Adelaide University
Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies
- Delivery: Online
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Duration: 12 months
Develop awareness of special populations and ethical considerations in treatment.
Course overview
Build advanced knowledge around substance use and how addiction can be managed in this Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies.
In this part-time, entirely online degree, you’ll explore evidence-based answers to these and many more questions. Learn how drugs affect the body and behaviour - including how drugs activate brain reward pathways and the neurobiology that leads to tolerance, dependence and addiction. Examine factors that can predispose a person towards addiction, including biological, psychological and social circumstances.
You’ll emerge with a specialised skillset, ready to contribute to best practice approaches to managing substance abuse and addiction in your existing professional field.
Key facts
What you will study
To complete the Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies, students must earn 24 units.
- Drug Effects and Biology of Addiction (12 units)
- Pharmacotherapy and other responses to drug problems (12 units)
Entry requirements
To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.
- A completed bachelor's (AQF level 7) or bachelor's honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.
Recognition of Prior Learning
You may be able to get credit for your course based on prior formal, non-formal or informal learning. To apply, you will need to provide supporting documentation outlined by the university. Contact the university for more information.
Outcomes
Career outcomes
Professionals with specialised knowledge of substance use issues and addiction can be found working in a wide range of industries, including:
- Community and Social Services
- Health Communications
- Healthcare
- Law Enforcement and Corrections
- Non-profit Organisations
- Occupational Health Services
- Public Health
- Research
- Training and Development
- Hospitality
Fees and FEE-HELP
Indicative annual fee in 2026: $15,000 (domestic full-fee paying place).
All costs are calculated using current rates and are based on a study load of 24 units (normally four courses) per semester or year.
A student’s annual fee may vary in accordance with:
- The number of courses studied per term.
- The choice of major or specialisation.
- Choice of courses.
- Credit from previous study or work experience.
- Eligibility for government-funded loans.
You may also need to pay the student services and amenities fee.
Student fees shown are subject to change. Contact the university directly to confirm.
FEE-HELP loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying domestic students with the cost of a university course.
