Alcohol and Drug Counseling Minor

The alcohol and drug counseling minor equips students with the knowledge, compassion, and practical skill set to pursue a career as a certified alcohol drug counselor (CADC). Rigorous coursework, hands-on practicums, and active engagement with expert faculty members prepare students to take the next step in becoming a credentialed professional in an expanding field.

The alcohol and drug counseling minor prepares students for California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) certification. Additional steps are required to qualify for the alcohol and drug counseling credential, as determined by CCAPP. View the certification process below.

The Department of Psychology is an approved California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) education provider for Drug and Alcohol Counseling.

Alcohol and Drug Counseling Minor Requirements

  • 24 units
  • PSYC 455 practicum hours totaling 128 hours per semester (255 total hours)
  • 21 practicum hours per each of the 12 core competency areas
  • All practicum hours must take place at a Substance Abuse practicum site with supervision compliant with CCAPP requirements
  • Note: Any previous PSYC 455 credit does not count toward practicum hours due to noncompliance with CCAPP requirements

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Program Requirements

CCAPP Certification Process

  • Inform a Department of Psychology faculty member that you wish to have your progress documented according to CCAPP requirements.
  • Complete all minor program requirements.
  • Complete all field hours at an appropriate Substance Abuse practicum site in accordance with the 12 core competency areas.

Graduating students who have met all of the above requirements will be presented with a CCAPP certificate at the Department of Psychology graduation reception. This certificate allows students to pursue CCAPP credentialing.

CCAPP Credentialing Process

  • Complete all work experience and hours required by the CCAPP. Note that requirements vary for CADC-I, CADC-II, and CADC-III. See the CCAPP career ladder for more details.
  • Earn a passing score on the IC&RC written exam for the credential level being pursued.
  • Apply online for your CCAPP credentials.

Learn more about CCAPP credentialing.

Note: This information is current for the 2023-24 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Please refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.