Substance Use Disorder Counseling

Program Information Background Check Information

Degree Type

60-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Code

10-550-1

Time to Degree

2 years

Start Date

August

How You'll Learn

Hybrid

8-Week Courses

Please note, a caregiver background check ($10) is required before placement in your practicum course.

Acceptance into the program will not be denied based on a criminal background, but certain offenses may prevent you from being able to find a placement and graduate from this program. If you are currently on probation/parole, you may not be eligible for placement.

Program Overview Application Deadlines Program Cost

Prepare to work with people struggling with substance use disorders by developing skills in counseling, addiction assessment, case management/treatment planning, group facilitation, trauma-informed care and crisis management. Become eligible for Wisconsin licensure as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Training (SAC-IT) and complete all educational hours required for Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) certification.

The safety and well-being of our students is very important to us. If you are recently in recovery from addiction, please contact instructor Lisa Walz prior to entering this program.

Deadlines To Know*

Fall 2023 Start

Application Opens: October 1, 2022
Application Deadline: August 7, 2023

Spring 2024 Start

This program cannot be started in spring.

Summer 2023 Start

This program cannot be started in summer.

* Submit all checklist items by the application deadline. Apply early; deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

Any computer or tablet
Caregiver background check (required annually): $10
Other health requirements may apply depending on practicum placement

How To Apply

Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.

Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:

- High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
- ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
- Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
- If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an Enrollment Counselor.

What Makes This Program Unique?

Graduates of this program are eligible to seek licensure in Wisconsin as Substance Abuse Counselors in Training (SAC-IT).

Graduates of this program meet all required educational hours for the Wisconsin Substance Abuse Counselor license, which is attained by completing educational hours, work hours and successful completion of the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) exam.