Addiction Studies Vermillion Campus and Online
The Addiction Studies (ADS) Department offers a Bachelor of Science Degree which is unique and innovative in that it is one of only a few four-year degrees of its kind in the region. This model program positively impacts one of the nation’s major health issues, alcohol and other drugs. Alcohol/other drugs appear to affect every culture, facet and discipline in life. Theoretical knowledge regarding the nature, etiology, prevention, and treatment of alcohol/other drug issues provides students with a multidisciplinary approach for career opportunities. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through practical applications of knowledge gained. Graduates of the degree will be eligible for addiction/prevention credentialing through the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals (SDBAPP). Participants should contact their state chemical dependency certifying board to assure courses meet requirements for certification. Requirements may differ from state to state. For details regarding South Dakota’s certifying standards, please refer to the SDBAPP manual.
The ADS Department is accredited through the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission.
The ADS curriculum is fully sanctioned by the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals.
Admission: ADS majors of sophomore standing (a minimum of 32 total semester hours) must apply for formal admission to the major. Minimum admission requirements are: completion of ADS 116, ADS 117, ADS 220 and ADS 222 with at least the grade of “C” and a 2.5 overall grade point average. A successful criminal background check is also required for admission into the major and must be completed and approved by the Health Sciences Background Check Committee while taking the ADS 222 course. Health Science majors need to have health insurance.
No credit hours may be awarded for “life experiences” toward the ADS major.
Please contact for the department for further details on the Admissions Process, 605-677-5386.
45 Major Hours, 120 Degree Hours
- ADS core courses (30 credit hours)
- Specialization (6 credit hours)
- Electives (9 credit hours)
The ADS Department requires a grade of “C” or higher in all courses that are completed for the ADS Major.
