Psychology Department

Advanced Standing

M.S. in Addiction Studies

ADVANCED STANDING POLICY

 

Individuals with demonstrated competency in substance use disorder counseling evidenced by exemplary performance in relevant undergraduate coursework and field placements, as explained below, may apply for Advanced Standing.

WCSU Internal Candidates 

The WCSU Psychology Department provides a sequence of 4 courses (16 credits) as preparation for acquiring a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor certification). Students who have completed at least three courses of this sequence at WCSU and a relevant field placement are eligible to apply for admission with Advanced Standing to the M.S in Addiction Studies program. Criteria for eligibility are:

  • An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Completion of at least three of the four courses in the WCSU Substance Use Counseling sequence (three of: PSY 392, PSY 393, PSY 394, PSY 395) with a grade of B or higher in each course
  • Completed a field placement through PSY 306, or PSY 439, or the equivalent as determined by the Psychology Graduate Admissions Committee, e.g. prior work experience in the substance use disorders field

Advanced Standing Process 

Applications for Advanced Standing (internal and external candidates) should be submitted to the Psychology Graduate Coordinator, Dr. Mary Murphy, LADC, Ph.D.

Students admitted with Advanced Standing will complete 30-31 credits for the M.S. in Addiction Studies. Their course of study will be determined with their graduate advisor according to their individual skills, training, and expertise. A Program Sheet signed by the student specifies all 30-31 credits that must be completed for the degree.

 

MS Addiction Studies Advanced Standing Application (WCSU candidates)