Advanced Training for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (AODA)

Accredited by The Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association

To apply for the program contact:

Josie McDonald

Harold Washington Hall / 328

773.995.2394

The need for effective, dedicated professionals trained in the field of chemical dependency is rapidly increasing in America.  Alcohol and drug dependency coupled with mental illnesses are affecting families and communities across the country.

Chicago State University is aware of this crisis and offers a comprehensive accredited Alcohol and other Drug Addiction (AODA) counselor training program, which will prepare students to work in the field of addictions.  Specifically, the student will be trained not only to treat the disease, but the person and his / her family holistically as well.

About Certification

Students completing the AODA training program will be eligible to take that Ilnois State Certification Examination administered by the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association (IAODAPCA).  The goal of the program is  to lead to employment in facilities such as:

• Hospitals & Clinics
• Schools, Colleges, & Universities
• Community agencies & organizations

The Undergraduate Minor in AODA

Students who are current undergraduates at CSU should select AODA as a minor.  Students who are current graduates at CSU should select AODA as post baccalaureate certification.

Prerequisites

Required Courses

Required CSU Exams:

Student must complete CSU English, Math, and Reading placement examinations or equivalent courses.

Post-Baccalaureate Certification

Students wishing to enroll in the program who have completed the prerequisites and required courses listed for the undergraduate minor.  Students with a bachelor's degree are exempt for university placement exams, but must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale (2.75 - 2.99 may qualify for conditional status)

Employment Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Statistics (2006-2007), the demand is expected to be strong for substance abuse, behavioral, and mental health counselors for a variety of reasons.  Substance counselors (with either a Bachelors or a Masters degree) help people who have problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling, and eating disorders.  These counselor sessions for individuals, families and groups and provide case management and referral services.

Salary Information

In Illinois, the salary for Drug Abuse Counselors in 2006 ranged from $19,540 to $45,470.  The median salary ranged between $24,350 to $37,520.  It was noted that government employers paid highest wages.

Staff

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