Addiction's counseling is an important part of the assisting individuals with addictive behavior. 
Although there are a variety of addictions including alcohol/drugs, sexual, internet, and others,
this program specifically focuses on training counselors to become alcohol/drug counselors. 

Like other types of counseling, the training and focus of this program is designed to provide
students with the background information and skill sets to enter the field, gain experience under
the supervision of certified professionals, and ultimately pass appropriate examinations for
licensure.  Further, like other counseling training programs, it is expected that students
become well trained in order that they can effectively help others.  For these and other
reasons, all addiction's courses are taught at the 400/500 level at the UI.  Finally, although
there are many types of certifications, since the inception of the addiction's program, the UI
has focused training addiction's counselors to the CADC level or above.  Thus, while any student
may enroll in any class (if prerequisites are met), individuals completing the Addiction's Minor at
the UI are are required to complete two additional classes above traditional CADC or Idaho
Students in Addictions Studies (ISAS) requirements.  We have always believed and expected
that students completing our training need to be a cut above others who enter the field.

Like other fields, Addiction's training and certification is experiencing some major changes.
Currently, there is a major move to a managed care model across the United States. 
At this time rumors have it, that all addiction's counselors will need to have an accredited
Masters degree in a helping field (Clinical/Counseling Psychology, Social Work, etc) to work
with medicaid clients.  However, at this time, the rules related to the required certifications
HAVE NOT been written. Essentially, no one knows what the requirements will be.  Regardless,
if you are an undergraduate entering this field, expect that you are going to need a Master's
degree in your future.

For other undergraduates, having an addictions minor will also help you in the graduate
school application process and make you a more marketable candidate.