Antioch University

What you'll study

The specialization requires 17 credits of focused coursework and clinical experience. Required specialization courses listed in the program catalog are:

• Integrated Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders (3 credits)
• Understanding and Treating Addiction: Biological Perspectives (3 credits)
• Understanding and Treating Addiction: Psychological Perspectives (3 credits)
• Understanding and Treating Addiction: Socio-Cultural-Political (SCP) Perspectives (3 credits)
• Understanding and Treating Addiction: Systems Perspectives (2 credits)
• A + R Electives (3 credits)

Clinical training hours must be earned while working with clients receiving treatment for addictive disorders in an approved addiction treatment setting. For full curriculum and degree requirements, consult the university catalog.

Entry requirements

Apply online and submit the application fee ($50; waived for attendees of an information session). Provide an official bachelor’s transcript from a regionally accredited institution. Submit a typed admissions essay (12 pt., double-spaced) of 800–1500 words responding to one of two prompts about preparation for graduate study or reflections on social justice and personal bias. One professional recommendation is optional (must be from faculty, employer, or mental health professional). After materials are received applicants are invited to a group interview. Materials are submitted to the AULA Admissions Office or via the listed admissions email; application deadlines vary by quarter and include priority dates for international applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly work in addiction treatment centers and private practice; some continue to doctoral programs. The program highlights preparation to work compassionately and competently with people affected by addiction, aiming to produce clinicians with multidimensional, evidence-informed skills sought by treatment providers.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

New master’s students who meet criteria (minimum 3.40 GPA and relevant work/life experience) may be eligible for the President’s Merit Scholarship (a $6,000 award distributed over the first two academic years, with full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress required). The catalog lists a cost per credit for the Clinical Psychology MA of $956; many students use a mix of federal, state, and private financial aid—AULA’s financial aid office assists applicants in identifying suitable options.