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Addiction Treatment and Recovery
Master of Science in School Counseling
Expand your counseling knowledge and skills in the areas of substance abuse, addiction and compulsive behaviors in the MS in School Counseling, Addiction Treatment and Recovery specialization.
You’ll complete two foundational addiction courses and choose two out of three other courses specific to addiction and recovery.
As part of the 90-credit CACREP-accredited program, this specialization is designed to prepare students to pursue professional licensure as a school counselor.*
*This specialization is not designed to prepare students to pursue professional licensure in the addictions field. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credentials or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant’s completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualification for a salary advancement.
Classes start January 8
Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.
At a glance
- GuidedPath
- Online & in person
- 13 Core courses
- 4 Specialization courses
- 2 Residencies
- 1 Practicum
- 2 Internships
- CACREP and CAEP accreditations
Reduce your tuition by $2,500
Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $2,500 Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your master’s degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
Explore school counseling courses
- This degree requires a total of 90 quarter credits in GuidedPath
- You’ll need to complete 13 core courses, four specialization courses, two in-person residencies, one practicum and two internships
| COUN5279 * |
Life Planning and Career Development
In this course, learners develop foundational knowledge and skills applicable to career counseling and development. Learners analyze theoretical models of career development as they relate to client interests, aptitudes, personalities, traits, values, and work preferences. In addition, learners explore the ways in which social interests, family relationships, cultural facets, and developmental factors and circumstances resulting from life transitions relate to career development across the lifespan. Learners also discuss legal and ethical issues associated with career counseling practice. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in School Counseling, and BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling learners only. Prerequisite(s): BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC4700 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. |
4 quarter credits |
|---|---|---|
| COUN5260 |
Theories of Addiction Treatment
Learners in this course investigate the nature of addiction problems, studying various theories and models of addiction to evaluate the validity and efficacy of associated treatment approaches. Learners also utilize critical thinking skills in the application of theory to therapeutic work with specific populations. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSW, MSW—Advanced Standing, and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior graduate certificate learners only. |
4 quarter credits |
| COUN5261 |
Interventions for Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Learners in this course investigate current treatment interventions for substance-related and addictive disorders. In addition, learners evaluate diagnoses for substance-related and addictive disorders and apply appropriate treatment. Topics include inpatient and outpatient treatment options, self-help groups, the use of alternative treatment modalities, and continuum of care including community resources, relapse prevention, and recovery planning. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSW, MSW—Advanced Standing, and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior graduate certificate learners only. |
4 quarter credits |
| COUN5268 |
Psychopharmacology and Medication Management
Learners in this course examine the neurobiological, behavioral, psychological, and physical effects of psychoactive substances on individuals and analyze the classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medication. Learners also apply principles of psychopharmacology to the clinical practice of counselors and therapists, including consultation and interfacing with the medical community and other systems of care. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy degree program and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior graduate certificate learners only. |
4 quarter credits |
| COUN5258 |
Group Therapy and Treatment of Substance-Related and Addictive Behaviors
In this course, learners explore group counseling as an important aspect of addictions treatment, recovery, and relapse prevention. Learners develop a personal model of group treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders that is informed by counseling and group theories; ethical, legal, and cultural considerations; and group development models. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSW, MSW—Advanced Standing, and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior graduate certificate learners only. |
4 quarter credits |
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
What you’ll learn
Help improve the lives of young people with addictive disorders and behaviors using theory and research-based methods in the Addiction Treatment and Recovery specialization.
As a graduate, you will be expected to uphold codes of ethics from the American Counseling Association and the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), and to champion the highest standards based on the ASCA National Model for Comprehensive School Counseling.
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Identify and apply ethical, legal and professional standards related to addictions treatment and recovery
- Integrate knowledge of addictions counseling theory, research and professional literature to choose activities that promote optimal well-being and recovery in individuals, families, groups and systems.
- Communicate in a manner that is ethical, scholarly, professional and consistent with the expectations for members of professional communities
Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.
How much does the MS in School Counseling cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.*
A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
$34,790
MAX TRANSFER CREDITS
$44,730
AVERAGE TRANSFER CREDITS
$497 per credit, $175 resource kit fee, 90 total quarter credits, 20 max transfer credits
*This is only an estimate, effective July 10, 2023, and is subject to change. Your price will vary depending on your specialization, transfer credits, and tuition discounts. Books, supplies, and other fees are not included in this estimate. GuidedPath prices show the tuition you would pay if you brought in an average number of transfer credits or the maximum allowed transfer credits. New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs.
Capella is committed to transparency in its tuition and pricing. In addition to tuition, you will be responsible for additional costs, which may include an application fee, travel expenses, and practicum costs. A resource kit fee of $50-$175, charged quarterly or per billing session, covers the cost of required books, software, and other course materials. Click here to review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education. Learn more about financing your education.
Questions about cost?
Contact an enrollment counselor.
95% of alumni with a master‘s in counseling agree that Capella faculty were well qualified and did a good job.*
*Alumni Outcomes Survey, 2022–2023
Are there scholarships available for master's degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
Preparing for licensure
It is important to understand all educational and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.
What are the MS in School Counseling admission requirements?
Admission requirements
Applicants to the MS in School Counseling program must provide the following information for admission:
- A bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
- Your official bachelor’s transcripts, minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale; if your GPA is lower, call enrollment services at 1-866-736-1751 to discuss alternate admission options
- Your official transcripts from all previous educational institutions, including any graduate or professional school coursework
- Two letters of recommendation completed by professionals who can assess your aptitude for graduate education in school counseling
- Your resume or curriculum vitae and a 3–6 page essay
- A $50 nonrefundable application fee, required at the time of application, to cover transcript requests, transcript evaluation and other administrative costs
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of a master’s student. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your degree with support from faculty, staff and online resources.
Articles and resources
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Helping Professions Guide
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Financing Guide
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University Guide
Learn more about how we’re taking higher education to a higher level at Capella.
What can you do with an MS in School Counseling degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with a Master of Science in School Counseling, Addiction Treatment and Recovery specialization.
Job titles to explore
- Licensed school counselor
- Middle school counselor
- High school counselor
- Student services professional
- Director of disability services
- Qualified professional
- Child and adolescent case manager
Employment settings to explore
- Educational services
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.