Our list of the most popular online master’s degree in substance abuse counseling programs features accredited schools ranked by the number of students graduating with this degree.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Liberty University leads with 732 graduates from its online MA in Addictions Counseling, showing a strong demand in this field.
- Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies reports the highest median earnings on our list at $63,467, signaling strong outcomes in clinical and recovery leadership roles. Plus, it's #2 in popularity.
Read our methodology for details on rankings, data sources, and inclusion criteria. We also interviewed Peter Lai, CFO at Engage Wellness, who shared his expert insights on how online students can optimize their experience and evaluate their chosen program before enrolling.
Most Popular Online Master's Degrees in Substance Abuse Counseling
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | 732 | $8,475 | N/A | 75% | |
| Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies | 50 | $25,470 | $63,467 | 89% | |
| Governors State University | 29 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $12,576 | $49,666 | 88% | |
| University of South Dakota | 21 | $7,987 | N/A | 78% | |
| Washburn University | 17 | $11,124 | N/A | 92% | |
| Eastern Washington University | 11 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $8,540 | N/A | 92% | |
| University of Minnesota | 8 | $25,500 | N/A | 93% | |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | 8 | $32,400 | N/A | 96% | |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | 5 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $17,370 | N/A | 98% | |
| Central Michigan University | 4 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $23,790 | N/A | 92% | |
| Assumption University | 4 | $17,000 | N/A | 100% | |
| Ottawa University Online | 3 | $11,682 | N/A | 86% | |
| Union Commonwealth University | 3 | $8,930 | N/A | 100% | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 1 | $13,612 | N/A | 93% | |
| Indiana Wesleyan University Online | 1 | $14,448 | N/A | N/A |
Most Popular Online Master's Degrees in Substance Abuse Counseling - Program Details
- Graduates: 732
- Annual Tuition: $8,475
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 75%
Why we like them: Ranked No. 1 for popularity, Liberty graduated 732 master’s students in addiction counseling last year. This master's is a licensure-forward design that can lead to common certifications, including eligibility for CSAC and the option to meet Virginia’s LSATP education requirements. Liberty also has over 48,000 enrolled online at the graduate level, making it the most popular school on our list as well.
- Graduates: 50
- Annual Tuition: $25,470
- Median Salary: $63,467
- Recommendation: 89%
Why we like them: HBFGS integrates addiction and mental health preparation in a single CACREP-accredited pathway that aligns with Minnesota’s LADC, LPC, and LPCC requirements, so you can pursue dual licensure without stitching together extra certificates. There's a required clinical immersion of 700 supervised hours and the option to intern within HBFGS’s national treatment network.
- Graduates: 29
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $12,576
- Median Salary: $49,666
- Recommendation: 88%
Why we like them: At GSU, you can leverage dual accreditation (NASAC and Illinois’ IAODAPCA), which is a direct pathway to CADC eligibility in the state. And interestingly, there's a Criminal Justice Internship Option that aligns with Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional requirements if you're interested in that sector. Plus, there's also a Peer Recovery Support Specialist training program.
- Graduates: 21
- Annual Tuition: $7,987
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 78%
Why we like them: USD is the only program in the state accredited by NASAC and one of just eight NASAC-accredited addiction master’s programs nationwide, giving you assurance of quality and alignment with national standards. We especially value USD’s internship model with placements across the U.S. and internationally, like New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, and Germany.
- Graduates: 17
- Annual Tuition: $11,124
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: At Washburn, you complete a fully online curriculum while conducting fieldwork in your own community, and faculty align the training to Kansas LMAC requirements while advising you on other states’ pathways. There's also the option to add a Graduate Certificate in Trauma and Recovery with just two additional courses.
- Graduates: 11
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $8,540
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: EWU's NAADAC-approved curriculum helps prepare you for NCAC I/II, Washington’s SUDP credential, and SUDPT entry, reducing licensing friction if Washington is your target market. You can customize through a choice between Spirituality and Addiction or Process Addictions, then document competencies in a culminating professional portfolio.
- Graduates: 8
- Annual Tuition: $25,500
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: UMN’s online master's in addiction counseling program includes an unusually intensive field experience, with a minimum of 880 supervised internship hours built into the degree. The coursework plus internship collectively fulfill Minnesota’s LADC education and internship requirements.
- Graduates: 8
- Annual Tuition: $32,400
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 96%
Why we like them: VCU delivers this degree through the International Program in Addiction Studies, a tri-university collaboration with King’s College London and the University of Adelaide that gives you comparative policy, prevention, treatment, and research perspectives across three continents.
- Graduates: 5
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $17,370
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 98%
Why we like them: TTUHSC has the best review rating from students we've surveyed, earning a 4.63/5 score. Plus, it has the lowest faculty-to-student ratio (of 7 to 1) on our entire list. We also like that the online MS in Addiction Counseling embeds telehealth as a core competency rather than an add-on, positioning you to deliver care across distance from your very first day.
- Graduates: 4
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $23,790
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: At CMU, we value that you're able to deliver real services through the Center for Community Counseling and Development, including remote counseling, before progressing into a practicum and internship where you manage a live caseload and facilitate groups. You work under faculty who all hold counselor licensure and doctoral degrees in counselor education.
- Graduates: 4
- Annual Tuition: $17,000
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 100%
Why we like them: Assumption has two required, five-day on-campus residencies each summer. Otherwise, the online master's in rehabilitation counseling program has a primarily asynchronous online model. You are guaranteed a faculty interview as part of admissions, and we appreciate the capped cohort size of no more than 20 per year that preserves high-touch advising.
- Graduates: 3
- Annual Tuition: $11,682
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 86%
Why we like them: Ottawa has accreditation from the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission for its addiction programs. This master's aligns with the state of Arizona and its requirements for the LASAC credential. We also want to mention the leadership under Dr. Kirk Bowden, a nationally recognized expert and past president of the Association for Addiction Professionals.
- Graduates: 3
- Annual Tuition: $8,930
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 100%
Why we like them: UCU's multi-credential master's in addiction studies online has the option to complement your degree with a fully online Chemical Dependency Counselor Certificate. We appreciate that UCU also maintains a hybrid Clinical Psychology specialization, giving you the option to engage selectively on campus while keeping counseling-focused pathways fully online.
- Graduates: 1
- Annual Tuition: $13,612
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: 93%
Why we like them: ASU's online addiction psychology master's program covers the seven core content areas Arizona required for LASAC/LISAC pathways, and you complete a six-credit supervised practicum plus a six-credit applied project. It's backed by The College’s record of Fulbright, Guggenheim, MacArthur, and Nobel distinctions.
- Graduates: 1
- Annual Tuition: $14,448
- Median Salary: N/A
- Recommendation: N/A
Why we like them: IWU has NASAC accreditation and NAADAC/IAAP Approved Education Provider status. This way, you can pursue NAADAC student membership and APIT certification eligibility. The addiction counseling master's degree online has a 100-hour practicum with specified direct and group hours followed by two 300-hour internships.
CFO Peter Lai on How To Approach Your Online Master’s Program in Substance Use Counseling Like a Long-Term Investment
CFO of Engage Wellness Acton
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"Students should handle their study time through the same approach they use for financial budgeting... [by creating] two different models to evaluate the costs and duration of their education while considering available tuition benefits and their expected time needed to finish.
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Students should dedicate specific time slots each week for reading and methods work and writing activities.
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Students should check their plans every Sunday to adjust their forecasts when their life circumstances change.
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Students should establish a small group of peers and find a mentor who works outside their academic institution. People will support you when you display your progress through dashboards.
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Review the LMS platform to assess actual academic rigor while requesting sample syllabi from the program.
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Students should check for accreditation status and review governance systems that provide clear policies and prompt advisor feedback and method support and detailed information about exam and dissertation milestones.
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Students should use automation tools to handle routine tasks such as reference management and template organization and data processing. Save your focus for thinking."
EXPERT TIP
"Students who feel uncertain about their fit should begin with a single course that costs less to determine their compatibility with the program."
FAQs About Master's in Substance Use Counseling Degrees
How Much Do Substance Use Counselors Make?
The BLS reports that substance use counselors earn median annual wages of , as of May 2024. These counselors earn more in hospitals — $61,930 — than any other setting.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Substance Use Counseling Master's Degree?
Most master's degrees in substance use counseling take two years to finish with a full-time schedule. Many programs feature part-time options catering to working students that may last up to three years.
Can I Get a Substance Use Counseling Master's Degree Online?
Yes, you can. There are many substance use counseling degrees online with completely remote coursework, including those from the schools we listed at the top of this page. But all accredited programs require in-person clinical internships under the supervision of a licensed counselor. As an online student, you can arrange to work your clinical hours at a facility close to your home if the school is far away.
You can also check out our college planning resources if you're still deciding what to study, considering on-campus versus online programs, or figuring out how to apply for a degree. Once you know more, read through our Guide to Starting Your Online Education for help through the process.
What's the Difference Between Addiction Counseling and Substance Use Counseling?
Substance use counselors are trained to treat dependency to chemical substances such as drugs and alcohol. Addiction counselors may treat a broader range of psychological addictions in addition to substances, such as sex addiction or gambling addiction.
What Is a Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling Degree?
An online master's degree substance abuse counseling offers a flexible path for individuals aiming to advance their expertise in addiction treatment. These programs equip you to assess, diagnose, and treat substance use disorders. Coursework dives into psychology, counseling techniques, and ethics, preparing you for licensure and leadership roles in clinical settings.
A master's degree in substance abuse counseling is an advanced credential for students who want to become substance use counselors or further their current careers in the field. Faculty teach students to listen to and advise patients from diverse backgrounds with a range of addictions. Students also study biochemistry and pharmacology to help understand the physical effects of substances.
Most substance abuse master's degrees have a general curriculum, but others feature concentrations in specialties such as group therapy, child and adolescent counseling, or mental health law.
There's no universally recognized accreditor for substance use counseling programs. The (NASAC) does review some master's programs, but this is a fairly small organization whose stamp of approval might not affect your marketability much. Keep in mind that you should only apply to institutionally accredited schools, though.
Language is always evolving in the substance use counseling career field. Many practitioners find the word "abuse" to be judgmental and prefer the terms "substance use counseling" or "addiction counseling." We only use the term "substance abuse" on this page when referring to degree programs, many of which still carry this language.
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling?
Most master's degrees in substance abuse counseling have 30-36 credit hours of required coursework. This often takes two years to complete with a full-time schedule or three years with a part-time course load.
All accredited master's programs include many hours of field experience that will be required to earn a license in your state. The (ATTCN) has details about licensure requirements in each state.
You need a bachelor's degree to apply for a master's degree. Your undergraduate program doesn't need to in substance use counseling — candidates come from a variety of educational backgrounds. You'll usually apply to online programs between November and February for the following year's autumn term.
Your application will typically include official transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA, along with letters of recommendation, a personal statement on your career goals, a resume, and GRE scores.
What Courses Are Included in a Substance Abuse Counseling Master’s Program?
Substance use counseling master's degrees usually have similar curricula. Classes cover basic knowledge and skills needed in the addiction counseling field while leaving space for advanced topics in research and leadership.
We've given some examples of common courses below. If your program has a concentration, you'll typically take two or three electives in that focus area.
- Addiction and Public Policy: Students learn the history and current landscape of government responses to substance use problems. Topics may cover federal versus state and local law, incarceration policies, and targeted interventions for rural and urban populations.
- Clinical Supervision: This course seeks to teach leadership skills used to manage a team of counselors. Faculty may discuss the theory of clinical supervision, HR law, record keeping, and behavioral motivation.
- Ethics in Addictions Counseling: This class examines ethical theories and how they've been embedded in counseling practice. Common topics include privacy, duty of care, involuntary commitment, and concerns about online counseling.
- Maintenance and Relapse: Enrollees study different models of sobriety maintenance and relapse prevention in this course. Professors often cover sociocultural triggers, behavior modification techniques, public health, and risk-informed decision-making.
What Specializations Are Available in Graduate Substance Abuse Counseling?
It's fairly common to specialize your practice within the substance use counseling field. For example, you might work with certain populations, such as adolescents or older adults. You might also come to specialize in treating addiction to certain substances, such as opioids or alcohol. Many bachelor's degrees in substance abuse counseling don't leave room for specialization, so you might use your master's degree as an opportunity to focus on a specialty.
Still, you may be intrigued by counseling but unsure about treating substance use exclusively. You might find one of the following counseling specializations more appealing.
Child and Adolescent Counseling
Young people requiring counseling need people who are trained in the mental development of children and adolescents. These counselors work to establish trust with their young clients and understand their home, social, and school environments.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
These counselors assess and treat individuals of all ages for mental health concerns that include anxiety, depression, and grief. All states require mental health counselors to hold an active license. This takes at least a bachelor's degree in counseling to earn, and some states require a master's in counseling.
Marriage and Family Counseling
This form of counseling treats the concerns of married couples, long-term partners, and families living in the same households. A master's degree in marriage and family therapy is necessary to become a licensed marriage and family therapist who can perform this kind of counseling.
Rehabilitation Counseling
Rehabilitation counselors work with clients adjusting to life-changing illnesses or injuries. They need a master's degree to practice, along with a license in some states.
School Counseling
School counselors help students at K-12 schools with learning, behavioral, and mental health issues. These counselors must hold a master's degree in school counseling to earn state licensure.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling Degree?
Further Education
An accredited master's degree is enough qualification for most substance use counseling jobs. But some roles might call for an even more advanced or specialized credential. Keep reading to learn about professional certificates and doctorates in this field.
- Graduate Certificate: Certificate programs are short training opportunities for licensed counselors who want an extra credential in a focused area of practice. For example, a substance use counselor may earn a certificate in crisis counseling or lifespan mental development to fill out their clinical toolkit.
- Doctoral Degree: A doctorate in substance abuse counseling is generally only needed if you want to teach at the college level and conduct original research. Most doctorates take an average of seven-and-a-half years to complete because of the large amount of research needed to write a dissertation.
Substance Use Counseling Careers
Most master's graduates in substance abuse counseling go on to become substance use counselors. After all, this is an advanced degree in a relatively narrow specialty. Substance use counselors typically need a state license to practice because of the responsibility they have to care for vulnerable people. Beyond basic licensure, you might study for a certification in substance abuse counseling, which may make you more competitive in the job market.
You might also use your clinical and research skills to fill non-counseling roles in management, policy, and healthcare. For example, you may be a good fit for a career as a health education specialist, a social or community service manager, or a health services manager.
See our list of the best online substance use counseling degrees based on popularity among online students.
How Can You Pay for a Master’s in Substance Abuse Counseling?
A master's degree is a major financial commitment on top of any you may already have from college. It's worth finding and applying for all the financial aid you can. Need-based grants and merit- and need-based scholarships are ideal because you don't need to repay them. You might also qualify for a if you agree to work a particular job while in school.
Most graduate students take out at least some loans to help pay for their programs. Our helpful might help you compare loan offers as you choose between financing options.
Review our list of the if low tuition is a primary concern.
Student Reviews of Online Substance Abuse Counseling Programs
I got both my Bachelor's and Master's in Addiction Psychology from Aspen University. Overall, my experience was good with most professors being knowledgeable and kind. Furthermore, Aspen charges substantially less than other colleges allowing a student to get a degree, even a Master's, and not be drowning in debt. My issue with the program was the final proctored exam for my Master's. All other proctored exams were either done at a local college or during Covid they were online with a Word document,... Read More
Review Date: 6/25/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This was absolutely an incredible experience. I was challenged by professors who are experts in the flied and procured employment in the middle of my Internship. This program is legitimate and teaches everything you need to know in a clinical setting for substance use. It has set me up for full licensure (LAC) in the state of Colorado. I've been a therapist for one month and am grateful to GCU for giving me this opportunity. You can't go wrong getting this degree!
Review Date: 10/2/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am just beginning my education at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. I have recently finished the orientation course and am VERY impressed with the attention to teaching in various formats at varying difficulty levels. The Professors appear to take a genuine interest in how you learn best as well as how well prepared you are for the program. I have already recommended others to look into this program!
Review Date: 3/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am in my 7th semester at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School. I absolutely love this school! Everyone from the professors to admissions to recruiters are amazing, helpful, and kind. I find myself bragging about my school often because I feel to blessed to be part of such an incredible program. My co-workers joke that I am a recruiter because I cannot say enough about the incredible experience I have had. This is decision you will not regret!
Review Date: 1/28/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am a 4th semester full-time student in the IR COD program at the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. My experience thus far has exceeded my expectations, and I would highly recommend this program to all who are seeking a high quality online Masters degree in addiction counseling. With its emphasis on dual diagnosis and integrated treatment, I chose this program because I believe that it offers among the broadest spectrum of potential licensing applications of any related degree... Read More
Review Date: 1/30/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This school is different from others in that you are taught to challenge literature and interpret it in your own way. The knowledge and experience of the professors is unbelievably vast. The professors empathy and willingness to work with you has given me a a desire to learn. I have not graduated yet but am grateful for every semester at this school. I have appreciated the warmth and caring demeanor of the schools staff. Its nice attending an institution where the staff want to see you succeed and... Read More
Review Date: 3/3/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am currently enrolled in the Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders program at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. I am more than satisfied with the quality of the education and instruction of the staff. As a student with no prior experience as a counselor, this program has provided me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work with a broad range of populations. From the application process, to enrollment and throughout each course, HBFGSAS has provided exemplary... Read More
Review Date: 2/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am in my third full-time semester of Hazelden Betty Ford's Integrated Recovery for Co-Occurring Disorders program and I have very impressed, both the with the quality of education provided by instructors and in the interaction I have had with peers. As a former alcohol and drug counselor pursuing mental health licensure, I have been delighted by the integration of course material on both mental health and substance use disorders and their treatment. I would recommend this program to others.
Review Date: 6/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
All the awful reviews are true. anyone interested in class action suit? 95.00 per class to rent an ebook (whether you need it or not. Disgruntled field coordinators...Emphasis on papers rather than knowledge. Practicum sites are not interested in GCU students. Obtaining practicum site is tedious and is basically brushed off by the school. Pick another school where one get his/her money's worth
Review Date: 5/31/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Governors State University is a great college to attend because I have earned my Bachelor degree in Psychology there as well as the Professors are excellent instruction that taught me everything I need to know to succeed in my career goal. I recommend Governors State University to everybody when need excellent education.
Review Date: 3/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The faculty is absolutely amazing. They offer personal insight and professionalism in everything they do in the classroom. Student base is varied and this also gives an added perspective to learning. Student advisor and financial staff are second to none. I have been offered two positions based on my academics and school reputation. This absolutely is the best place to further ones education.
Review Date: 3/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely love this school. Since being accepted into this school; and gaining an Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees I am looking forward to my Graduates Degree in Business. This is a Christian school, which means a great deal to me. The curriculum is integrated with biblical principles which aids in my ministry as a preacher. It is an honor to say that I am a Ohio Christian University graduate.
Review Date: 2/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is an excellent program for those that already have the classroom experience. You can pace yourself, the feedback is great, and they respond quickly to inquiries. Aspen also accepts transfer credits from more than 10 years ago which no other online program or brick and mortar school will. This is especially helpful for those of us that had to leave school and can't afford to start again from scratch. The busy person will love it because the work is there for you when you have time for it. The... Read More
Review Date: 4/4/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Overall, my experience at GCU was very positive. Being enrolled in a Master's level program online requires that you self-regulate and self-motivate. This worked perfectly with my work schedule and I am so happy I chose GCU. The professors are knowledgeable and the counselors they provide you truly ensure you know what you're doing and want to help you stay on track. I always felt comfortable speaking with my counselor over the phone and he helped me to become comfortable with the online format and... Read More
Review Date: 12/12/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college is a good one and its on-line program in addictions counseling is impeccable. But financial assistance and awarding of such needs to be instituted. As most know most graduate programs have no financial aid awarded so I had to finance my own education and now I'm paying for it,,, literally. So I recommend that graduate programs pioneer new financial endeavors by instituting non-loan but scholarship based funding.
Review Date: 6/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Liberty Online is a great way to obtain a graduate degree. The professors are always available when you need help. They really want you to succeed! I'm currently working toward a masters degree in Addiction Counseling and I'm learning so much from the professors and other students too. Also, some of the courses provide the textbooks online for you, right from your blackboard, and this really helps with the cost of books.
Review Date: 9/6/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UCO is a top choice pick for anyone searching for an associate's or bachelor's degree at an affordable price. The campus is situated in the middle of a bustling, growing suburb, yet is quiet and picturesque. The national award winning programs are abundant and eclectic and it would difficult not to find a major that would fit anyone's needs. I would recommend to all my friends and family interested in pursuing an advanced degree.
Review Date: 2/14/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My college is located at Edmond Oklahoma, its one of the best schools in Oklahoma, I believe it is the best in substance abuse studies, it has some great lectures who pay attention to student when after they need their help. The environment is conducive for learning, and their library has enough books for research and for project, and thesis writing.
Review Date: 5/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UCB extension offers a unique program into substance abuse counseling. With there small class sizes, engaging instructors and throughout scientific- practitioner approach teaching, I feel immensely prepared as a counselor, educator and whatever lays ahead.
Review Date: 12/14/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes