Bachelor in Substance Abuse Counseling

The application deadline for the Sep 2027 intake is May 1, 2027, and tuition fees are 38,110 USD per year.

The Bachelor in Substance Abuse Counseling at the University of St. Francis is for students who want to help people struggling with substance use disorders. This 4-year bachelor's degree program is taught in English and is available to students with a high school diploma.

The curriculum covers topics such as the latest research on substance use disorders, how to assist people and their families, and the best ways to overcome misuse of alcohol and other drugs. Students will develop skills in counseling, case management, and treatment planning, and will have hands-on experience through internships and practicum courses.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as substance abuse counselors, case managers, treatment planners, behavioral health specialists, and mental health counselors. They can work in hospitals, clinics, non-profit organizations, and private practices, helping people and their families overcome substance use disorders.

The University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois, combines a tradition of Franciscan values with contemporary academic programs designed to prepare students for ethical leadership and professional success. Founded in 1920, the university offers a liberal arts foundation alongside a broad range of professional and graduate programs that emphasize service, compassion and community engagement within a supportive campus culture.

With a student population of around 4,000 and an international community, the university prioritizes small class sizes, individualized attention and experiential learning. Programs span multiple disciplines and are structured to integrate academic work with practical experiences, internships and community-focused projects. Faculty mentorship and co-curricular opportunities help students develop both technical competencies and the interpersonal qualities valued by employers.

International students find a welcoming environment grounded in service-oriented values and practical career preparation. The university’s location in Joliet provides proximity to regional employers and cultural amenities while maintaining a close-knit campus atmosphere. Prospective students seeking a values-driven education that balances rigorous academics, community involvement and focused career support will discover a purpose-driven community ready to support academic growth and professional development.