Addictions and Mental Health Counselling bachelor
University of Lethbridge Campus, Canada
Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling
University of Lethbridge
Addictions and Mental Health Counselling
Program Overview: Addictions and Mental Health Counselling
The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling at the University of Lethbridge is the only undergraduate program of its kind in Canada. It equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed for roles in treatment, prevention, and health promotion wherever addiction affects people's lives.
The program focuses on a range of addictive behaviours and intervention strategies, including substance abuse, problem gambling, and sexual or eating disorders. It includes a thorough study of current issues in addictions and intensive training in counselling skills, with a curriculum approved by the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF).
Students complete two 13-week internships during the program, gaining valuable clinical experience in local, national, or international placements. Many graduates find immediate success in the job market thanks to the hands-on practical experience integrated throughout their studies.
Key Program Highlights
- Only undergraduate Addictions and Mental Health Counselling program of its kind in Canada
- Curriculum approved by the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF)
- Two 13-week clinical internships providing real-world counselling experience
- Option for a combined five-year BHSc/BA degree with a Psychology major
Curriculum and Modules
The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling features a structured curriculum that integrates theoretical foundations with practical counselling skills. Students progress through core health sciences courses, specialized addictions coursework, and supervised clinical placements designed to prepare them for professional practice.
Introduces students to the physiology and process of addictions, including substance use, concurrent disorders, and mental health. Covers broad etiological contributions to addictions and mental health conditions.
Develops practical skills in counselling interventions with individuals, groups, and families. Focuses on treating addiction and mental health issues using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Builds competencies in clinical assessment, case conceptualization, referrals, and treatment planning for addiction and mental health issues in diverse clinical settings.
Explores the impacts of traumas and trauma responses in people's lives. Prepares students to work in trauma-informed capacities to create interpersonal safety and facilitate change.
Focuses on effective outreach, community development, and health promotion at the mezzo and macro levels, including understanding the policy environment surrounding addiction and mental health.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling is competitive and enrolment is limited. Applicants must meet both academic and language proficiency requirements. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- High School AverageMinimum 65% average across five designated Grade 12 courses
- Required SubjectsBiology 30 and Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 (or equivalents)
- Spoken English ProficiencyMust meet the Spoken English Language Proficiency (SELP) requirement
- Post-Secondary ApplicantsMinimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 on the University of Lethbridge 4.00 scale
- Post-Diploma ApplicantsMinimum diploma GPA of 3.00 on the University of Lethbridge 4.00 scale
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0, with minimum 6.0 in each band
- TOEFL iBTMinimum total score of 80, with minimums of 16 in Listening, Reading, Speaking and 18 in Writing
- PTE AcademicMinimum overall score of 54
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Lethbridge offers various scholarships and bursaries to support both domestic and international students. Funding opportunities are available at all levels of study, and Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for the awards most relevant to your profile.
International Students Entrance Scholarship
From CAD 1,000Available to international visa students entering any undergraduate degree program at the University of Lethbridge. Requires a minimum 80% admission average and full-time enrolment. Students are automatically considered based on their completed general application.
Alberta Health Services Addictions Counselling Bursary
CAD 2,500 (disbursed CAD 1,500 first year and CAD 1,000 second year)Four bursaries specifically designated for students in the Addictions and Mental Health Counselling program. Funding is disbursed across two academic years to support ongoing studies in the field.
Alberta Blue Cross 50th Anniversary Health Sciences Award
CAD 1,250Awarded to students in the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate academic merit. This award recognizes outstanding achievement and commitment to health sciences education at the University of Lethbridge.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Addictions and Mental Health Counselling program are well-prepared for rewarding careers across diverse healthcare and community settings. The program's two clinical internships and CACCF-approved curriculum give graduates a competitive advantage, with many finding immediate employment upon completion.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Lethbridge is recognized as one of Canada's leading comprehensive universities, with particular strengths in health sciences, psychology, and liberal education. The university is home to advanced research facilities including the Science Commons and the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology | THE Subject Rankings | 401-500 |
| Clinical and Health | THE Subject Rankings | 601-800 |
| Life Sciences and Medicine | THE Subject Rankings | 401-500 |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS Subject Rankings | 601-650 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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