Yes, you can earn an addiction counseling degree part-time while working full-time. Many accredited programs offer evening classes, weekend intensives, online coursework, and hybrid formats specifically designed for working professionals. Part-time programs typically take 3-4 years for a bachelor’s degree and 3-5 years for a master’s degree in addiction counseling, allowing you to maintain your current income while building credentials for a meaningful career change.
You’re working a full-time job. You’ve got bills to pay, maybe a family to support. But you also know the weight of addiction—perhaps you’ve carried it yourself, or watched someone you love struggle under it. That experience won’t let go. It’s planted a seed: you want to become an addiction counselor, turning that pain into purpose and helping others find their way to recovery.
The challenge is real: How do you earn the degree and credentials you need without walking away from your paycheck? You’re not alone in asking this question. Thousands of working professionals pursue addiction counseling degrees every year, and the field has responded with flexible, part-time programs built specifically for people like you.
This guide presents carefully vetted part-time addiction counseling programs designed for working professionals. We’ll show you what makes each program unique, how they accommodate your schedule, and what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Why Part-Time Addiction Counseling Programs Matter for Working Professionals
Career changers entering addiction counseling often come from personal experience with addiction—their own recovery journey or supporting a loved one through treatment. This background brings invaluable empathy and authenticity to the field, but it also means many aspiring counselors need flexible educational paths. Walking away from a steady income isn’t realistic when you have a mortgage, family obligations, or recovery expenses to manage.
Part-time programs address this reality head-on. They’re designed around your work schedule, offering evening classes, weekend sessions, online coursework, and hybrid formats that blend in-person and remote learning. You maintain your financial stability while building the credentials needed for licensure in your state.
There’s a common misconception that part-time means lower quality. That’s not true when you choose properly accredited programs. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) doesn’t distinguish between full-time and part-time tracks—both must meet the same rigorous standards. Regional accreditation ensures transferable credits and eligibility for federal financial aid. The clinical training, coursework depth, and licensure preparation remain identical whether you complete them over two years or five.
What changes is the pace, not the substance. You’ll cover the same evidence-based treatment approaches, clinical assessment skills, ethical frameworks, and supervised practicum hours. The difference is you do it while maintaining the career that pays your bills today, preparing for the job that aligns with your purpose tomorrow.
Our Selection Criteria: How We Evaluated These Programs
We didn’t just compile a list of schools that offer part-time schedules. Every program featured here underwent thorough evaluation against specific criteria that matter for working professionals pursuing addiction counseling careers.
Accreditation Status
We prioritized programs accredited by CACREP for master’s degrees in addiction counseling or clinical mental health counseling with an addiction specialization. CACREP accreditation ensures curriculum quality and may streamline licensure in many states. For bachelor’s programs, we verified regional accreditation from recognized bodies such as the Higher Learning Commission or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Regional accreditation guarantees credit transferability and eligibility for federal financial aid.
Schedule Flexibility
Programs made this list only if they offer genuine flexibility for working professionals. This means evening courses (typically starting at 6 PM or later), weekend intensives, fully online options, or hybrid formats combining limited campus visits with online study. We excluded programs that claim to be “part-time friendly” but offer only daytime classes that conflict with standard work hours.
Time to Completion
We documented realistic completion timelines for part-time students. Programs with clear, published part-time tracks received priority over those that required students to piece together their own extended timelines. We looked for programs that could be completed in 3-5 years part-time for master’s degrees and 3-4 years for bachelor’s degrees, though actual completion times vary by individual pacing.
Affordability and Financial Aid
Cost matters when you’re already supporting yourself. We evaluated tuition rates, fee structures, and financial aid availability. Programs with competitive pricing, transparent costs, and strong financial aid offices for part-time students ranked higher. We also noted which schools offer tuition payment plans and accept employer tuition reimbursement.
Career Support Services
Part-time students need robust support to succeed while juggling work and study. We looked for dedicated career services, academic advising for working adults, practicum placement assistance, and connections to local treatment facilities for clinical training. Programs with evening or online access to support services received preference.
Reputation and Outcomes
We considered program reputation within the addiction counseling field, published licensure exam pass rates, and employment outcomes for graduates. Programs that produce successful, licensed addiction counselors across multiple states demonstrated their quality and portability.
Top Part-Time Addiction Counseling Programs
Purdue University Global – BS in Addictions
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3-4 years part-time (varies by transfer credits and course load)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Purdue University Global’s Bachelor of Science in Addictions provides working professionals with comprehensive training in substance use disorder treatment and recovery support. The program covers addiction theories, counseling techniques, assessment methods, treatment planning, and ethical practice in addiction services. You’ll study the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of addiction while developing practical skills for direct client work.
The program’s fully online format allows you to complete coursework entirely asynchronously, meaning you work through materials on your schedule without attending live sessions. This flexibility makes it particularly well-suited for professionals with variable work schedules, rotating shifts, or caregiving responsibilities. Courses typically run in 10-week terms, allowing you to focus on fewer subjects at once while maintaining full-time employment.
Purdue Global accepts up to 90 transfer credits from previous college coursework, potentially reducing your time to degree completion significantly. The university evaluates transcripts quickly and provides clear guidance on which credits transfer. If you’ve completed an associate degree or substantial college coursework previously, you may finish the bachelor’s program in 2-3 years part-time.
Academic support includes 24/7 access to online tutoring, writing center resources, and library databases. Career services provide resume review, interview preparation, and job search assistance specifically for addiction counseling positions. Many graduates pursue entry-level counseling roles, peer support specialist positions, or case management work in addiction treatment facilities. The bachelor’s degree also serves as a foundation for those planning to pursue master’s-level clinical counseling credentials later.
Tuition at Purdue Global remains competitive for online bachelor’s programs, with financial aid available for qualifying students. The university offers payment plans and works with employer tuition reimbursement programs. Military students receive additional benefits and dedicated support services. Contact Purdue Global for current tuition rates and personalized cost estimates based on your transfer credits.
Arizona State University Online – Bachelor’s Programs in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3-4 years part-time (varies by program and transfer credits)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Arizona State University’s online programs in social and behavioral sciences include several degree paths relevant to addiction counseling careers. The BA in Psychology allows specialization in clinical or health psychology tracks, both providing foundation knowledge for graduate study in addiction counseling. The BA in Human Services prepares students for direct work in social service agencies, including substance abuse treatment programs. The BS in Applied Behavioral Health Sciences focuses specifically on substance use disorders and addiction treatment approaches.
ASU Online’s 7.5-week course sessions create manageable chunks of study that fit working professionals’ schedules. You can take one or two courses per session, with multiple start dates throughout the year so you don’t need to wait for traditional fall semester enrollment. The accelerated session length means you can complete more courses annually than traditional semester systems while maintaining part-time status.
What sets ASU Online apart is the combination of a respected research university’s resources with online program flexibility. You’ll learn from faculty who conduct addiction research and maintain clinical practices. The curriculum includes current evidence-based approaches, emerging treatment modalities, and understanding of co-occurring disorders. ASU’s strong alumni network in behavioral health creates connections for clinical placements and employment opportunities.
The university accepts up to 64 transfer credits from community colleges and up to 90 credits total from all sources, helping working professionals with previous college experience finish faster. Transfer credit evaluation happens quickly during the admissions process. If you’ve completed an associate degree, you typically need 2-2.5 years part-time to finish your bachelor’s at ASU Online.
ASU Online provides extensive support for working students, including evening and weekend access to academic advisors, 24/7 technical support, and comprehensive online library resources. Career services offer industry-specific guidance for students entering addiction treatment fields. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance all apply to online programs. Verify current tuition and available degree programs directly with ASU Online, as program offerings expand regularly.
Southern New Hampshire University Online – BA in Psychology: Addictions
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3-4 years part-time (varies by transfer credits and course load)
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Southern New Hampshire University’s BA in Psychology with an Addictions concentration combines psychology foundations with specialized addiction studies. The curriculum covers developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistical analysis—all critical for understanding addiction as a psychological and neurobiological condition. The addictions concentration adds coursework in substance abuse counseling, addiction treatment modalities, family systems in addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders.
SNHU Online built its reputation serving working adults, and the infrastructure shows. Courses run in 8-week terms with new terms starting every 10 weeks, giving you multiple entry points throughout the year. You can take one or two courses per term based on your work schedule and life circumstances. The accelerated term length allows you to make steady progress without overwhelming your capacity to balance work and study.
The program structure accommodates various learning styles with video lectures you can watch on your schedule, discussion boards for peer interaction, and written assignments that develop critical thinking about addiction treatment. Faculty members bring professional experience in addiction counseling, psychology, and social work. They understand the demands on working students and design assignments with practical application in mind.
SNHU accepts up to 90 transfer credits, potentially cutting your time to degree in half if you’ve completed significant previous coursework. The university evaluates transcripts within days and provides a clear degree completion plan showing exactly how many courses you need. For students with associate degrees or substantial college credit, completion in 2-2.5 years part-time is realistic.
Support services include 24/7 online tutoring, academic advisors assigned to each student, career counselors specializing in social services fields, and online library access to psychology and counseling research databases. SNHU’s large online student population means you’ll have peers in similar situations—working professionals balancing education with employment and family responsibilities.
The university’s tuition rates are transparent and competitive for online bachelor’s programs. Payment plans spread costs across terms, and federal financial aid applies fully to online students. SNHU also offers institutional scholarships based on academic performance and works smoothly with employer tuition reimbursement programs. Graduates often pursue peer support specialist roles, case management positions, or continue to master’s programs in clinical counseling. Contact SNHU for current tuition information and to discuss your specific transfer credit situation.
Campbellsville University Online – Degrees in Business, Accounting, and Related Fields
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: Varies by program
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
While Campbellsville University Online primarily focuses on business and accounting degrees, the university offers programs in social work and human services that prepare students for supportive roles in addiction treatment settings. Their online format provides the flexibility working professionals need, with courses designed for asynchronous completion and multiple start dates throughout the year.
Campbellsville’s faith-based perspective integrates Christian principles with professional education. For students planning to work in faith-based recovery programs or who want to incorporate spiritual dimensions into their helping work, this approach provides a unique educational foundation. The university’s focus on service aligns naturally with addiction counseling’s mission of supporting individuals through recovery.
The university accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions and provides personalized degree completion plans. Academic advising, tutoring services, and career support are available to online students with flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals. Financial aid applies to online programs, and the university offers scholarships for students pursuing helping professions.
For specific information about addiction-related degree programs, transfer credit policies, and tuition, contact Campbellsville University Online directly. Their admissions team can explain current program offerings and how they align with addiction counseling career paths in your state.
Capella University – Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Addiction Counseling Specialization
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3.5-4 years part-time (varies by individual pacing)
Accreditation: CACREP-accredited, Higher Learning Commission
Capella’s GuidedPath format for their CACREP-accredited counseling programs provides structure while accommodating working professionals’ schedules. The program offers courses designed for asynchronous participation, meaning you can complete most coursework outside of set class times. The addiction counseling specialization embeds specific training in substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and evidence-based treatment modalities like motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy.
The program prepares you for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with addiction counseling credentials in most states. Clinical requirements include 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours, which you complete at sites near your home—no relocation required. Capella’s support for working students includes 24/7 online library access, career counseling available by appointment outside business hours, and a dedicated faculty advisor throughout your program.
What sets Capella apart for working professionals is the online format’s flexibility combined with CACREP’s rigorous standards. You can balance coursework around your work schedule, accelerating or slowing your pace as life demands change. Financial aid applies to the program, and many employers’ tuition reimbursement policies work smoothly with Capella’s payment structure. Contact Capella directly for current tuition information and to discuss your specific pacing options.
Walden University – Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Addictions Specialization
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3-3.5 years part-time (varies by course load)
Accreditation: CACREP-accredited, Higher Learning Commission
Walden built its reputation serving working adult learners, and it shows in their addiction counseling program structure. Courses typically run in manageable term lengths, allowing you to focus on fewer subjects at once while maintaining work commitments. The addictions specialization requires courses in assessment and treatment of substance use disorders, pharmacology of addictive substances, family systems in addiction, and group counseling techniques.
The program’s practicum and internship requirements (100 and 600 hours, respectively) include support from Walden’s clinical training team in finding placement sites. They maintain relationships with treatment facilities nationwide and can connect you with supervisors who understand the demands of working students. Evening and weekend hours at your clinical site count toward requirements, and Walden’s supervisors conduct check-ins via video conference to accommodate your schedule.
Walden offers multiple start dates throughout the year—you don’t have to wait for the fall semester to begin. This flexibility helps working professionals start when their work schedules permit, rather than creating gaps in education. Academic advisors who specialize in working with adult students provide planning support, allowing you to map out realistic semester loads that won’t overwhelm you when work gets demanding.
The university’s tuition remains competitive among online CACREP programs, and it offers scholarship opportunities specifically for students entering helping professions such as addiction counseling. Payment plans spread costs over the term, and federal financial aid covers online programs just as it would campus-based study. Consult Walden’s website for current tuition rates and payment options.
Adler University – MA in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Addiction Specialization
Format: Online and campus-based options available
Time to Completion: 3-4 years part-time
Accreditation: CACREP-accredited, Higher Learning Commission
Adler University’s social justice orientation brings a unique perspective to addiction counseling education. The program emphasizes understanding addiction within social contexts—poverty, trauma, systemic racism, lack of access to healthcare—rather than viewing it solely as an individual disorder. This framework prepares counselors to advocate for clients and address structural barriers to recovery.
Adler offers multiple program formats to accommodate working professionals, including fully online options and campus-based programs at their Chicago location. Students should verify current format options and any in-person requirements directly with Adler, as program structures may vary by location and specialization. The curriculum integrates training in addressing trauma, which often underlies or co-occurs with substance use disorders. You’ll learn trauma-informed approaches that recognize the role of adverse experiences in addiction development.
Adler’s addiction counseling specialization covers assessment and diagnosis, individual and group counseling for SUDs, family systems approaches, co-occurring disorders, and evidence-based treatments. Clinical training includes practicum and internship hours completed at sites near your home or work. Adler’s strong relationships with community agencies, nonprofit treatment centers, and social service organizations help students find placements aligned with their values and career goals.
Adler provides needs-based scholarships and works with students to maximize federal financial aid and employer tuition assistance. The university’s mission-driven approach means they actively work to make counseling education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds. Contact Adler’s admissions office for detailed information about format options, scheduling, and current tuition rates.
Liberty University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Addictions and Recovery Specialization
Format: Fully online
Time to Completion: 3-4 years part-time
Accreditation: CACREP-accredited, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Liberty University’s online addiction counseling program brings a faith-integrated perspective to clinical training. While the curriculum meets all CACREP standards for clinical mental health counseling with addiction specialization, courses incorporate discussions of spirituality in recovery and the role of faith communities in supporting individuals overcoming addiction. This approach appeals to students planning to work in faith-based treatment facilities or who want to integrate spiritual dimensions into their practice.
The program structure accommodates working professionals with manageable term lengths and multiple start dates throughout the year. Courses include substance abuse counseling theories, addiction pharmacology, group counseling for substance use disorders, assessment and treatment planning, and family therapy for addiction. You’ll learn evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Liberty’s practicum and internship requirements (100 and 600 hours) can be completed at approved sites across the country. The university’s clinical placement team assists in identifying facilities and securing required supervision. Many students complete clinical hours at faith-based treatment centers, community mental health agencies, or private practices. Evening and weekend hours are standard, allowing you to maintain full-time work during clinical training.
The university’s tuition rates are competitive for CACREP-accredited online programs. Military students receive additional tuition discounts, and Liberty offers scholarship opportunities for students pursuing addiction counseling careers. Financial aid is available for online programs, and the university’s systems effectively accommodate employer tuition reimbursement.
Academic support for working students includes online tutoring available seven days a week, career counseling by appointment, and 24/7 library access. Faculty understand the demands on working adult students and design courses with flexible due dates and asynchronous participation requirements. Verify current tuition and program details on Liberty’s website.
Comparing Part-Time Program Options
| Program | Degree Level | Format | Duration (Part-Time) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue University Global | BS in Addictions | Fully Online | 3-4 years | 10-week terms, accepts up to 90 transfer credits, 24/7 support |
| Arizona State University Online | BA/BS in Social & Behavioral Sciences | Fully Online | 3-4 years | 7.5-week sessions, multiple specializations, research university resources |
| Southern New Hampshire University | BA in Psychology: Addictions | Fully Online | 3-4 years | 8-week terms, accepts up to 90 transfer credits, dedicated advisors |
| Campbellsville University Online | Various Social Services Programs | Fully Online | Varies | Faith-based perspective, flexible scheduling, service orientation |
| Capella University | MS-CMHC, Addiction Specialization | Fully Online | 3.5-4 years | GuidedPath format, CACREP-accredited, flexible pacing |
| Walden University | MS-CMHC, Addictions Specialization | Fully Online | 3-3.5 years | CACREP-accredited, multiple start dates, clinical placement support |
| Adler University | MA-Counseling, Addiction Specialization | Online/Campus Options | 3-4 years | CACREP-accredited, social justice focus, trauma-informed |
| Liberty University | MA-CMHC, Addictions and Recovery | Fully Online | 3-4 years | CACREP-accredited, faith-integrated, military discounts |
Note: Tuition varies significantly based on pace of completion, transfer credits, and financial aid. Contact each institution directly for personalized cost estimates using their tuition calculators.
How to Choose the Right Part-Time Program for Your Situation
Assess Your Schedule Constraints
Be honest about your available time and energy. If your job requires frequent travel, fully online programs with asynchronous coursework provide maximum flexibility. If you work predictable hours and crave in-person connection, programs offering optional campus experiences or cohort-based learning might offer the community and hands-on practice you need. Consider your commute, family obligations, and whether you can realistically attend synchronous evening classes or prefer completing work on your own schedule.
Consider Financial Investment and ROI
Part-time programs typically cost the same total amount as full-time tracks—you’re just spreading payments over more years. Calculate the full program cost, including fees, books, and technology requirements. Research average addiction counselor salaries in your region to understand the financial return on your education investment. Don’t choose solely on price; ensure the program fits within your economic reality, considering federal loans, employer assistance, and available scholarships.
Verify State Licensure Alignment
CACREP accreditation ensures your degree meets educational requirements in most states, but specific licensure pathways vary by state. Check your state’s addiction counselor licensing board requirements before enrolling. Verify the program’s coursework covers your state’s required topics (ethics, assessment, treatment planning, specific therapeutic approaches). Confirm the clinical hour requirements match your state’s mandates—typical CACREP programs include 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours, though state licensure boards may require additional supervised hours post-graduation. Some students choose programs in their state specifically to ensure seamless licensure, while others prioritize program quality and navigate state-specific requirements later.
Evaluate Support Services
Working adult students need responsive support when questions arise at 10 PM after work. Look for programs offering evening and weekend access to academic advisors, technical support, and career services. Programs with dedicated working-adult enrollment counselors understand your unique challenges. Strong clinical placement support becomes critical when you need to find practicum and internship sites that accommodate evening and weekend hours.
Check Accreditation Carefully
CACREP accreditation for master’s programs and regional accreditation for all programs are non-negotiable. These credentials ensure curriculum quality, credit transferability, eligibility for federal financial aid, and employer recognition. Be wary of programs offering “accelerated” timelines that seem too good to be true—they may lack proper accreditation. Verify accreditation status directly with CACREP and regional accreditation bodies, not just the school’s website.
Balancing Work, Life, and Part-Time Study
Realistic Time Commitments
Part-time graduate study in addiction counseling typically requires 15-20 hours per week for coursework when taking one to two courses per term. This includes online lectures, readings, discussion participation, and assignments. Clinical practicum and internship hours add another commitment—you’ll need roughly 6-15 hours weekly at your site, depending on how quickly you want to accumulate required hours. Factor in commute time to clinical sites and study time for licensure exams.
Be realistic about busy seasons in your work. Many working students reduce course loads during peak work periods and accelerate during slower seasons. Programs offering multiple start dates and flexible pacing accommodate this reality better than rigid semester schedules.
Employer Support and Tuition Assistance
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs, particularly in healthcare, social services, and education sectors. Research your employer’s policies early and understand requirements—some programs require minimum grades, restrict eligible institutions, or require employment commitments after graduation. Submit required documentation promptly and maintain clear communication with your benefits office throughout your program.
If your employer doesn’t offer tuition benefits, consider whether you can negotiate support based on how the degree benefits your current role or positions you for advancement within the organization. Some students successfully propose pilot programs where their employer covers partial costs in exchange for agreed-upon service time.
Family Considerations
Graduate school while working affects your entire household. Have honest conversations with partners, children, and others as time and energy allow. Create a family schedule showing when you’ll be unavailable for coursework, clinical hours, and studying. Negotiate coverage for your household responsibilities. Many successful students carve out designated study times (Saturday mornings, three weeknight evenings) that everyone respects as off-limits.
Don’t underestimate emotional demands. Addiction counseling coursework and clinical training bring up intense material. Processing client stories, your own experiences with addiction, and the weight of this work requires emotional bandwidth. Build in time for self-care, not just coursework completion.
Self-Care Strategies
Burnout is real for working professionals in graduate programs. Protect sleep, maintain physical activity, and preserve time with people who refuel you. Many addiction counseling programs include content on self-care and professional boundaries—apply these principles to your own life immediately. You can’t pour from an empty cup, whether you’re supporting clients or completing coursework while working full-time.
Consider therapy for yourself during your program. Processing what comes up during training, managing stress, and having a space to discuss challenges without judgment help many students persist through difficult periods. Many programs even require or strongly recommend personal therapy as part of clinical training.
Building a Support Network
Connect with other working students in your program. They understand the unique challenges of balancing employment, education, and personal life. Study groups, informal check-ins, and shared resources help everyone succeed. Online programs often include group discussion forums or video conference study sessions—participate when you can.
Maintain relationships with professors and supervisors who understand your situation. They’ve often worked with hundreds of adult students and can offer practical advice when you’re overwhelmed or discouraged. Don’t suffer in silence when you’re struggling—reach out before minor problems become crises.
Financial Aid and Employer Tuition Assistance
Federal Financial Aid for Part-Time Students
Part-time students qualify for federal financial aid, though loan amounts may be reduced compared to full-time enrollment. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible—October 1 for the following academic year. Many working professionals assume they won’t qualify due to current income, but financial aid considers family size, state of residence, and other factors beyond income alone.
Federal Direct Loans offer the most favorable terms with fixed interest rates, income-driven repayment options, and potential loan forgiveness programs for work in nonprofit or government addiction treatment settings. Private loans typically carry higher interest rates and fewer protections—use them only after exhausting federal options.
Graduate students can typically borrow up to $20,500 annually in Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans under current regulations (note: federal loan policies are subject to change, including new caps taking effect in 2026—verify current limits when applying). This often covers a significant portion of tuition at public universities and moderately priced private programs. Interest accrues during school, but you can make interest-only payments while enrolled to reduce your total repayment amount.
To maintain federal aid eligibility, you must be enrolled at least half-time. Half-time enrollment typically means 5-6 graduate credits per term, though exact requirements vary by institution. Confirm with your school’s financial aid office.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Employers offering tuition assistance typically reimburse $5,000-$10,000 annually, though some companies provide more generous benefits. Common requirements include:
- Maintaining minimum grades (usually B or higher)
- Continuing employment during the reimbursement period
- Service commitment after degree completion (typically 1-2 years)
- Relevance to current role or company business
Submit reimbursement claims promptly with required documentation (paid receipts, transcripts, grades). Track reimbursed amounts carefully—employer-provided tuition assistance above $5,250 annually may be considered taxable income per IRS regulations. Consult a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.
Scholarships Specific to Addiction Counseling
Several organizations offer scholarships for students pursuing addiction counseling careers:
- NAADAC (the Association for Addiction Professionals) awards scholarships to students in counseling programs who demonstrate commitment to addiction treatment
- Many state addiction counseling associations provide smaller scholarships to in-state students
- Individual universities offer scholarships for students in behavioral health programs
- Community foundations in areas heavily affected by addiction often fund scholarships for local students entering treatment fields
Apply for multiple smaller scholarships rather than focusing only on large, highly competitive awards. Several $500-$1,000 scholarships add up and typically require less intensive application processes than full-tuition scholarships.
Managing Education Costs While Working
Create a realistic education budget covering tuition, fees, books, technology, and clinical training expenses (background checks, liability insurance, professional organization memberships, licensure exam fees). Many students underestimate total costs beyond tuition.
Strategies for managing costs:
- Buy used textbooks or rent when possible
- Share textbook costs with study group members
- Use free or low-cost research databases through your university library
- Apply for scholarships even when working full-time (many people assume they won’t qualify)
- Consider whether taking one additional course per year meaningfully accelerates graduation enough to justify the higher semester costs
- Use tax credits like the Lifetime Learning Credit if eligible (provides a credit of 20% of qualified education expenses up to $10,000, for a maximum credit of $2,000 annually)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work full-time while completing an addiction counseling degree part-time?
How long does a part-time addiction counseling program take?
Are part-time programs eligible for financial aid?
Do employers value part-time degrees the same as full-time?
Can I transfer credits from previous education?
What’s the difference between online and hybrid part-time programs?
Will a part-time program prepare me for licensure?
Can I complete clinical hours while working full-time?
Key Takeaways
- Part-time addiction counseling programs allow you to earn credentials while maintaining full-time employment, typically taking 3-4 years to complete a master’s degree compared to 2 years full-time.
- CACREP-accredited programs ensure your degree meets educational requirements for licensure in most states and holds equal value whether completed part-time or full-time.
- Fully online programs provide maximum flexibility with asynchronous coursework, while some programs offer optional campus experiences for skills practice and community building.
- Financial aid, employer tuition assistance, and professional scholarships help working professionals afford graduate education—complete FAFSA early and research all available funding sources.
- Clinical practicum and internship hours (typically 100 and 600 hours, respectively) can be completed evenings and weekends at many treatment facilities, allowing you to fulfill requirements while working full-time.
- Choose programs offering dedicated support for working adults, including evening advising hours, clinical placement assistance, and flexible start dates throughout the year.
- Success requires realistic time management: expect 15-20 hours per week for coursework and clinical hours, and build in a margin for self-care and family time.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Part-time addiction counseling programs make it possible to pursue meaningful work helping others overcome addiction while maintaining the financial stability you need today. Research programs aligned with your schedule, budget, and career goals. Request information from schools, talk to admissions counselors about your situation, and connect with current students to understand their experiences.
The path from working professional to licensed addiction counselor takes commitment and time, but thousands successfully navigate this journey every year. Your personal experience with addiction—whether your own or a loved one’s—positions you to provide empathetic, authentic care. A part-time program gives you the credentials to turn that experience into a professional purpose.