University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for substance abuse counseling in Pennsylvania.

What is Substance Abuse Counseling?


Pennsylvania offers a range of top-tier colleges and universities that provide degree programs in addiction counseling. Aspiring addiction counselors can choose from associate’s, bachelor’s, and graduate degree options, each designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively with individuals struggling with addiction. These programs vary in focus and curriculum, but all are intended to prepare graduates for careers in addiction counseling by addressing the core areas of addiction treatment, behavioral health, and counseling techniques.

Becoming an addiction counselor in Pennsylvania requires specialized training and knowledge. Addiction counseling programs at schools across the state offer comprehensive education, covering everything from counseling theory and practices to addiction treatment methods. Graduates are well-prepared for employment in a wide range of settings, including rehabilitation centers, private practices, hospitals, and government agencies. These programs enable students to identify and develop treatment plans for individuals struggling with addiction, equipping them to provide essential care to clients of all ages.

Featured Online Programs

Top Ranked Campus & Online Addiction Counseling Programs in Pennsylvania


1

Drexel University

Score: 82.44

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,663
    • Out-of-State:$60,663
  • Net Price: $39,267
  • Acceptance Rate: 80%
  • Retention Rate: 87%
  • Graduation Rate: 78%
  • Total Enrollment: 22,344
  • Undergrad Students: 14,021
  • Graduate Students: 8,323
  • Grads Salary: $84,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Drexel University
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,842
    • Out-of-State:$36,842
  • Net Price: $26,723
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,021
  • Undergrad Students: 1,737
  • Graduate Students: 284
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Elizabethtown College
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3

Carlow University

Score: 77.67

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $34,502
    • Out-of-State:$34,502
  • Net Price: $17,437
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,104
  • Undergrad Students: 1,247
  • Graduate Students: 857
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Carlow University
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4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $47,146
    • Out-of-State:$47,146
  • Net Price: $33,919
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 78%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,107
  • Undergrad Students: 5,095
  • Graduate Students: 3,012
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Duquesne University
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5

Misericordia University

Score: 76.8

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,370
    • Out-of-State:$38,370
  • Net Price: $27,033
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,242
  • Undergrad Students: 1,776
  • Graduate Students: 466
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Misericordia University
6

Alvernia University

Score: 74.32

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $42,810
    • Out-of-State:$42,810
  • Net Price: $27,091
  • Acceptance Rate: 59%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,484
  • Undergrad Students: 2,018
  • Graduate Students: 466
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Alvernia University
7

Clarks Summit University

Score: 70.26

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $32,400
    • Out-of-State:$32,400
  • Net Price: $16,176
  • Acceptance Rate: 65%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 552
  • Undergrad Students: 376
  • Graduate Students: 176
  • Grads Salary: $48,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Clarks Summit University
8

Lancaster Bible College

Score: 68.89

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,990
    • Out-of-State:$29,990
  • Net Price: $21,415
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,066
  • Undergrad Students: 1,546
  • Graduate Students: 520
  • Grads Salary: $57,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Lancaster Bible College
9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,230
    • Out-of-State:$16,434
  • Net Price: $20,776
  • Acceptance Rate: 96%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,455
  • Undergrad Students: 6,497
  • Graduate Students: 958
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
10

Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Score: 66.81

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,682
    • Out-of-State:$13,248
  • Net Price: $13,168
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,796
  • Undergrad Students: 1,783
  • Graduate Students: 13
  • Grads Salary: $61,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Online Addiction Counseling Education in Pennsylvania


Addiction counseling is a mental health field that specializes in the treatment of addiction and substance abuse. Addiction counselors work with individuals, families, and groups to help them overcome addiction and maintain sobriety. They can provide counseling and therapy, as well as education and support services.

Addiction counseling is a growing field, with demand for professionals outpacing supply in many places. There are many different types of addiction counselors including those who specialize in alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, sex addiction, and more. Some counselors specialize in working with adolescents or seniors, while others work with specific populations, such as veterans or teens.

The main role of an addiction counselor is to help clients recover from their addiction and live healthy lives free from substance abuse. Counselors can provide individual and group therapy, as well as educational lectures and support groups.

Online Associate Degree in Addiction Counseling (AS)

An online associate degree in addiction counseling gives you the skills to help those struggling with addiction. You’ll learn about various addictions, treatment planning, and providing support. While you can work as a substance abuse counselor with this degree, ensure the program meets your state’s requirements by checking with the school or licensing board.

An associate degree typically takes two years to complete, covering general education and core courses in psychology, counseling, and substance abuse. If you plan to pursue a bachelor’s afterward, ensure the school has a transfer agreement with a nearby four-year institution. An associate degree in addiction counseling can help you make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction, but note that you’ll need two years of experience to qualify as a full substance abuse counselor.

University HQ Top 10 Associate National Rankings

Online Bachelors Degree in Addiction Counseling (BS)

This type of program can be convenient for students who are already working in the addiction counseling field and want to further their education or for people who are interested in entering the addiction counseling field and have just completed high school. If you already have a job and want to get into the field without leaving your current job or location, you should definitely consider the online option. While these programs do not provide as much hands-on learning, they do offer quality degrees that can help you get into a career.

An in-person or online degree in addiction counseling can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need and access to better careers in the field than you would have with an associate degree alone. Coursework may include topics such as pharmacology, physiology of addiction, mental health disorders, and family dynamics. In addition to coursework, students typically complete a practicum or internship to gain hands-on experience working with clients who are recovering from addiction.

University HQ Top 25 Bachelors National Rankings

Online Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling (MS)

Earning an in-person or online master's degree in addiction counseling is a great way to expand your skills as an addiction counselor. These programs prepare students to sit for the examination for the certification of master addiction counselors and can allow them to work in private practice, either by themselves or with a group of other counselors and therapists. Graduates of these programs can find careers in hospitals, community mental health centers, employee assistance programs, and the juvenile justice system. If you're considering an online program, you should make sure it offers financing options, including grants and work-study programs.

Find Online Substance Abuse Counseling Schools

The curriculum for a master's degree in addiction counseling includes foundational courses (which may look much like the courses you took in undergraduate programs but in grater depth), core classes, and electives. Your program’s curriculum might include subjects such as recovery and relapse, personality theories, and biological systems of chemical dependency. To earn a degree at this level, you must complete around 60 credit hours, maintain an appropriate GPA (usually around 3.0), and pass a comprehensive exam. Many programs offer part-time options because the program is meant for working professionals.

University HQ Top 25 Masters National Rankings

Online PhD in Addiction Counseling (PhD)

In a world where technology is ever-growing, more and more people are turning to online PhD programs to obtain their terminal degree. An online PhD in addiction counseling can be the perfect fit for those who are already busy professionals but want to make even more of a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction. The curriculum for an online PhD in addiction counseling is comprehensive and covers topics such as assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and relapse prevention. Students may also learn about the different types of addiction and how to work with clients from diverse backgrounds. An online PhD in addiction counseling can help professionals to reach the highest pinnacle of their careers, whether they are currently a substance abuse counselor or therapist or working in another field. Graduates can also go on to work in research or teaching positions at universities or colleges. Learn about your options to pay for college

Online Addiction Counseling Certifications

People can struggle with various addictions, including gambling, drug abuse, and sex addiction, or even internet addiction. Thankfully, more individuals are seeking professional help. By earning certifications in specialties like sex or internet addiction, you can better understand and support clients dealing with these challenges.

There are various online addiction counseling certifications available. Some focus on specific addictions, like shopping or sex addiction, while others offer general certification for any type of addiction. Many programs also provide continuing education credits for license maintenance. Before enrolling, it’s important to research your options and choose the program that best fits your needs.

Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Pennsylvania


In order to become an addiction counseling professional in Pennsylvania, there are a few steps that must be followed.

  • Step 1: Earn a degree in addiction counseling

    The field of addiction counseling is growing rapidly as more and more people are affected by addiction. If you want to help people struggling with addiction, a degree in addiction counseling can provide the training you need. Addiction counseling degrees can be found at many different levels, from associate degrees to doctorates.

  • Step 2: Become a certified addiction counselor

    Certified addiction counselors are in high demand and this is expected to continue. If you're passionate about helping those struggling with addiction, becoming a certified counselor is a great choice. There are various certification programs, covering counseling theory, addiction treatment, and case management, with licensure requiring supervised clinical experience. Once certified, you can work in settings like hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation facilities.

  • Step 3: Obtain experience in the field of addiction counseling

    If you are looking to obtain experience in the field of addiction counseling, there are a few steps you can take. You could find an addiction counseling internship. Or you could volunteer at a local substance abuse treatment center. Volunteering can be a great way to gain experience and learn more about the field of addiction counseling. If you’ve already completed your degree, you might also be able to find an open position for a group counselor to run a support group or to help in a rehab facility.

  • Step 4: Gain licensure

    Once you have your degree and experience in the field, the only thing left is for you to gain licensure and specialize in the part of the field you are most interested in. There are many different certification programs available that can help you do this, so you can choose one that fits your skills and interests. Certification programs typically include coursework in counseling theory and practice, addiction treatment methods, or case management. At this level, you will be prepared to work in a huge variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, and private practice.

What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in This Field?


Certified addiction counselors are in high demand, as the number of people with addiction problems continues to grow. If you're interested in helping people who are struggling with addiction, becoming a certified addiction counselor is a great option. As mentioned before, you can work in many settings, though the options will expand as you gain more education and licensure. However, there are fewer requirements for addiction counselors in this state than there are in some others, so you may not need to earn a master’s degree. A bachelor’s may be enough to get you access to most of the positions in the state that deal specifically with addiction, though that’s no reason to stop earning certifications if they can help you advance your career or reach a larger group of patients.

Potential Careers for Addiction Studies Graduates


  • Clinical Social Worker:

    Clinical social workers provide emotional and social support to patients and their families. They work with patients to help them cope with their illness, understand their treatment options, make decisions about their care, and develop a support system. Clinical social workers also provide crisis intervention and counseling services.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Master’s degree in social work
    • Licensed by the state in which they practice
    • Clinical experience

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for mental health and substance abuse social workers in the US in 2021 was $49,130
    • The mean annual wage for mental health and substance abuse social workers in Pennsylvania is $43,650
  • Adult and Geriatric Counselor:

    An adult and geriatric counselor will provide counseling and therapy services to adults and seniors. They will work with clients to address issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, and stress management. The counselor will also provide guidance on life transitions, such as retirement or empty nest syndrome.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field
    • Licensed or certified as a counselor in the state of practice
    • Experience working with adults and seniors preferred
    • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for rehabilitation counselors in the US in 2021 was $38,560
    • The mean annual wage for rehabilitation counselors in Pennsylvania is $42,630
  • Health Psychologist:

    Health psychologists are responsible for helping people manage their physical and mental health. They may work in a hospital, clinic, or private practice.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Doctoral degree in psychology
    • Licensed to practice in their state

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in the US in 2021 was $82,510. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earned $48,520
    • The mean annual wage for clinical and counseling psychologists in Pennsylvania is $77,140. Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earn $49,480
  • Child Counselor:

    A child counselor will provide counseling and guidance to children who are experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties. They will work with the child to identify the root of the problem and develop a plan to address the issue. The counselor will also work with the child's family to provide support and guidance.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Master's degree in counseling or social work
    • Licensed by the state as a counselor or social worker
    • Experience working with children

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510 and counselors (all others) earned $45,160
    • The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Pennsylvania is $66,390 and counselors (all others) earn $56,630
  • Military Counselor:

    A military counselor provides support and guidance to service members and their families. They help individuals cope with the challenges of military life, such as deployments, separations, and other stressors. Counselors in this specialty also provide crisis intervention and referrals to other services as needed.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Master’s degree in counseling or a related field
    • Must be licensed or certified as a counselor in the state where practicing
    • 2 years of experience working with military personnel and their families is preferred

    Estimated Salary

    • Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earned $48,520 and counselors (all others) earned $45,160
    • Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earned $49,480 and counselors (all others) earn $56,630
  • Residential Counselor:

    A residential counselor provides support to residents in a group home setting. Responsibilities include developing and implementing individualized service plans, providing crisis intervention and support, facilitating recreational and social activities, and documenting residents' progress. They also promote positive relationships with families and other service providers.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree in social work or a related field
    • Working with individuals with mental illness
    • Strong communication and organizational skills
    • Ability to work independently

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for residential advisors in the US in 2021 was $31,220. Clinical and counseling psychologists earned $82,510 and rehabilitation counselors earned $38,560. Substance abuse and mental health counselors earned $48,520
    • The mean annual wage for residential advisors in Pennsylvania is $34,770. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn $77,140 and rehabilitation counselors earn $42,630. Substance abuse and mental health counselors earn $49,480
  • Grief Counselor:

    A grief counselor provides support and guidance to those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. They help individuals process their emotions, work through their grief, and develop coping mechanisms to deal with their loss.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Must have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field
    • Must be licensed to practice counseling in the state where they will be working
    • Must have experience working with individuals who are grieving

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520 and clinical and counseling psychologists earned $82,510.
    • The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor in Pennsylvania is $49,480 and clinical and counseling psychologists earn $77,140
  • Sports Psychologist:

    A sports psychologist will be responsible for providing psychological support to athletes in order to help them improve their performance and well-being. They will work with athletes to assess their needs and develop psychological interventions that address those needs. This psychologist may also be responsible for conducting research on sports psychology topics.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • A doctoral degree in psychology
    • Experience working with athletes

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for counselors (all others) in the US in 2021 was $45,160 and psychologists (all others) earn $102,900
    • The mean annual wage for counselors, all other in Pennsylvania is $56,630 and psychologists (all others) earn $100,290

    Check out all counseling and psychology careers, salaries and requirements

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