Substance Abuse Prevention

Substance abuse prevention is a young but growing career field. The substance abuse prevention certificate was developed as a new certificate for students who wish to become state and nationally certified substance abuse prevention specialists. Aligned with certification requirements in the State of Ohio and with the national certification board, the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC & RC), this certificate prepares educators, clinical practitioners, criminal justice majors and other service professionals to provide community-based interventions designed to reduce substance abuse and related problematic behaviors.

Courses are taught online by faculty in the School of Human Services and select adjuncts working in the field of substance abuse prevention. Several credits can also apply toward a master's degree in public health.

The substance abuse prevention certificate was developed by a team of academic specialists and practitioners in the field to help students and career professionals gain the knowledge, competencies and skills needed to work with the addicted population and those who have been affected by exposure to addictive behavior. Aspects of the program are well suited for those who come in contact with and may assist addicted persons and their families, including:

• Probation, parole and corrections officers
• Social workers and guidance counselors
• Mental health professionals
• Nurses and other medical staff
• Psychiatrists and psychologists
• Military personnel
• Certified professionals who may want to enhance their career opportunities
• Licensed professional counselors

• Complete Common Application
• Pay $100 non-refundable fee
• Submit official School transcripts
• Submit official test scores
• Submit letter of recommendation (optional)