Substance Abuse Counselor, Certificate of Completion

School of Communications, Humanities and Social Services (CHSS)

The Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate is a 20-credit hour certificate that helps prepare individuals with an associate degree or higher to pursue credentialing in the field of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling. For specific requirements regarding licensing in New Mexico, contact the New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board (NMCTPB) at www.rld.state.nm.us or (505) 476-4610. They will be able to provide current information on eligibility requirements, completing internship hours, procedures for taking the licensing exam, and will be aware of any changes to the credentialing process.

This certificate can also be embedded in the Human Services associate degree as program electives allowing students to earn a certificate in substance abuse counseling within their degree.

Professionals in the fields of Social Work and Counseling may be interested in applying the certificate coursework toward a credential in substance abuse counseling or using it as Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain their professional licenses.

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

• Cost of Attendance
• Tuition
• Books
• Program and Course Fees

Financial Aid Considerations

• This is a financial aid eligible program.
  • Direct Subsidized Loans: 150 percent rule
  • Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.

Career Opportunities

Many students pursuing the Human Services degree are interested in working in the fields of substance abuse counseling, social work and case management. Human Services careers are expected to continue to grow in the areas of counseling, mental health and substance abuse counseling.

Gainful Employment information is available from Job Connection Services.