WKU News

The Substance Use Disorder Certificate (SUDC) is designed to prepare individuals for careers in substance use counseling and treatment.

The SUDC is a flexible, stand-alone certificate that provides training for students and professionals across disciplines. It is beneficial to students in sociology, social work, psychology, criminology, pre-med, nursing, and any closely related human service field.

“The SUDC at WKU prepares you for a rewarding career helping others, meets requirements for professional certification and licensure, provides specialized knowledge and skills for effective treatment, and opens up job opportunities in diverse healthcare and community settings,” said Dr. Whitney Harper, associate professor in the WKU Department of Social Work. “This specialization is crucial as substance use disorders are complex health issues, and certified professionals are needed to provide critical support and guide individuals toward recovery.”

Courses in this certificate meet partial (270 hours) education requirements for the state of Kentucky (Kentucky Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselors) certification as a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADCA Level I, CADCA Level II, and CADC). The CADCA Levels I and II require a high school diploma. The CADC designation is a substance use credential for professionals with a bachelor’s degree (in any field).

Upon completion, participants will be prepared for entry-level substance use counseling, including conducting screenings, assessments, making treatment referrals, assisting in group treatment, and facilitating psycho-educational groups.

Enrollment is now open. To learn more about the Substance Use Disorder Certificate (SUDC), visit https://www.wku.edu/chhs/sudc.php.