Programs in Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency Treatment Services (A/CDTSP)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be admitted to online ACDTSP Certificate program in order to take a course in this sequence?
No, you do not need to be admitted to the online program in order to register for courses. You do, however, need to be admitted to the on-campus program prior to registering.
Will I earn college credit for these courses?
No, ACDTSP is for professional development. These courses are non–credit, they are offered through the Division of Continuing, Corporate and Distance Education. You are awarded Continuing Education Units (CEUs), which can be applied toward certification/licensure and continuing education requirements. In addition, many students find that degree-granting programs will accept these educational hours.
Will I receive a grade for my courses?
No, these courses are Pass/Fail.
Will the program lead to certification/licensure?
Once you have successfully completed the requirements of the UMass certificate program you will receive an Alcohol/Chemical Dependency Certificate from the University of Massachusetts Boston. You will also have acquired the educational and training units necessary to sit for certification/licensure exams. The number of additional educational hours you need will depend upon several factors including whether you have credits attained in other educational programs. Certification/licensure exams have varying levels, and each level requires a certain number of educational and work hours. States vary in their requirements and students living outside of Massachusetts should check with their state’s Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Abuse for certification/licensure requirements.
Can the online CEUs be used toward initial certification of the CADAC?
That will depend on the policy of the CADAC board in your state. For instance, the Florida CADAC board does accept online CEUs toward the CADAC credential but the Massachusetts board does not. Nearly all states will accept online CEUs toward re-certification.
Are all of the certificate courses offered online?
Yes.
Can I complete my practicum close to my residence, even out of state?
Yes, students are able to complete the practicum close to their residence.
Do I need approval from the A/CDTSP Program Coordinator for my practicum setting?
Yes. The program coordinator will work with you to help find you a practicum that will meet the needs of both you and the program.
What is the format for the online courses? Are they offered as correspondence courses?
No, faculty require regular contact through weekly verbal chats which are generally offered in the evenings or weekends.
What are the computer requirements and internet connection requirements for online participation?
Check with the DCCE website for computer requirements and internet connection requirements at ccde.umb.edu/dl/
I have never taken an online course, will technical help be available?
Yes, technical help will be available. In addition, your instructors will be available to walk you through the online process.
I haven’t been in school for a long time, I have a full–time job, and I’m a parent. Am I going to be able to manage schoolwork on top of all that?
Most of our students share your description. By far the majority of our students successfully complete the certificate program.
What if I Fail a course or have to drop out for other reasons, can I re–take the course or come back to complete the program at a later time?
Yes, you will need to talk with your instructors and program coordinator, but, in general, students will be allowed to return and complete the program.
How will I get to know my online colleagues, other students?
We recognize the importance of student bonding and sense of belonging that supports our students through this process. The program is conducted as a cohort, or group, so students will know each other well. Many strategies will be available to facilitate student affiliation.
I have heard that Mass Rehab will help pay for this program, is that correct?
Many of the students in the certificate program are receiving financial assistance through the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). Please contact your area office to discuss whether you qualify for financial assistance. If you are a student living outside of Massachusetts, it is likely that you also have a vocational rehabilitation office that assists eligible students complete their education.
After I complete all the requirements of the ACDTSP program, will I be a licensed alcohol and drug counselor?
No. Requirements for alcohol and drug counselor licensure are, perhaps, the most confusing aspect of the addictions field today. Upon completion of the certificate requirements, you will receive a certificate in alcohol and drug counseling from the University of Massachusetts Boston and you will be prepared to take the licensing exam. Completion of the certificate program will provide you with 170 educational hours and 300 practicum hours. In order to obtain the license or CADAC you will need to acquire an additional 100 educational hours. Many of our students enter our program with previously acquired credits in the behavioral sciences. Often these credits can be applied toward the requisite 270 and, therefore, these students are not required to obtain these additional hours in order to obtain a credential. Many other students have an agency contract with us or come to us through the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). Agencies and MRC are provided with group discounts. Students who do not come to us through an agency or MRC and who do need to acquire additional educational hours will be charged additional course fees as of Fall 2007. Requirements vary by state. If you live outside of Massachusetts, please check with your state credentialing boards for the specific requirements. Following completion of the educational/training component, most states require an exam and work experience before awarding the license. For those living within Massachusetts, the following website provides information regarding licensure: www.mass.gov/dph/bsas/licensing/license.htm
I already work at a treatment setting. Is it possible that my employer would pay for this program?
Often employers will pay for professional development courses, especially ones such as this that prepare you for licensure, because it is likely that, in time, licensure will be a requirement of the treatment setting. Ask your supervisor or human resources person if this educational benefit is available within your agency.
Do you have a program brochure you could send out to me?
Yes, please contact the administrative assistant, Reca Quarles, and provide your mailing address: 617-287-7900.