, families, and communities about addictive behaviors.
  • Coordinate service for your client and provide referral, discharge, and continuing care.
  • Strictly adhere to the code of Professional Ethics and Responsibilities.

Program Details

Program Information

Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.

Your first step is to get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission. We will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance so you can enroll and begin your classes!

If you are serving or have served our country, we sincerely thank you. Our military services office is here to work closely with active duty, retired, reserve, and eligible family members qualified for military benefits. Learn how we can help you with the application process and review the benefits you have earned.

For a full list of fees, visit our Tuition and Fees page.



The University of Mary is committed to putting your educational goals within reach. Learn what scholarships you qualify for.

We welcome students from various backgrounds, including transfer students from institutionally accredited colleges and universities recognized by the US Dept. of Education and those with military or career and work experience. 

How do I show my previous college, military, or work experience?

  • Official transcripts (if applicable) from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 should be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions.
    • Did you graduate from the University of Mary? Then we’ll get your Mary transcript for you!
    • At most other schools, you can request transcripts by going to the National Student Clearinghouse or by contacting the registrar’s office. 
      • Have your transcripts sent to:

        Office of Admissions

        University of Mary

        7500 University Drive

        Bismarck, ND 58504
      • Or request to send electronic transcripts to registrar@umary.edu.
  • Students with previous career or work experience can earn credits for prior learning.
    • You can choose to test for prior learning credits — we convert your test scores into college credit.
    • You can request a portfolio review for prior learning credits. You’ll assemble documentation to show your experience, which will be reviewed and evaluated by an experienced faculty member.
  • Military experience can count towards a degree.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO APPLY?
  • All of our programs require you to fill out the general application form in addition to submitting the application fee and your transcripts.
  • Any program-specific requirements you’ll need to submit in addition to the items listed above can be found in our catalog.

At the University of Mary, we review every application on an individual basis, ensuring that the materials you submit are evaluated with care and attention. Reach out to us if you have any questions in filling out your application.

Get Started Today

Apply Online

Specializations

  • BS

    Addiction Prevention Minor