Culturally-Centered Addictions Research Training Certificate

Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff blends a broad academic portfolio with an environment that inspires outdoor learning and applied research. Established in 1899, NAU enrolls nearly 30,000 students, including about 1,400 international learners, and offers roughly 263 undergraduate and graduate programs across liberal arts, STEM, education, and professional fields. The campus combines small-class engagement, accessible faculty, and research-active departments to support student progression and hands-on learning.

NAU emphasizes sustainability and environmental stewardship, leveraging its northern Arizona setting for field-based coursework and research projects focused on water, forest, and climate challenges. Students can participate in faculty-led research, community-engaged initiatives, and experiential learning tied to regional and global issues. Campus life is active, with numerous student organizations, outdoor recreation options, and cultural events that build community and practical skills outside the classroom.

International students will find dedicated advising, orientation programs, and support services to ease academic and cultural transition. NAU's career resources help connect students with internships, research placements, and regional employers to prepare for graduate study or professional roles. With its sustainability focus, research opportunities, and a welcoming campus community, Northern Arizona University is a strong fit for students seeking engaged, place-based learning in a scenic, research-oriented setting.

The Culturally-Centered Addictions Research Training Certificate at Northern Arizona University is a non-degree program that prepares clinicians and doctoral students to work with substance use disorders. It takes one year to complete and includes 15 units of coursework and research experience. The program is taught in English and helps students gain addiction research knowledge and methodological competencies.

The curriculum includes core coursework and a year-long research experience that exposes students to real-world settings in rural and medically underserved areas. Students learn about quantitative and qualitative research methods, culturally-centered evidence-based practices, and how to work with interprofessional teams. They also complete a practice-based research project that helps them apply their skills to real-world problems.

Graduates can pursue careers as addictions researchers, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, or health educators. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or community organizations that focus on substance use disorders. The skills they gain can also be applied to roles in research institutions, universities, or government agencies that address health disparities and social determinants of health.