Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology—Addictions
Program at a Glance
- The Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions is accredited by NASAC.
- Purdue Global is an NAADAC Approved Education Provider.
- Coursework fulfills the educational requirements to sit for the NCAC, Level I and II certification exams.
We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.
Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions Overview
If you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of those suffering from a substance use disorder or other potentially harmful process addiction, such as gambling or eating disorders, a psychology degree may be the path for you.
Many individuals in our communities face the serious psychological issue of addiction. Substance use disorder is often one of the unfortunate results. Addiction professionals are trained to assist these individuals and are committed to helping improve their quality of life.
Purdue Global is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, represents the professional interests of more than 100,000 addiction counselors, educators and other addiction-focused health care professionals in the United States, Canada, and abroad.
As a student in this bachelor's degree program, you will
- Examine the process of addiction, pharmacology, the recovery process, prevention, and case-management skills.
- Study ways to guide clients in maintaining their sobriety.
- Focus on using the scientific approach to problem solving to evaluate behavior and mental processes while applying psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.
See the University Catalog for policy and degree plan information specific to this program.
Purdue University Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
The HLC (HLCommission.org) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

NAADAC Approved and NASAC Accredited
Purdue Global is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider.
This program is also accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC).
Admissions Requirements
You must be a high school graduate or possess a General Education Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. You are also encouraged to complete orientation before you start classes. Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.
Ways to Save
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Transfer Credits
Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions, including community colleges.
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Prior Work Experience
You could earn undergraduate credit for your life and professional career experiences.
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Financial Aid
Title IV federal financial aid is available for many of our degree programs.
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Grants
Learn about federal financial grants and loan programs that may be available.
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Prior Military Experience
We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.
Calculate your estimated tuition and ways to save.
Take the Next Step in Your Education and Career
Prepare for Certification
Students who complete the program will meet the coursework requirements to take the National Certification Commission for Addictions Professionals' (NCC AP) National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I and II (NCAC I & II) certification examinations.* Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify, including field experience and licensure requirements.
Accelerated Master’s Degree Options
You can work toward a Purdue Global master’s degree in public administration, educational psychology, human services, legal studies, or psychology while you earn your bachelor’s degree. Complete both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in less time and at a lower cost than completing both programs separately. For details and eligibility requirements, speak to an Advisor.
What Courses Will I Take?
The BS in Psychology in Addictions curriculum is designed to equip you with a fundamental understanding of the major concepts, values, theories, studies, research methods, and historical trends in psychology.
Course topics focus on addiction science, assessment, prevention, intervention, treatment, and case management.
- Health Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
- Case Management in Clinical Settings
- Psychopharmacology of Alcohol and Drugs
Program Requirements
- Core Credits45
- Major Credits111
- Elective Credits24
- Total Credits180
Choosing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology—Addictions
Specialize your career in a rewarding field. Learn industry trends and find additional resources on pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology—addictions.
You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Learn the role of substance abuse counselors and find out if this path is right for you.
Adapt to the needs of an ever-evolving world. Learn how technology is creating new addictions and how to combat them in health care.
A Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions can open the door to many professional opportunities. Possible work settings include schools, government, nonprofits, small agencies, sober living homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and corporate treatment centers.
Top 5 Skills Employers Are Looking for:
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
- Social Perceptiveness
Top Jobs With This Degree
Labor market, salary, and projected growth information are supplied by Emsi. Average salary range is based on national data. Projected growth represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2018–2030) at the state level and is based on your geographic location. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, and opportunities for employment. Purdue Global cannot guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.
The professional practice of psychology is regulated by each state, and the degree requirements of this program do not guarantee or prepare you for licensure in any state upon graduation.
Get to Know Our Faculty
Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.
View Psychology Faculty Directory



Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, September 2021. 2020–2021 academic year.
Take 3 Weeks to Get to Know Us
Not sure if Purdue Global is right for you? Experience a Purdue Global undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week period.
There’s no financial obligation and no cost to apply.
That’s the Purdue Global Commitment.
Download our brochure to learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Addictions and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global.
*Refer to www.NAADAC.org for full eligibility requirements. Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.