Why Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies?
Understand the development of addiction and support addiction recovery.
Substance abuse is a common issue in today’s world. An estimated 39.5 million people worldwide experience a substance use disorder. Similarly, 1 in 20 Australians have an addiction to substances or problem with substance use (United Nations, 2023; healthdirect, 2023).
The need for skilled professionals with knowledge of evidence-based and compassionate approaches to support people with substance use issues is urgent and spans all sectors that interact with drug and alcohol use.
Whether you’re a medical practitioner, nurse, psychologist, social worker, pharmacist, educator, counsellor or policy writer – you have a vital role to play in supporting addiction recovery.
Overview
Build advanced knowledge around substance use and the ways in which addiction can be managed in our Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies.
What factors make a person more likely to develop a substance use issue? How does long-term drug or alcohol use affect brain pathways, and how is recovery possible? What roles do pharmacotherapies, harm reduction strategies, psychological therapies and education play in facilitating recovery?
In this part-time, completely online degree, you’ll explore evidence-based answers to these and many more questions. Learn how drugs affect the body and behaviour – including how drugs activate brain reward pathways, and the neurobiology that leads to tolerance, dependence and addiction. Examine factors that can predispose a person towards addiction, including biological, psychological and social circumstances.
You’ll emerge with a specialised skillset, ready to contribute to best practice approaches to managing substance abuse and addiction in your existing professional field.
Key features
Study the biological mechanisms behind substance use issues and addiction. - Consider underlying genetic and social factors relevant to substance use and addiction.
- Explore current approaches to substance abuse treatment – from short-term to long-term and community-based management.
- Develop awareness of special populations and ethical considerations in treatment.
- Explore future developments in pharmacotherapies and the treatment field at large.
- Enjoy flexibility with this part-time degree, offered completely online.
What you'll learn
The Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies at Adelaide University has been purpose-built to equip you with the expertise necessary to develop evidence-based compassionate responses to the management of drug and alcohol addiction.
You will take specialised courses that investigate the biological basis of addiction – learning how drugs affect the body and behaviour and the effects of their use. You will unpack the biological, psychological and social factors that can contribute towards somebody developing a substance use disorder. You’ll also explore a range of evidence-based approaches to treatment of addiction including pharmacotherapies, psychological therapies, harm reduction strategies and education.
In total, you’ll complete two core courses:
- Drug effects and biology of addiction
- Pharmacotherapy and other responses to drug problems.
You’ll graduate with an advanced knowledge of substance use issues and the ways in which addiction can be managed.
This degree can be studied mostly online, however it may also have some on-campus and/or in-person requirements you will need to complete for accreditation purposes. This may include in-person intensive classes, workshops or professional placements.
What courses you'll study
Complete 24 units comprising:
- 24 units for all Core courses
Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Drug Effects and Biology of Addiction
|
Course code
PHAR5014
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Pharmacotherapy and other responses to drug problems
|
Course code
PHAR5015
|
Units
12
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Drug Effects and Biology of Addiction
|
Course code
PHAR5014
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Pharmacotherapy and other responses to drug problems
|
Course code
PHAR5015
|
Units
12
|
Career outcomes
You’ll graduate with the knowledge to pursue more specialised addiction treatment roles in your current field.
Maybe you’ll advise on national policy or advance your knowledge further through public health research. As a counsellor, you might apply your knowledge of evidence-based support models to run support groups for at-risk client populations. Perhaps you’re already a social worker and can use your knowledge of harm reduction approaches to encourage safer behaviours and connect clients managing addiction with healthcare services.
Professionals with specialised knowledge of substance use issues and addiction can be found working in a wide range of industries, including:
- Community and social services
- Health communications
- Healthcare
- Law enforcement and corrections
- Non-profit organisations
- Occupational health services
- Public health
- Research
- Training and development
- Hospitality.
Industry trends
In 2021 alone, an estimated 39.5 million people worldwide were suffering from substance use disorders and only 1 in 5 people were receiving treatment (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2023). Likewise, substance use disorders are the third most common mental health disorder among Australian adults. With around 650,000 – or 3% of the population – reporting they experience a substance use disorder (ABS, 2023).
Like many industries, the field of substance use, and addiction studies is constantly changing – driven by new research, technological advancements and shifting public attitudes towards substance use and addiction. Investment in telehealth and mobile health apps is making timely substance use and addiction treatment and associated support more accessible – especially to people in rural, remote or underserved areas. Growing emphasis and understanding of the impact of trauma and social determinants of health is leading to more compassionate and effective treatments for at-risk individuals and communities. Timely and relevant harm reduction initiatives, such as needle and syringe exchange programs, are encouraging safer behaviours and minimising the dangers of substance use in the community.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
