Now’s the right time to search for the best affordable online Bachelor’s in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling degree programs. Kind, sympathetic people are needed to help alcoholics and drug addicts defeat their disease. In 2017, the United States declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency. According to the Department of Health & Human Services, 10.3 million Americans abuse prescription painkillers. Every 24 hours, more than 130 people die from opioid overdoses. Unfortunately, numbers are equally staggering for other substances. It’s estimated 808,000 people used heroin last year. Nearly 1.5 million adults over age 12 used cocaine. Fifteen million adults, about 6 percent of the U.S. population, also have alcohol use disorders. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that $232 billion is spent on addiction health care yearly. Getting a cheap substance abuse and addictions counseling degree online will prepare you to assist individuals fighting for sobriety. Online colleges will provide convenient 24/7 courses to learn therapy approaches and develop clinical skills on your schedule.
Our Methodology
Therefore, Affordable Schools sought to locate the most economical substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs online. We used the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator tool. We browsed for four-year bachelor’s majors related to substance abuse treatment. We checked the box for distance education to ensure most courses are online. Our results formed an initial pool of 30 online universities. We narrowed the list based on average in-state costs. We recorded how much the average in-state undergrad pays for 30 semester credits each year. Out-of-state fees are only mentioned below for your reference. Our team then created a five-point affordability scale. Each high-value substance abuse and addictions counseling degree was graded accordingly.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 Points
$15,001 and Up: 1 Point
Next, the AS Staff looked at which online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors pay off most. We did so by finding the College Navigator’s graduation rate. From 0 to 100, this percentage tells the share of undergrads who finish on time. Bachelor’s degree completion times of four to six years are considered normal. Bigger percentages here indicate more addictions studies students actually graduate. Good graduation rates suggest both high-quality learning and return on investment. You’ll likely be more satisfied with the online curriculum and support services. You’re also less likely to drop out and waste tuition dollars. We awarded our 20 online best-value substance abuse and addictions counseling degree program’s points based on graduation rate.
Points:
Less than 30 Percent: 1 Point
Between 30 and 50 Percent: 2 Points
More than 50 Percent: 3 Points
Finally, Affordable Schools determined which cost-effective substance abuse and addictions counseling degree options online have small classes. We used the student-faculty ratios in the U.S. Department of Education’s database. Student-faculty ratios show the relationship between pupils and their teachers. Higher proportions suggest bigger lectures led by just one professor. Lower numbers suggest more close-knit courses with fewer people registered. Class size often affects how well you can learn. Online professors should be readily available to answer your questions. Discussions and web conferencing should also be interactive to build your social skills. We again gave points based on student-faculty ratios. Our staff calculated the point sums and kept the 20 highest scores. Our most affordable distance education substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs were then profiled.
Points:
10:1 or Less: 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 Points
Greater Than 15:1: 1 Point
Ranking the 20 Best Online Affordable Colleges for Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling Degree Programs
20. Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Liberty University kicks off our 20 best online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree options online with $22,584 annual tuition. On Blackboard, the School of Behavioral Sciences provides a high-value BS in Psychology – Addictions and Recovery. Chaired by Dr. Kevin Van Wynsberg, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited online path trains “Champions of Christ” for value-driven drug and alcohol treatment. Liberty Flames receive free electronic textbooks to complete all eight-week courses like Abnormal Psychology and Behavioral Modification in 3.5 years. Seniors must devote 16 weeks total to counseling internships, such as Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic or Centra Health. Graduates will uniquely qualify for American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) certification. Online undergrads may also join the Psi Chi Honor Society, travel to Ecuador, and add the Military Resilience Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Addictions and Recovery
In-State Tuition: $22,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,584
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
19. Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Ohio Christian University claimed 19th place among our best affordable online Bachelor’s in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling degree programs with a $20,806 cost. On Canvas, the Psychology Department offers a low-cost online BA in Substance Abuse Counseling at an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. Overseen by Dr. Larry Olson, the economical 120-credit, HLC-accredited online major integrates Churches of Christ values into addiction therapy training. OCU Trailblazers take 12- or 15-week holistic courses like Diagnostic Evaluation and Prevention Strategies 100 percent online. At least 40 clock hours of field placements, such as AIM Health or Beaver County Behavioral Health, are required. Graduates meet Ohio’s requirements to become Certified Chemical Dependency Assistants (CDCAs). Undergrads could also attend the Circleville Drug Education Conference, use the $250 Strong Start Scholarship, and join the Psych Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Substance Abuse Counseling
In-State Tuition: $20,806
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,806
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 25 percent
18. Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Grand Canyon University stands 18th with an affordable distance education substance abuse and addictions counseling degree path that costs $17,050 annually. On Blackboard, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences delivers a cost-effective online BS in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse. Advised by Dominique Adkins, the economical 120-credit, HLC-accredited online Christian degree option teaches how to treat co-occurring disorders. GCU Lopes can transfer up to 90 credits to skip some seven-week online courses like Crisis Intervention and Case Management. The Fall 2017 acceptance rate was 67 percent for incoming majors with GPAs above 2.25. Online coursework progresses toward Arizona’s Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) credential. Students might also intern with The Meadows, pursue the MS in Addiction Counseling, and use the Active Duty/Reserve Discount.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Counseling – Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse
In-State Tuition: $17,050
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,050
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
17. Purdue University Global
Indianapolis, IN
Total Points: 4
Program Website
Purdue University Global is Affordable Schools’ 17th best online accredited college for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree options priced $14,343. On Blackboard Learn 9.1, the School of Social & Behavioral Sciences offers a low-cost online BS in Psychology in Addictions with a unique three-week trial. Headed by Dr. Miranda Brand, the best-value 180-unit, NASAC-approved online degree track prepares for treating substance abuse plus process addictions. Purdue Boilermakers spend 15-18 hours weekly on 10-week quarter courses like Neuroscience and Stress Management. Bachelor’s capstone projects involve hands-on fieldwork at partners, such as Life Recovery Center or Fairbanks. Graduates can take the Level II National Certification Commission for Addictions Professionals (NCCAP) exam. Majors may also join Psychology Club, pursue the Accelerated 4+1 BS/MS, and add a Behavior Analysis Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions
In-State Tuition: $14,343
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,343
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
16. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Southern New Hampshire University takes the 16th spot among affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors with a $31,136 annual total. On D2L Brightspace, the School of Arts & Sciences grants a high-value online BA in Human Services – Substance Abuse and BA in Psychology – Addictions. Directed by Dr. Robert MacAuslan, both 120-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree programs prepare for entry-level chemical dependency jobs. SNHU Penmen can start eight-week courses like Lifespan Development and Pharmacology six times each year with $0 application fees. The Center for Community Engaged Learning even helps locate internships across 50 states. All 12 core functions outlined by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) are fulfilled. Undergrads might also study abroad in Florence, access Shapiro Library journals online, and get the Edward Nassar Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services – Substance Abuse
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Addictions
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
15. Crown College
Saint Bonifacius, MN
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Crown College is the AS Staff’s 15th most affordable university for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree studies online with a $26,200 annual value. Since Fall 2013, the School of Online Studies has logged into Blackboard Learn for an inexpensive Alcohol and Drug Counseling BS. Organized by Dr. Fawn McCracken, the 125-credit, HLC-accredited curriculum upholds Christian ideals while healing the emotional and spiritual hurts of addiction. Fast-paced, eight-week courses like Methods of Counseling and Treatment Planning start six times each year. Crown College Storm must complete 880 total hours of internships, such as Progress Valley or New Beginnings. Doing so fulfills the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health’s LADC licensure requirements. Students may also transfer from the Alcohol and Drug Counseling AS, join the Global Impact Team, and add the Foundations for Christian Life Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Alcohol and Drug Counseling
In-State Tuition: $26,200
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,200
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
14. University of Providence
Great Falls, MT
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Providence landed 14th among our online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree options with $25,168 universal tuition. On Moodle, the School of Health Professions has a 46 percent average graduation rate for its cost-effective online Addictions Counseling (B.S.) Program. Coordinated by Dr. Cynthia Gustafson, the economical, 120-credit, NWCCU-accredited online degree sequence focuses on intervention tactics for the chemically dependent. Providence Argonauts spend 48 months full-time taking eight-week, online Catholic courses like Helping Skills and Record Documentation. Second-degree bachelor’s students choose the 40-credit Addictions Counseling Certificate instead. Supervised internships, such as the Rimrock Foundation or Kalispell Healthcare, can be arranged for Montana’s LAC credential. Undergrads could also travel to Costa Rica and connect with Health Educators Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addictions Counseling
In-State Tuition: $25,168
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,168
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
13. University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, ME
Total Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Maine at Augusta is the AS Staff’s 13th most affordable college for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors online with a $7,988 in-state price. On Blackboard, the cheap online B.S. in Mental Health & Human Services offers three tracks: Addiction Counseling, Child and Family Services, or Adult Mental Health Rehabilitation. Led by Dr. Brenda McAleer, the School of Professional Studies redesigned this low-cost, 121-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree option in Fall 2019 to better address the opioid epidemic. Around 557 Augusta Bears currently take seven-week online courses like Group Process and Trauma Intervention. Nine credits of field placements, such as Higher Ground or Gallant Therapy, are included for Maine’s CADC credential. Students might also pursue the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Technician Certificate, use UMA Career Connections, earn the Schwartz Scholarship, and join the MHHS Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services
In-State Tuition: $7,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,918
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 18 percent
12. Alvernia University
Reading, PA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Alvernia University is Affordable Schools’ 12th best online accredited university for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree studies with a $34,900 cost. On Blackboard, the College of Professional Programs delivers a high-value online B.A. in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment for 57 percent graduation. Mentored by Dr. Peggy Bowen-Hartung, the 123-credit, MSCHE-accredited pathway builds upon Franciscan principles to intervene in dangerous drug situations. Alvernia Golden Wolves must pass 41 seven-week online courses like Addictive Behaviors and Counseling Special Populations with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Field partners, such as the Livengrin Foundation and Gateway Rehab, provide the 400 on-site practicum hours required. Graduates can take the Pennsylvania Certification Board exam for CADC credentials. Majors may also gain Yellow Ribbon benefits, use the Lake Erie Partnership, and join Lambda Sigma.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment
In-State Tuition: $34,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,900
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
11. Bay Path University
Longmeadow, MA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Bay Path University earned 11th place among online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs charging $34,225 tuition. On Canvas, the American Women’s College provides a low-cost BA in Psychology – Foundations in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling. Supervised by Dr. Kathryn Wiezbicki-Stevens, the 120-credit, NEASC-accredited online degree track teaches adult women how to assess and diagnose substance disorders. Bay Path Wildcats begin accelerated, 12-week online courses like Healthy Living and Social Psychology six times per year. Juniors and seniors spend 300 hours at intensive, off-campus internships, such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Rosie’s Place. Graduates qualify for becoming Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC). Students could also add the Nonprofit Management Certificate, take the One America Trip, and earn $1,000 Reboot Scholarships.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Foundations in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
In-State Tuition: $34,225
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,225
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
10. Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Ottawa University made the top 10 online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors with an $11,976 price anywhere. Since 2013, the School of Arts & Sciences has used Blackboard to deliver a low-cost online B.S. in Addiction Counseling at an engaging 8:1 student-faculty ratio. Headed by Dr. Kirk Bowden, the NAADAC President-Elect, this 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree sequence seeks to “Prepare for a Life of Significance” treating substance dependence. Ottawa Braves are immersed in eight-week online courses like Personality Theories and Clinical Addiction Issues for 2-4 years based on transfer credits. Two 150-hour internship assignments, such as Helio Health and Rebirth Enhancement Services, are required. Graduates can receive the National Certified Addiction Counselor Level II credential. Learners might also pursue the Accelerated MS and use the Transfer Advantage.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling
In-State Tuition: $11,976
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,976
Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
9. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Northwestern State University of Louisiana has our ninth best online affordable Bachelor’s in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling degree options that bill $7,922 in-state. On Moodle, the Global Campus has a cheap online B.S. in Addiction Studies and B.S. in Psychology with a Substance Abuse Concentration. Outlined by Dr. Joseph Biscoe III, both 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree tracks examine the influence of drugs and alcohol on the human mind. NSULA Demons take eight- or 16-week online courses like Pharmacology and Statistics with free IncludED textbooks. Upperclassmen must finish at least 180 hours of on-the-job internships, such as Avenues Recovery and The Serenity Center. Graduates will apply for the Louisiana Department of Health’s CAC certification. Pupils could also take the Prior Learning Assessment, join Addiction Studies Club, exchange to Amsterdam, and earn the Pitsenbarger Award.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Substance Abuse Concentration
In-State Tuition: $7,922
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,710
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
8. University of Michigan-Flint
Flint, MI
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Michigan-Flint boasts our ranking’s eighth-best affordable degree in substance abuse and addictions counseling with in-state annual tuition of $11,304. On Blackboard, the Social Work Department awards an economical online BS in Substance Abuse Treatment and Intervention for 46 percent graduation. Chaired by Dr. Otrude Moyo, the affordable 124-credit, HLC-accredited online degree completion option suits all career goals serving addicts in trying times of recovery. UM-Flint Wolverines need 64 or more transfer credits and GPAs above 2.0 to begin eight-week online courses from Social Justice to Motivation for Change. Seniors tackle two semesters of 220-hour internships, such as Dawn Farm and Pine Rest Addiction Services. Eligibility for Michigan’s Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC) credential is unlocked. Undergrads may also enter the Mpowering My Success Program, pledge Phi Alpha, and serve in Kenya.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Substance Use Treatment and Intervention
In-State Tuition: $11,304
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,065
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
7. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Cincinnati snagged seventh place among our online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree options with $11,000 in-state pricing. On Blackboard, the School of Human Services bestows an inexpensive online B.S. in Substance Abuse Counseling at a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. Directed by Dr. Lawrence Johnson, the low-priced 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree curriculum sharpens students’ clinical skills for addressing addictive behaviors. Interested UC Bearcats can submit $50 applications until July 1st, November 15th, or March 15th. Fully online courses like Cultural Competence and Counseling Ethics have a seven- or 15-week format. Completing two internships, such as Talbert House or Recovery Within Reach, is necessary to attain Ohio’s OCDPB license. Other opportunities include earning the Substance Abuse Prevention Certificate, entering the VetSuccess Program, and joining Upsilon Chi Chi.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling
In-State Tuition: $11,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,334
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
6. Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Indiana Wesleyan University is the AS Staff’s sixth-best online affordable accredited university for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree studies costing $9,816. On D2L Brightspace, the College of Adult & Professional Studies maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio for its cheap online B.S. in Addictions Counseling. Managed by Dr. Donald Osborn, this low-cost 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree option has a 2+2 transfer pathway to Christian service in drug rehabilitation. Cohorts of IWU Wildcats with 60 or more previous credits and 2.5 GPAs enter bimonthly for 22 months of courses from Addictions Theory to Dysfunctional Family Systems. Finishing 350 hours of field internships, such as Beginnings Treatment and Bradford Health, is required before graduation. Graduates are qualified for LADC certifications in 40 states plus Washington DC. Learners might also earn the Certificado en Consejería Pastoral and use the IWU Partner Discount.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addictions Counseling
In-State Tuition: $9,816
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,816
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
5. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University begins the top five with an affordable online substance abuse and addictions counseling degree that bills in-state residents $9,666. On Blackboard, the College of Letters, Arts, & Social Sciences confers a best-value online BS in Psychology for seven concentrations, including Substance Abuse. Advised by Dr. Robert Brubaker, the inexpensive 120-credit, SACS-accredited online degree sequence teaches the fundamentals of addictive behavior therapy. EKU Colonels create personalized plans with quick, eight-week online courses like Psychological Interviewing and Cognitive Science that start six times yearly. Degree completion leads to the Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP) credential. At least 270 clock hours of internships, such as Landmark Recovery or Frazier Rehab, are needed for Kentucky LADC licensure. Students can also add the Social Intelligence or Correctional Intervention Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Substance Abuse Concentration
In-State Tuition: $9,666
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,444
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
4. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of South Dakota finished fourth among our best affordable online Bachelor’s in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling degree options with a $9,061 in-state value. On Desire2Learn, the School of Health Sciences delivers an economical online B.S. in Addiction Studies for a 58 percent six-year graduation rate. Overseen by Dr. Francis Zavadil, the cheap 120-credit, NASAC-accredited online degree path strives to address the public health crisis of drug and alcohol misuse. Incoming freshmen must achieve at least 2.6 GPA, 21 ACT, or 1070 SAT marks. South Dakota Coyotes complete eight-week online courses like Rural Telehealth and Addiction Education. Twelve credits of internships, such as Keystone Treatment Center or Sanford Health, will fulfill the state’s BAPP certification requirements. Pupils may also add the Disaster Mental Health Certificate, join the Coalition of Addiction Students, and win the Faithe Family Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies
In-State Tuition: $9,061
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,425
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
3. SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY
Total Points: 8
Program Website
SUNY Empire State College won bronze as the third most affordable university for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs with a $7,405 in-state rate. On Blackboard Collaborate, the School of Nursing & Allied Health launched a cheap online B.S. in Addiction Studies in August 2019 at a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. Administered by Dr. Thalia MacMillan, the economical 124-credit, MSCHE-accredited online degree plan builds toolkits for reducing substance abuse deaths. Empire State has accelerated eight-week or traditional 15-week modes for online courses from Biological Psychology to Family Intervention. Internships, such as Caron New York or Hazelden Betty Ford, can be woven into the 48-month process. Graduates are eligible for the Credentialed Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) title. Majors might also use the Talk One-2-One line, receive the Excelsior Scholarship, and join the Human Services Collaborative.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies
In-State Tuition: $7,405
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,185
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 26 percent
2. Western New Mexico University
Silver City, NM
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Western New Mexico University is our list’s second-best online affordable college for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree plans with a $6,066 in-state cost. On Canvas or at Phelps Dodge Hall, the School of Behavioral Sciences provides a low-cost online BA/BS in Chemical Dependency Counseling for 26 percent average graduation. Mentored by Mr. Jim Helgert, the inexpensive 120-credit, HLC-accredited online degree path produces adept counselors to treat substance addictions. WNMU Mustangs attend one-hour Zoom conferences weekly during online courses like Dual Diagnosis and Military Counseling. Upperclassmen must finish 300 or more clock hours of supervised internships, such as the Drug Policy Alliance or Sage Clinic. Graduates qualify for New Mexico’s Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) credential. Students could also add the Psychology Certificate, access the Veteran Services Office, and use the Community Service Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Chemical Dependency Counseling
Bachelor of Science in Chemical Dependency Counseling
In-State Tuition: $6,066
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,539
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 26 percent
1. City Vision University
Kansas City, MO
Total Points: 11
Program Website
City Vision University wins the top spot of all online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs with cheap $5,600 tuition. Founded in 1998, City Vision boasts 100 percent graduation and a low 8:1 student-faculty ratio for its low-cost online B.S. in Addiction Counseling on Moodle. Led by Dr. Andrew Sears, the inexpensive 120-credit, DEAC-accredited online degree program covers the 12 core functions of drug and alcohol abuse treatment. Open admissions make starting eight-week, project-based courses like Recovery Coaching and Chaplaincy easy five times each year. Preparation for the NAADAC Level II National Certified Addiction Counselor exam is included. Fifteen percent discounts are available for Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, and US Armed Forces members. Learners could also add the Christian Ministry Certificate, intern with The Crossroads, and volunteer through TechMission.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling
In-State Tuition: $5,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,600
Student-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 100 percent
What are Career Options With a Low-Cost Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling Degree?
Earning an affordable online substance abuse and addictions counseling degree makes you eligible for many jobs treating alcohol or drug disorders. For example, addiction counselors use evidence-based therapy methods to help clients quit substance use. Recovery coaches assist clients with transitioning into real life and staying sober after rehab. Detox specialists provide inpatient support to guide addicts through the hard withdrawal process. Addiction social workers connect alcohol and drug users to treatment options and local resources. Substance abuse directors are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of rehab centers. Health educators may specialize in teaching communities about drug risks for addiction prevention. Correctional treatment specialists often work with inmates who’ve been convicted of drug offenses. Substance abuse nurses are RNs who monitor patients’ vital signs during treatment. Vocational counselors also help recovering addicts rebuild their careers. Other licensed clinician jobs would require attending graduate school after a cheap substance abuse and addictions counseling degree.
How Much Do Affordable Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling Degree Graduates Make?
Finding cost-effective substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors is important because this meaningful social service field usually pays modestly. In May 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual wage of $44,630 for addiction counselors. Mental health counselors have a mean salary of $47,920. Rehabilitation counselors collected an average income of $39,930. Vocational counselors bring home median pay of $56,310. Health educators can expect mean earnings of $59,660 per year. Addiction social workers have a $49,470 standard salary. Correctional treatment specialists are compensated $58,790 on average. Registered nurses receive a median wage of $71,290 at substance abuse hospitals. Health services managers like rehab administrators make a mean $99,730. Community service managers reap between $40,720 and $111,150 annually. On Salary.com, alcohol or drug case managers report a $50,968 average. Chemical dependency counselors earn a mean $53,420 paycheck.
Are Employers Hiring After Top-Value Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling Degree Programs?
Completing an affordable degree in substance abuse and addictions counseling online will likely lead to many job offers because drug use is a widespread epidemic. In 2019, the U.S. News & World Report ranked substance abuse counseling the 50th best job. There are currently 91,040 addiction counselors with low unemployment of 2.2 percent. The Department of Labor predicts employment of these counselors will jump 22 percent by 2028 for 68,500 new positions. Addiction social workers can expect 11 percent job growth. Openings for rehabilitation counselors will increase by 10 percent. Demand for substance abuse RNs will expand by 12 percent. Correctional treatment specialists will see 3,000 added jobs for a 3 percent uptick. Social service management jobs are growing much faster than average by 13 percent. Hiring of marriage and family therapists will speed up by 22 percent. The 10-year outlook for health educators shows an 11 percent increase to 69,400. Choose our online affordable colleges for substance abuse and addictions counseling degree majors to become marketable in these helping professions.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 20 best affordable online bachelor’s in substance abuse and addictions counseling degree programs.
Other Rankings of Interest:
35 Most Affordable Ph.D in Psychology Online
10 Most Affordable Ph.D in Organizational Psychology Online
15 Best Affordable Counseling Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
10 Most Affordable Ph.D in Marriage & Family Counseling Online
The 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return
35 Top Value Psychology Degree Online (Bachelor’s)
25 Best Affordable Master’s in Psychology Online Degrees
20 Best Affordable Colleges for Psychology Degree Online
25 Online Bachelor’s Colleges Under $10K Net Price
25 Cheapest Online Schools for Out-of-State Students (Bachelor’s)
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns