Associates of Arts in Alcohol and Drug Studies

This Associate of Arts (AA) degree in alcohol and drug studies integrates essential knowledge in addiction, recovery, and counseling techniques. Preparing students for immediate entry into substance abuse counseling roles and further study in behavioral health. The 39 core units meet California’s state certification requirements, ensuring professional readiness for addiction counseling.

Additional AA coursework deepens academic foundations, positioning graduates for advanced entry-level opportunities in the field. Designed for transfer within the California State University (CSU) system, this program supports continued education in California’s public universities. It is accredited by CCAPP, ACCBC also known as CAADE and CADTP, affirming that graduates meet the highest standards in certification and professional practice. For details on transfer options, students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor.

ADS courses continue being taught consistently, and ADS course schedules have been set for two years and these set schedules include the practicum courses, thus allowing for stable numbers in an Associates Degree in ADS being completed. In addition, it is evident that the last few years, there has been an upward trend in ADS course enrollment and we continue to expect the aforementioned trend. 

With that said, each ADS course offered has approximately 30 students enrolled per course and the retention rate has been well above the institutional goal of 70%. Furthermore, of the students who go on to begin practicum courses, the completion rate surpasses that of 90%. As a result, we expect to see 50 or more students completing the Associates Degree in ADS on a yearly basis. 

Goal 1: Develop a Comprehensive Understanding of Addiction

• Objective 1: Identify and explain various models and theories of addiction, and analyze how social, political, and economic factors contribute to substance use and addiction.

 Goal 2: Promote Culturally Competent Counseling

• Objective 2: Demonstrate culturally sensitive counseling practices by applying treatment services aligned with the client’s personal and cultural identity and language.

 Goal 3: Encourage Ethical and Professional Standards

• Objective 3: Adhere to ethical and professional standards in addiction counseling by demonstrating self-awareness, ethical behavior, and a commitment to supervision and crisis intervention protocols.

 Goal 4: Build Proficiency in Diagnostic and Treatment Criteria

• Objective 4: Apply diagnostic and treatment criteria for substance use disorders appropriately across the continuum of care, ensuring effective and individualized client support.

1. Explain various addiction models and theories, including the social, political, economic, and cultural contexts that shape addiction. Assess risk and resiliency factors alongside the behavioral, psychological, physical, and social effects of psychoactive substances.

2. Describe and apply diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities for substance use disorders, employing culturally sensitive treatment and placement criteria across the continuum of care. Emphasize ethical standards, self-awareness, and professional readiness, integrating an interdisciplinary approach to treatment, recovery, and crisis management.