Union Institute & University to Offer Addiction Studies Specialization

Jan. 4, 2011 - PRLog -- MONTPELIER, VT - Union Institute & University (UI&U), a private, non-profit university with two locations in Vermont, today announced a new addiction studies specialization as part of the psychology and human development concentration of the university’s Bachelor of Arts program. The specialization provides learners with the educational content, credits and 2,000 hours of work experience required for certification by state licensing boards as a substance abuse counselor.

UI&U’s Bachelor of Arts program is designed to attract learners who desire a socially relevant degree and who want to make positive and lasting change in their communities; the addiction studies specialization follows from UI&U’s mission. Today, substance abuse in the U.S. is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a 35 percent increase in nationwide demand for substance abuse counselors.

“The liberal arts focus means that we can go beyond the typical coursework found in most addiction studies programs so that the learners emerge with a deeper and broader understanding of this important issue,” said Ann Stanton, associate dean of the BA Program. “UI&U’s program gives learners a chance to work with faculty who have a high level of experience in the field, to develop their communication skills, and to explore the many aspects of addiction – from its history to how it impacts families and today’s society.”

UI&U’s BA program is a non-traditional, learner-centered program ideal for adult learners who thrive in an individualized study environment with a faculty mentor. Learners may choose from two residency options. Those who live in the New England region or who desire more frequent face-to-face contact may opt for the Weekend Option, which meets five times a term in either Brattleboro or Montpelier, VT; while those at a distance may select the online option where all residencies and studies take place totally online. For more information contact the UI&U  Admissions Office at 888-828-8575 ext. 8500, or email admissions@myunion.edu.

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Union Institute & University is a private, accredited university that has, since 1964, redefined higher education by placing learners at the center of their own education. Union serves more than 2000, self-motivated, socially conscious adults in rigorous faculty- mentored programs without interrupting professional, family, and community commitments. UI&U offers individualized programs of study leading to the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. In addition to its distance learning programs, academic centers are located in Cincinnati (OH), Los Angeles and Sacramento (CA), Miami (FL), and in Montpelier and Brattleboro (VT).