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Programs & Courses > Substance Abuse Education

Substance Abuse Education

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Learning Options Pathways Additional Info

The Substance Abuse Education program is offered 100% online only.

This embedded technical diploma prepares individuals to help prevent substance abuse, counsel individuals and families with drug and alcohol problems, and perform intervention and therapeutic services for persons suffering from addiction. Includes instruction in individual and group counseling skills, psychology of addiction, substance abuse identification methodologies, substance abuse treatment modalities, substance abuse prevention and treatment resources, psychopharmacology, treatment evaluation, patient education, and professional standards and ethics. This program satisfies the educational requirements and is an approved 360-hour educational program by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

In addition, this program satisfies the 100-hour educational component for licensing as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Training as required by the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). A student may apply for their in training license through the State of Wisconsin DSPS as soon as the 100 hours of education are completed in this program at Blackhawk Technical College and start working in the field to gain hours of experience needed for licensure as a Substance Abuse Counselor or a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor. 

Tuition
& Potential Earnings

Estimated Tuition Cost

$3,830

Paying For College

Median Wage

$41,300

Based on Lightcast Occupational Employment Statistics

Academic Plan

  • Substance Use Assessment, Diagnosis & Treatment
  • Psychopharmacology
  • Understanding Addiction
  • Substance Use Disorder Counseling
For course credits and descriptions, visit the Blackhawk Catalog.

  • Intro to Addiction and Substance Abuse Disorders
  • Professional Practices in Human Services
  • Group Facilitation
  • Rehabilitation Services
For course credits and descriptions, visit the Blackhawk Catalog.

Flexible Learning Options

Many courses at Blackhawk are offered in one or more of these formats:

  • In-Person
  • Live Online (synchronous)
  • Online Anytime (asynchronous)
  • FlexLab (in-person when it fits your schedule)

For some courses, we offer a MyEdChoice option, allowing you to choose how to attend each class session. You can switch between online and in-person formats from week to week or even day to day, depending on your needs and schedule. More Information

In Person
MyEdChoice
Hybrid
FlexLab

Get Credit For Your Experience!

Have you acquired relevant education or work experience? You might qualify for credits based on your prior learning.

Learn More

Start Your Journey to Success Today

Get in touch with an advisor to discuss program details, curriculum, credit transfer options, and financial aid opportunities.

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Additional Program Information

Eligibility for licensing is determined by the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Blackhawk Technical College is not able to determine licensing eligibility. 

Please note: Criminal history may impact your eligibility for licensing and employment. 

Optional: Application for Predetermination

For help determining if your conviction record would disqualify you from obtaining a credential, it is recommended that you complete the Application for Predetermination (Form #3085) through the State of Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

Upon successful completion of this program, you will be able to:

  • Clinically evaluate for substance use disorders and treatment needs
  • Develop treatment plans
  • Facilitate referral to meet needs
  • Demonstrate service coordination skills
  • Demonstrate counseling skills with individuals, groups, and families
  • Provide education relevant to substance use
  • Maintain clinical records according to agency, federal and state guidelines
  • Adhere to accepted culturally competent, ethical, and behavioral conduct
Students in the Courtyard Cafe

Highlights

Technical Diploma

24 Credits

Beloit-Janesville Campus

6004 S. County Road G, Janesville, WI 53547

Potential Careers

Substance Abuse Counselor in Training

Substance Abuse Counselor

Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor

Peer Support Specialist

Career Pathways

A Career Pathway is a step-by-step plan designed to lead you to career success and advancement.

1

Embedded Technical Diploma

Substance Abuse Education

2

University Transfer

Earning a bachelor’s degree has never been more convenient and affordable! We offer a variety of options for students who want to achieve a four-year degree.

Learn More