Advanced Clinical Study of Addiction (GC)

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Clinical Study of Addiction (ACSA) at the University of Lethbridge offers an interdisciplinary online program that delves into addiction research, management, and clinical applications. Designed for professionals in health and social services, policymakers, and researchers, the ACSA program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to address addiction disorders effectively. Through a combination of courses, assessments, and teaching methods, the program prepares graduates for careers in addiction counseling, social work, public health, research, and policymaking.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Clinical Study of Addiction (ACSA) at the University of Lethbridge provides an in-depth study of addictive processes and disorders. Designed for a diverse audience in health and social services, program developers, policymakers, and researchers, this part-time, online program focuses on the latest addiction research.

Objectives:

• Summarize addiction research in the sciences and social sciences
• Evaluate and criticize approaches to managing addiction
• Interpret knowledge of addiction in clinical contexts
• Derive and apply solutions from a knowledge of addiction

Outline:

Course Schedule:

The ACSA program consists of the following courses:

• ACSA 5000 - Addiction and Addictive Disorders (3.00 credit hours)
• ACSA 5004 - Social Ecology of Addiction (3.00 credit hours)
• ACSA 5006 - Biological Bases of Addiction (3.00 credit hours)
• ACSA 5008 - Cognitive Processes of Addiction (3.00 credit hours)

Module Descriptions:

• ACSA 5000 - Addiction and Addictive Disorders: This course explores the nature and extent of addiction, its impact on individuals and society, and current approaches to prevention and treatment.
• ACSA 5004 - Social Ecology of Addiction: This course examines the social and environmental factors that contribute to addiction, including family dynamics, peer influences, and socioeconomic conditions.
• ACSA 5006 - Biological Bases of Addiction: This course investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction, including the role of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors.
• ACSA 5008 - Cognitive Processes of Addiction: This course explores the cognitive processes involved in addiction, including attention, memory, decision-making, and self-control.

Assessment:

Methods:

Assessment in the ACSA program may include:

• Assignments
• Quizzes
• Midterm exams
• Final exams
• Presentations
• Research papers

Criteria:

The assessment criteria will be provided to students in each course syllabus.

Teaching:

Methods:

The ACSA program is delivered online using a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Group work

Faculty:

The ACSA program is taught by experienced faculty in the fields of addiction studies, psychology, and social work.

Unique Approaches:

The ACSA program is unique in its interdisciplinary approach to addiction, drawing on research and theory from multiple disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Careers:

Paths and Opportunities:

The ACSA program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in addiction-related fields, including:

• Addiction counseling
• Social work
• Public health
• Research
• Program development
• Policymaking

Outcomes:

Graduates of the ACSA program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to:

• Assess and diagnose addiction disorders
• Develop and implement effective treatment plans
• Advocate for policies and programs that support addiction prevention and recovery
• Conduct research on addiction-related issues