2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees
The most affordable online substance abuse counseling master’s degrees offer a low-cost path to advance your career and support individuals on the path to recovery — whether you’re pursuing licensure or a non-licensure track. These programs focus on developing clinical expertise, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based treatment approaches.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of South Dakota ranks #1 for affordability, offering its online master’s in addiction counseling and prevention for just $7,987 annually.
- Ottawa University Online has a student-to-faculty ratio of just 2:1!
We manually verify all tuition data and ensure that all programs are fully online. For details on how we assess affordability and quality, please view our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Dakota | Vermillion (SD) | $7,987 | |
| Eastern Washington University | Cheney (WA) | $8,540 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $9,225 | |
| Washburn University | Topeka (KS) | $11,124 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $11,300 | |
| Ottawa University Online | Ottawa (KS) | $11,682 | |
| Governors State University | University Park (IL) | $12,576 | |
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa (AL) | $13,200 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $13,612 | |
| Indiana Wesleyan University Online | Marion (IN) | $14,448 | |
| National University | La Jolla (CA) | $14,940 | |
| University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg (KY) | $16,470 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $16,800 |
Overview of Online Master's Degrees in Substance Use Counseling
An online master's program for substance abuse counseling is designed to prepare graduates to assess, counsel, and support individuals grappling with substance use disorders. This involves in-depth training in areas such as psychotherapy, human development, psychopathology, pharmacology, and ethics.
When you enroll in a substance use counseling master's program, you can expect to develop a variety of technical skills, such as the ability to conduct client assessments, create treatment plans, and understand the biochemistry of various substances. Along the way, you'll cultivate essential soft skills like empathy, active listening, and communication. The goal is to enable you to effectively interact with diverse populations, manage crises, and promote healthier lifestyles and coping mechanisms.
The programs often involve a combination of readings, case studies, group projects, and research assignments. For example, you may be asked to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for a hypothetical client, analyze case studies to determine effective therapeutic approaches, and write research papers on current issues and interventions in the field of substance use counseling.
Master's programs, which may require the completion of 30-36 credit hours, often take about three or four years to complete. To be accepted into most accredited master's programs, you'll need to have maintained a fairly high GPA while earning a bachelor's degree. Your bachelor's doesn't necessarily have to be in addiction counseling or a related field, but if not, you may need to take several prerequisite courses before you begin your program.
For more detailed information on the educational requirements for this occupation, visit How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor.
State-Specific Resources and FAQs
Explore more data on substance abuse counseling in your own region. We have important information for every state.
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Common Courses
The curriculum for an online master's degree in substance abuse counseling varies by school. However, most programs include supervised practicum or internship experiences to provide students with real-world counseling experience. The following are some of the courses typically found in a program.
Principles of Addiction and Substance Use Disorders
In this course, students learn the foundational theories and models of addiction, including the physical, psychological, and societal factors contributing to substance use disorders. For some students who hold a bachelor's degree in substance use counseling, this may be a refresher course.
Psychopharmacology
This course delves into the biochemistry of various addictive substances. Coursework explores how drugs affect the brain and behavior and the implications these effects have for treatment.
Counseling Techniques and Therapeutic Interventions
Often using role-playing and group learning activities, this course trains students in evidence-based counseling techniques and therapies. Some of the more common topics include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), which are often used in substance abuse treatment.
Multicultural Counseling
This course emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing cultural differences in counseling, helping students develop the skills to provide effective and sensitive treatment to diverse populations.
Assessment and Treatment Planning
Students learn to conduct comprehensive assessments of clients with substance use disorders, and to develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on these assessments. Coursework often involves case studies to give students an authentic understanding of this process.
Ethical and Legal Issues in Substance Abuse Counseling
Mental health professionals often encounter ethical and legal issues in their work. This course prepares students to navigate these challenges in their professional practice.
If you are just starting out on this career path, visit our list of the best online bachelor's degrees in substance abuse counseling.
Funding an Online Substance Use Counseling Degree
Earning a master's degree is a significant financial investment, but there may be steps you can take to reduce the cost of your graduate education. This checklist may help you make some cost-saving choices:
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Are you willing to earn your degree online? Distance education programs are not for everyone. However, some online degree programs — like those shown above — may cost less overall. Many colleges charge in-state tuition rates and even slightly reduced tuition rates for online students, no matter where they live. Also, as an online learner, you won't have to pay for on-campus room and board or for commuting to and from school.
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Are you willing to attend a public university? National Center for Education Statistics data from the 2020-21 school year indicates that the average tuition and fees were $12,394 for an in-state student attending a public school and $26,621 for a student attending a private school. Opting for a public university could save you thousands of dollars.
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Can you find an affordable place to live? Even if you choose to earn your degree through distance education, you'll still need to pay for housing, food, and other living expenses. Consider moving to an affordable place to live to minimize these costs while you're in school.
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Are you able to work while you're attending grad school? If you're willing to work at a full-time or part-time job to help pay for your college education, you could use your income to offset your expenses. You might need to take fewer courses each semester, but taking additional time to finish your degree with less debt may be worth it. Just be sure to maintain a healthy work-school balance.
Financial Aid
Of course, one of the most effective ways to reduce the cost of a college education is to obtain financial aid. The federal and state government and many schools provide funding for eligible college students. Also, there may be private scholarships available based on a student's financial need, academic record, or other criteria such as your chosen major.
The best types of financial aid are grants, fellowships, and scholarships. In general, they don't ever have to be repaid. However, depending on your circumstances, you may not qualify for enough funding, so you may need to take out a student loan.
Although loans may be your best option, remember that the interest on a federal or private student loan can add a substantial amount of money to your education costs. Know what you're agreeing to before accepting a student loan by using a student loan repayment calculator to calculate the total cost of the loan.
If you're an online learner enrolled in an accredited online degree program, you can apply for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your application will be reviewed, and you'll be notified as to how much aid you're eligible to receive.
Scholarships
Some mental health professional organizations provide funding for master's-level scholarships and fellowships. You must submit a separate application — aside from the FAFSA — to request funding from these sources.
The National Board for Certified Counselor (NBCC) offers a number of graduate fellowships, including one for African American, Native American, Asian, and Hispanic students pursuing master's degrees in addiction counseling. Forty awards of $15,000 are given out annually. Recipients must agree to serve minority communities for two years after graduating.
The Melanie Foundation awards one $2,500 scholarship to any students pursuing a graduate degree in the mental health field at an accredited university in the U.S.
Sponsored by the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC), the William White Scholarship provides one annual $2,000 award to a graduate student in addiction counseling.
Master's students in a select group of APA-accredited counseling programs may be eligible for this annual fellowship of up to $10,000.
To help you research the potential cost of earning a master's degree in this field, we've provided additional tuition data on our list of the best substance abuse counseling master's programs.
What Can You Do With An Online Master's Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling?
The clear career choice for a graduate with a master's in this specialty subject is to become a licensed who works in a private practice. In most states, a master's degree is required to obtain a license to work in any kind of private practice. However, individuals with only a bachelor's degree may be able to obtain a license to work as substance use counselors in hospitals, social service agencies, and outpatient clinics.
Addiction counselors provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with substance addiction. They assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and facilitate counseling sessions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual income for substance use counselors is $53,710 per year and $25.82 per hour. Meanwhile, the demand for professionals in this field is expected to grow by 18% through the end of the decade, which is much faster than average.
The training you receive in a master's degree program may also prepare you for other types of counseling positions, such as behavioral disorder and mental health counselors.
Further Education
After earning your master's degree in addiction counseling, you may decide to seek a doctoral degree in substance use counseling or an affordable PhD in counseling, especially if your professional goals involve conducting original research in the areas of substance misuse and addiction. A doctorate also prepares you for a career in academia, teaching future substance use counselors.
There are also several types and levels of available through the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCCAP). Certification may make you a more marketable job candidate because it shows your level of expertise and commitment to professional development.
Interested in alternatives to a master's in addiction counseling? Learn more by reviewing our lists of the best online MSWs or master's in counseling programs.
FAQs About Online Substance Abuse Counseling Master's Degrees
How Do I Choose a Substance Use Counseling Master's Degree?
When you're choosing an online substance use counseling master's degree, it's essential to consider several important factors. Look for schools that are institutionally accredited to ensure the quality and recognition of the degree. Additionally, if you want to concentrate on a specific aspect of substance use counseling, make sure the school's program offerings align with your career goals. Lastly, consider the school's faculty, online support services, and opportunities for internships or practical experiences.
You'll also want to weigh the pros and cons of attending school online. Some students prefer the flexibility and convenience of online classes, while others favor the traditional classroom experience. Studying online requires a high level of self-motivation and time management.
What Are The Degree Requirements for A Master's in Substance Abuse Counseling?
The requirements for earning a master's degree in substance abuse counseling vary somewhat depending on the school. For example, some programs require the completion of 30-36 credit hours, which may include either a thesis or a capstone project that allows you to demonstrate your knowledge of a specific aspect of substance abuse counseling. Most programs, however, require you to complete a certain number of supervised clinical practice hours, which allow you to gain hands-on experience as a counselor.
Is An Online Substance Use Degree Worth the Cost?
Earning a master's degree in this field can lead to a rewarding career as a licensed, private-practice substance use counselor. You'll spend your days making a positive impact on the lives of those struggling with addiction. Additionally, demand for counselors is expected to grow in the future, which should provide you with ample job opportunities and some career stability.
However, the BLS notes that the current median annual salary for all substance abuse counselors is , just a little more than the median for all occupations. Counselors with master's degrees may be able to command higher salaries, but even the highest paid substance use counselors earn about $89,920. Also, according to the federal data, those working at outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers make more — $51,130 — than those working at residential mental health and substance abuse facilities, who make over $4,000 less per year,
In light of the expense related to earning both a bachelor's and a master's degree, this career path may not offer the most optimal return on your investment. Fortunately, if you're sure this is the right occupation for you, there are ways to reduce the cost of your education by, for example, choosing an affordable online program and applying for financial aid.
Ultimately, only you can determine whether a substance use counseling master's degree is worth it for you based on your personal goals and circumstances.
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