Why Graduate Certificate in International Addiction Studies?
Help create a world free of addiction.
Tackling addiction takes teamwork from many different disciplines. Experts in addiction are needed everywhere, from creating health programs and shaping government decisions to helping people and communities with prevention and support.
Wherever you go, you'll be ready to lead, inspire change, and make a real impact in your community.
Overview
Gain essential knowledge in addiction science while earning credit towards the Master of Science in Addiction Studies.
Our fully online Graduate Certificate in International Addiction Studies is delivered by three top universities: Adelaide University, King’s College London, and Virginia Commonwealth University.
Led by global experts, you'll study three core courses covering addiction's biological, psychosocial, and public health aspects –building a strong foundation for further studies.
Explore the biology of addiction, risk factors, psychosocial treatment approaches and public health strategies. With stackable qualifications, you can start with the graduate certificate and advance at your own pace, progressing to a master’s degree. This program is nested within the existing Master of Science in Addiction Studies and is jointly offered with Virginia Commonwealth University (USA) and King’s College London (UK).
Key features
Learn from world-leading experts in addiction studies. - Explore addiction from the perspectives of pharmacology, psychology, public health, and sociology.
- Study fully online, from anywhere in the world.
- Access extensive online resources and libraries from three top universities.
- Build a global network of professional peers.
- Earn credit towards a Master of Science in Addiction Studies.
What you'll learn
Offered completely online, the Graduate Certificate in International Addiction Studies at Adelaide University gives you the flexibility to fit study around your other commitments.
You’ll complete three core courses covering the biological basis of addiction, evidence-based psychosocial interventions, public health perspectives and approaches:
- Biological Basis of Addiction (taught by Adelaide University).
- Public Health Issues and Approaches to Addiction (taught by Virginia Commonwealth University).
- Treatment of Addiction: Psychosocial Interventions (taught by King’s College London).
In addition to being taught by international experts, you’ll also have access to three world leading universities’ learning resources, including research articles, e-books and addiction studies journals. This collaborative approach means that your understanding won’t just cover addiction studies in Australian contexts; you’ll also get practical insights into what the field looks like in different parts of the world.
You’ll graduate with a strong foundational level of knowledge in addiction science that can be applied in your current professional work.
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
Biological Basis of Addiction
|
Course code
PHAR5016
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Public Health Issues and Approaches to Addiction
|
Course code
PHAR5017
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Treatment of Addiction: Psychosocial Interventions
|
Course code
PHAR5019
|
Units
8
|
Career outcomes
You’ll graduate with the knowledge to pursue more specialised, addiction-focused roles in your current field.
As a counsellor, you may choose to apply your knowledge of evidence-based support models to run support groups, helping individuals impacted by addiction. Maybe 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.
Addiction professionals 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.
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, World Drug Report, 2023).
Like many industries, the field of addiction studies is constantly changing, driven by new research, technological advancements and shifting public attitudes towards addiction and substance use. Investment in telehealth and mobile health apps is making timely addiction treatment and 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 safe injecting rooms, are encouraging safer behaviours and minimising the dangers of drug use in the community.
Studying Addiction studies at Adelaide University will equip you with the knowledge, tools and connections to contribute meaningfully to this evolving field.
Your study experience and support
Studying 100% online with Adelaide University means joining a dynamic community of learners – all supported by dedicated teams committed to your success. From day one to graduation, you’ll have access to comprehensive academic, student and technical support teams to ensure you get the most out of your online learning journey.
Student support services
Need help with enrolments, managing your study load, or setting your academic goals? Our student support team is here to assist. They’re your first point of contact for advice and are available seven days a week, including out-of-hours and on weekends. Get the help you need – when it suits you.
As an online student, you’ll also have access to our specialised on-campus student support services. Whether you’re looking for career advice, health and wellbeing support, international student assistance, accessibility services, or something else, we’ve got you covered. Visit the Support webpage to explore the services available.
Online academic support
From understanding course content to tackling assignments, writing, and referencing, our expert academics are here to guide you. Available seven days a week, they’ll provide personalised support to help you progress through your studies.
Tech support
We’ve got your back when it comes to technology. Our IT support team is available 24/7 to resolve any tech challenges you might face. With fast response times and tailored solutions, we’ll ensure nothing stands in your way. You’ll also enjoy free access to software downloads required for your program.
Study hours
Adelaide University’s 100% online programs offer the flexibility to fit your lifestyle. You can engage with course materials at any time that works for you – there’s no need to log in at set times. To stay on track, we recommend setting aside 10 to 15 hours per week for each course, but you can adapt your schedule and your study load to suit your needs.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are conducted 100% online – so you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or sit an exam. Depending on your program, your assessments might include:
- An industry-relevant project or case study
- An online presentation
- Essays and reports.
