Program is ideal for
Motivated undergraduate and graduate social work students seeking a fulfilling career in the field of substance abuse/misuse prevention or treatment.
- Nazareth undergraduate social work majors and graduate Master of Social Work students can add substance abuse as an area of focus.
- Completing this track fulfills the educational requirements for New York state Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) certification. Nazareth’s CASAC certificate program is approved by New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS).
Career outlook
Social work jobs are expected to grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Having the CASAC credential gives you an additional leg up in the job market. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor jobs are projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What to expect
- You can complete the track within the usual timeline and credit limits for your degree, without extra time or cost.
- Declare your intent to pursue this CASAC track through your academic advisor. (Undergrads, do so by the beginning of your junior year at Nazareth.)
- Complete all social work requirements as well as specific electives. A combination of social work courses required for all social work students and a set of specific social work electives provides the 350 educational hours required by New York State toward CASAC certification.
- The state also requires 4,000 relevant work experience hours to obtain the CASAC. Pursue substance abuse and addiction treatment settings during your field placements, and these hours can be applied toward the CASAC requirement.
About CASAC
Credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselors in New York state can provide diagnostic assessment, evaluation, intervention, referral, and alcoholism and/or substance abuse/misuse counseling for individuals and groups. For more, see the state CASAC webpages.