The Advanced AODA is a Program of Study. You must be accepted first to SSA and then by the individual Program of Study. SSA students apply during the winter of their first year.
Curriculum
The coursework for the AODA ATP fits into the larger clinical concentration framework. The program emphasizes theories of substance abuse and social work. Students take clinical intervention courses focusing on the substance abuse aspects of social work direct practice. Other key courses address psychotherapy for the chronically distressed and substance abuse in children.
The curriculum provides a knowledge base and training foundation that assists students to understand clients whose emotional and behavioral problems are complicated by their substance use. The curriculum’s emphasis on client-centered interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, and its orientation around gradual, non-shaming approaches to substance abuse assessment and treatment, is an invaluable set of tools for a student who wishes to pursue a career in social work.
Field Placement
Students in the AODA ATP have field placement opportunities in:
- outpatient and inpatient substance abuse,
- youth addiction,
- hospital-based chemical dependency,
- veterans administration, and
- criminal justice settings and prevention programs.
- Programs serving people who are homeless or who have co-occurring mental health and substance abuse problems.
Career Opportunities
Students who complete the program primarily build careers in direct practice settings and some lead in training and supervisory positions. Others conduct research in government or non-profit settings. Some examples of practice settings include: Addictions treatment and prevention; Service to veterans and military; Youth, criminal and juvenile justice; Homeless populations; Co-occurring disorders; Mental health; and Employee assistance programs.
Contact
Stanley McCracken, PhD
Senior Lecturer
AODA ATP
773.834.3654
NOTE: While some of the required courses may be offered in the evening, no Program of Study can be completed entirely through evening courses and fieldwork.
Child Welfare Witness
Many scholars don’t get an opportunity during their entire career to testify on Capitol Hill. Ashley Lepse has already done so as a Master’s student at SSA.