Addictions Counselling bachelor
University of Lethbridge Campus, Canada
Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling
University of Lethbridge
Addictions Counselling
Program Overview: Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling
The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling at the University of Lethbridge is the only undergraduate Canadian program of its kind. 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 the curriculum approved by the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF).
Students complete two 13-week internships during their studies, gaining valuable clinical experience in local, national, or international placements. Many graduates have found immediate success in the job market because of the hands-on practical experience gained through the program.
Key Program Highlights
- Only undergraduate addictions counselling program of its kind in Canada, with CACCF-approved curriculum
- Two 13-week clinical internships providing hands-on experience in treatment and counselling settings
- Small class sizes with personalized attention from faculty in a supportive learning environment
- Option for a combined five-year BHSc/BA degree majoring in Addictions Counselling and Psychology
Curriculum and Course Modules
The Addictions and Mental Health Counselling curriculum is carefully structured across four years, blending foundational addiction studies with advanced counselling techniques, clinical practice, and research. Students follow a recommended course sequence designed to build skills progressively from introductory concepts to specialized clinical internships.
Introduction to Addiction Studies (ADCS 1020)
3 creditsProvides foundational knowledge of addictive behaviours, the physiology of addiction, and an overview of substance use and concurrent disorders. Students explore the broad etiological contributions to addictions and mental health.
Counselling I: Individual Counselling (ADCS 2050)
3 creditsIntroduces core individual counselling skills and therapeutic techniques used in addiction treatment settings. Students develop competencies in building therapeutic relationships and applying evidence-based interventions.
Assessment of Addictions (ADCS 2275)
3 creditsCovers clinical assessment methods, case conceptualization, and referral processes for addiction and mental health issues. Students learn to evaluate client needs and develop appropriate treatment plans.
Counselling II: Group Counselling (ADCS 2140)
3 creditsFocuses on group counselling theory and practice, equipping students with skills to facilitate therapeutic group sessions for individuals dealing with addiction and mental health challenges.
Counselling III: Family Counselling (ADCS 3130)
3 creditsExamines family systems theory and its application in addiction counselling. Students learn to engage families in the treatment process and address the impact of addiction on family dynamics.
Internship in Addictions Counselling II (ADCS 4050)
15 creditsA 13-week supervised clinical placement where students apply their counselling skills in a professional setting. This capstone experience prepares graduates for immediate entry into the addiction counselling workforce.
Elective and Specialized Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling is open to both Canadian and international applicants for fall and winter terms. All applicants must meet academic prerequisites and demonstrate English language proficiency. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- High School CompletionCompletion of secondary education with qualifications comparable to Canadian high school standards
- Minimum AverageMinimum 65% average across five approved subject courses
- Required SubjectsFive approved courses including English Language Arts and additional academic subjects
- Post-Secondary TransferApplicants with six or more transferable university courses are considered under the transfer route
- Post-Diploma PathwayDiploma holders with a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale may qualify for the post-diploma entry
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- IELTS AcademicMinimum overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL iBTMinimum total score of 86 with at least 20 in each section
- PTE AcademicAccepted with satisfactory scores; contact Uni4Edu for current minimum requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Lethbridge offers several scholarships and bursaries specifically for students in the Addictions Counselling program, as well as general awards for Health Sciences students. Contact Uni4Edu for assistance in identifying and applying for funding opportunities.
Alberta Health Services Addictions Counselling Bursary
CAD 2,500 (disbursed CAD 1,500 first year and CAD 1,000 second year)Four bursaries available specifically for students enrolled in the Addictions Counselling program, providing financial support across two years of study.
Alberta Blue Cross 50th Anniversary Health Sciences Award
CAD 1,250An award for students in Health Sciences programs recognizing academic achievement and commitment to health-related fields of study.
University of Lethbridge International Student Scholarships
Varies by awardA range of merit-based and need-based scholarships available to international students across all programs. Contact Uni4Edu for details on eligibility and application procedures.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Addictions Counselling Graduates
Graduates of the Addictions and Mental Health Counselling program are well-prepared for careers across the continuum of addiction and mental health services, from prevention and health promotion to intervention and treatment. Many graduates find immediate employment due to the extensive clinical experience gained through two internship placements.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Lethbridge is a publicly funded comprehensive academic and research university founded in 1967. It is recognized for its personalized education approach, small class sizes, and strong research output, particularly in health sciences and psychology. The Addictions Counselling program itself holds the distinction of being the only undergraduate program of its kind in Canada, with curriculum approved by the CACCF.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical, Pre-clinical and Health | THE Subject Rankings | 601-800 |
| Psychology | THE Subject Rankings | 501-600 |
| Life Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | 801-1000 |
| Social Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | 801+ |
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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