Substance Use Disorder Counseling

Program Information
Background Check Information

Degree Type
60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Code
10-550-1

Time to Degree
2 years

Start Date
August / January / June

How You'll Learn

Hybrid
8-Week Courses

Prepare to work with people experiencing substance use disorders by developing skills in counseling, addiction assessment, case management/treatment planning, group facilitation, trauma-informed care and crisis management.

The safety and well-being of our students is important to us. If you are recently in recovery from addiction, please contact instructor Lisa Walz prior to entering this program.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

Any computer or tablet
Caregiver background check (required annually): $10
Other health requirements may apply depending on practicum placement

How To Apply

Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:
- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an enrollment counselor.

Apply Online

Program Details

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Contact Us

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.

Potential Careers

If you enjoy helping others solve problems, are detail oriented and a good listener, a career in the field of substance use disorder counseling may be right for you. Those in this profession should hold high ethical standards and demonstrate maturity, self-awareness and an appreciation of diverse perspectives.

Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC)
Recovery Support Specialist
Addictions Counselor
Case Manager
Treatment Specialist

Find additional human services career information at the National Human Services Organization.

High School Eligibility

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Please note, you must be at least 18 years old to participate in practicum placements. These begin in the first semester of the second year of the program. Learn more >

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Career Salaries

Salary data not available

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

Financial Aid

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

Financial aid loans
Scholarships
Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

Clinical Site Compliance

Please note that some internship sites require compliance with various COVID-19 safety protocols and measures as a condition to placement. Required protocols and measures may include, but are not limited to, receipt of COVID-19 vaccination and/or testing for COVID-19.

Reasonable accommodations may be available for students with documented disabilities and/or sincerely held religious beliefs. Students seeking accommodation due to documented disability should contact the Student Accessibility Office. Students seeking accommodation due to a sincerely held religious belief should contact Jonathan Pedraza in the Student Life Office.

Program Courses

Education and Human Services Programs

What Makes This Program Unique

This hybrid, cohort-based program meets one night per week during the evening.
This program provides a foundation in psychology, sociology, social work, counseling and case management with a specific focus on substance use disorders.
Get hands-on, real-world experience in an occupational setting through clinical coursework.

Counselor and client

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More Credit Opportunities

Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

Learn More

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

Learn More

Transfer Opportunities After WCTC

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

Explore Transfer Agreements