Overview

Qualified specialists are in demand as we learn more about the frequency and severity of alcoholism and other substance abuse. The chemical dependency counseling degree prepares you as a professional in the addictions treatment field for practice experiences in therapeutic communities, rehabilitation centers, outpatient programs, correctional facilities, hospitals, and related organizations. Specialized courses in counseling are combined with courses in the humanities, social sciences, math, and science. The program also provides required continuing education and clock hours for those already working in the field.

A new 350 clock hour certificate program in Chemical Dependency Counseling is available at TC3. It is intended for individuals who are: a) seeking a 350 clock hour certificate to meet New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) credentialing requirements; b) seeking to enhance their current employment or academic experience with concentrated study in a specialized career field; c) seeking to complete their certificate program requirements partially or entirely online. In addition, the certificate provides an alternative educational opportunity for those pursuing direct access to the addictions employment field upon program completion. Besides the 350 clock hours of education/training, students must also complete 1 – 3 years of specific work experience in the chemical dependency field to meet eligibility requirements for the NYS OASAS credentialing examination.

Clock Hours and Continuing Education

The chemical dependency counseling degree and certificate provide the 350 clock hours of education and training required by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse for credentialed alcoholism and substance counselors (CASAC). The programs also provide course work for counselors pursuing re-credentialing.

Field Experience

Students will participate in two semesters of field experience as part of the chemical dependency counseling program. Each four-credit fieldwork course requires 120-150 hours of work experience under the direction of a licensed, certified, or credentialed health care or treatment professional, plus one hour of classroom instruction per week.

Career Opportunities

This program provides training for employment in human service and criminal justice agencies as case managers, case workers, social welfare examiners, youth and child care workers, and home visitors. Examples of employers of our graduates include: Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services, Catholic Charities, Seven Valleys Council, Tully Hill CD Treatment Center, Veterans Administration Medical Hospital, the William George Agency, Dick VanDyke ATC, and Willard Drug Treatment Center.

Transfer Options

Recent graduates have continued their education in addiction studies, psychology, human services, health education, and social work at:

• Binghamton University
• SUNY College at Brockport
• Cornell University
• SUNY College at Cortland
• Empire State College
• Ithaca College
• University of Phoenix
• SUNY College at Plattsburgh
• Syracuse University