Chemical Addiction Studies
The Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Chemical Addiction Studies is designed to meet the requirement for the State of Montana’s Licensed Addiction Counselor. This program emphasizes the most up-to-date knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of addictions and accommodates students with a wide range of academic and career goals while preparing them for employment in the substance abuse treatment field. Students are exposed to both traditional and current counseling theories; the biological, psychological and social effects of addiction, and the opportunity to apply this knowledge using critical thinking and communication skills.
Degree Requirements
General Education Requirements
Core I
| Communications | 9 |
Core II
| Mathematics and Science | 7 |
Core III
| Arts and Humanities | 6 |
Core IV
| Social Sciences | 7 |
Core V
| Native American Studies | 3 |
Core VI
| Computer Technology | 3 |
Core VII
| Health | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 38 |
Program of Study Courses
| CAS 225 | Group Counseling | |
| CAS 242 | Fundamentals of Substance Abuse & Addiction | |
| CAS 250 | Assessment & Case Management Processes | |
CAS 295
| | 5 |
| HS 250 | Interviewing & Crisis Intervention Skills | |
| PSYX 240 | Fundamentals of Abnormal Psychology | |
| SW 100 | Introduction To Social Welfare | |
| Total Credit Hours: | 23 |
Total Credit Hours: 62
Chemical Addiction Studies
First Semester (Fall)
Second Semester (Sp.)
Third Semester (Fall)
| CAS 242 | Fundamentals of Substance Abuse & Addiction | |
| CAS 250 | Assessment & Case Management Processes | |
Fourth Semester (Sp.)
| CAS 225 | Group Counseling | |
| HS 250 | Interviewing & Crisis Intervention Skills | |
HS 295
| | 5 |
Total Credit Hours: 33
Program Learning Outcomes:
- Define the models, theories, and characteristics of substance abuse and dependence, as they pertain to individuals, family systems, and diverse populations.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the biological, social, and psychological effects of various substances.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the moral, ethical, and legal responsibilities of the addiction counselor
- Demonstrate competency in the documentation of assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries.
**For specific Learning Outcomes, see Associate of Art and Associate of Science Degree General Education
State of Montana Licensed Addiction Counselor’s Test
After graduating with this option, the student must complete 1,000 hours of supervised work experience in a state-licensed substance abuse program in order to apply for the Montana Licensed Addiction Counselor’s test. This requirement is subject to change.