What You’ll Learn in an Online Addiction Prevention and Treatment Certificate Program

Addiction prevention and treatment professionals play a key role in supporting individuals, families and communities affected by substance use disorders.

An online addiction prevention and treatment certificate program builds practical, job-ready skills to recognize addiction, support recovery and contribute to prevention efforts in a wide range of settings, including community agencies, healthcare, schools, correctional systems and nonprofits.

At its core, an addiction prevention and treatment certificate focuses on understanding substance use disorders as complex conditions that affect physical health, mental health, relationships and communities. Students learn how addiction develops, how it impacts behavior, and why prevention and early intervention matter.

Recognize signs, symptoms and risk factors 

A key focus is learning to identify the signs and symptoms of substance use disorders. Students build a foundation for identifying risk factors and patterns of use that may indicate a need for intervention. This knowledge helps future professionals respond appropriately and connect individuals with the right resources at the right time.

Learn evidence-based prevention and treatment approaches 

Coursework also introduces evidence-based approaches to prevention and treatment. Students explore strategies used in community education, harm reduction, relapse prevention and recovery support. These approaches are grounded in research and best practices, helping students understand what works and why it works when supporting individuals in recovery.

Build ethical, culturally responsive practice 

Ethics and professionalism are central to addiction prevention and treatment education. Students learn about moral decision-making, confidentiality, boundaries and cultural competence. These topics are especially important for professionals working with at-risk populations, where trust and respect are essential.

Strengthen communication and collaboration skills 

Because addiction affects families and support systems, effective communication matters. Students develop interpersonal skills for connecting with individuals and families affected by addiction, supporting recovery goals and collaborating with other professionals in healthcare, social services, criminal justice, and community organizations.

Flexible learning you can apply right away 

Online coursework makes this certificate accessible to working professionals and students balancing multiple responsibilities. The flexible format supports consistent progress while helping students connect learning to real-world contexts.

Career pathways and academic value

An addiction prevention and treatment certificate can support a variety of career goals, including prevention specialist roles, recovery support, case management and community outreach. The certificate can also complement studies or work in psychology, criminal justice, human services, health care or social work.

Why Study Addiction Prevention and Treatment at ODU  

Old Dominion University’s online addiction prevention and treatment certificate is designed to prepare students for meaningful, real-world impact in a field that directly affects people and communities. The program aligns with nationally recognized standards, including Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration guidelines, guaranteeing students gain relevant, up-to-date knowledge grounded in evidence-based practice.

Through ODUGlobal, students benefit from a flexible online format that supports working professionals, career changers and students already pursuing related fields such as psychology, criminal justice, health sciences or human services. Coursework emphasizes practical understanding, ethical accountability and civic impact, helping students develop skills they can apply immediately in professional or volunteer settings.

Students learn from experience faculty who understand the realities of addiction services. The result is a focused credential that prepares students to contribute considerately and responsibly in prevention, treatment and recovery-support roles.