PhD in Addiction Science

A doctoral program in Addiction Science at SAHMYOOK UNIVERSITY examines the causes, effects, and treatment of substance use and behavioral addiction, drawing on psychology, neuroscience, public health, and counseling theory. Students in this discipline study how addiction develops, the biological and psychological mechanisms involved, and the design and evaluation of prevention and treatment programs for individuals and communities affected by substance use or compulsive behaviors. At the doctoral level, the program moves toward independent research, requiring candidates to investigate a specific question in addiction science and to present original findings in a dissertation supervised by faculty in the field. Graduates typically pursue careers as university faculty, addiction researchers, clinical counselors, or specialists within public health agencies, treatment centers, and organizations focused on substance use prevention and policy. The research and clinical assessment skills developed through an addiction science doctorate are also valuable in community health program design and mental health policy work. This program is delivered as a PhD with a duration of 5 semesters, and intakes are offered in March and September. It is based in Nowon-gu, South Korea, and instruction is conducted in English, allowing international students to pursue advanced research into addiction and behavioral health without requiring Korean language proficiency. Doctoral candidates typically combine coursework in addiction theory and treatment methods with independent research, culminating in a dissertation defense before a faculty committee. Applicants generally hold a master's degree in psychology, public health, counseling, or a related field and should be prepared for sustained, independent research into the causes and treatment of addiction.