Bachelor of Science Substance Use & Treatment
Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Substance Use & Treatment (BSSUT) uses a multidisciplinary approach to understand the biological, psychological, and social aspects of substance use disorders and related behaviors. Assessment and treatment methods are based on evidence-informed practices to enable students and future professionals to understand and treat individuals, families, groups, and communities.
The BSSUT degree plan is designed to prepare you for a career in substance use treatment or to lay the foundation for you to pursue a graduate degree in a related field. We have several options for you in completing your degree, including both face to face and online options.
Requirements for a BSSUT Degree
| Courses Required for Transition to the BSSUT Major | ||
| SUT 3300 | STUDENT SUCCESS & PROFESSIONALISM IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT | 3 |
| SOCW 3305 | SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE I | 3 |
| SOCW 3307 | DIVERSE POPULATIONS | 3 |
| SUT 3315 | INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS | 3 |
| General Education Requirements | ||
| ENGL 1301 | RHETORIC AND COMPOSITION I | 3 |
| ENGL 1302 | RHETORIC AND COMPOSITION II | 3 |
| MATH 1301 | CONTEMPORARY MATHEMATICS (Or other Math course approved for Math Core) | 3 |
| MATH 1308 | ELEMENTARY STATISTICAL ANALYSIS (or other statistics course approved by Director of Undergraduate Programs) | 3 |
| POLS 2311 | GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES | 3 |
| POLS 2312 | STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT | 3 |
| HIST 1301 | HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES TO 1865 | 3 |
| HIST 1302 | HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 1865 TO PRESENT | 3 |
| SOCW 2302 | LIFE SPAN DEVELOPMENT AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR | 3 |
| PSYC 1315 | INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY | 3 |
| 3 hours Language, Philosophy and Culture | 3 | |
| 6 hours of Science preferably from the following list: BIOL 1333, BIOL 1334, BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442, BIOL 2457, BIOL 2458, CHEM 1345, CHEM 1346, CHEM 1451, GEOL 1330 | 6 | |
| 3 hours Creative Arts | 3 | |
| Professional Courses | ||
| SOCW 3301 | THEORIES OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR | 3 |
| PSYC 3318 | ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY | 3 |
| or SUT 3309 | SUT PRACTIC II | |
| ECON 2337 | ECONOMICS OF SOCIAL ISSUES | 3 |
| or SUT 3303 | SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY AND SERVICES | |
| SUT 3318 | SCREENING, ASSESSMENT, & ENGAGEMENT | 3 |
| PSYC 3303 | DRUGS AND BEHAVIOR | 3 |
| or SUT 4320 | SOCIAL WORK & ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOR | |
| SUT 3319 | TREATMENT PLANNING, COLLABORATION & REFERRAL | 3 |
| SUT 3321 | SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT | 3 |
| SUT 3322 | PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY | 3 |
| SOCW 4344 | HEALTH INSURANCE AND ACCESS TO CARE | 3 |
| SOCW 3308 | SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH METHODS | 3 |
| Students will take the following Field and Seminar courses concurrently: | ||
| SOCW 4451 & SOCW 4551 | SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR I and SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION I | 9 |
| SOCW 4452 & SOCW 4552 | SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR II and SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION II | 9 |
| Electives sufficient to complete the 120 hours required for the degree 1 | 18 | |
| Recommendations: African American Studies Minor, Disability Studies Minor, Diversity Studies Minor or Certificate, Mexican American Studies Minor, Psychology Minor, Public Health Minor, Social Justice and Social Welfare Minor, Sociology Minor, Spanish Minor, Women’s and Gender Studies Minor | ||
| Total Hours | 120 | |
- 1
No more than four hours of activity (EXSA/DNCA) can be used toward a degree for either hours or GPA.
Field Work Requirements
The BSSUT Program requires two consecutive semesters (split placement) or one full semester (block placement) of field experience in a single agency focused on substance use disorder treatment. Once necessary pre-requisites are complete and students have a 2.25 or better GPA, students enroll in the field courses (SUT 4951 Field Instruction and Seminar I, first semester; SUT 4952 Field Instruction and Seminar II, second semester; or SUT 4955 AND 4956 to complete Field Work in one semester [AKA Block]) and complete 240 clock hours per semester in their assigned agency. Field placements are arranged early in the preceding semester by applying through the field office. Students should consult with a BSSUT academic advisor to ensure completion of pre-requisites for field.
Courses
SUT 1331. PROFESSIONALISM IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Equips students with skills and resources to prepare for academic and professional success in a substance use treatment career. Empowers diverse students to identify their individual needs, reflect on opportunities for growth, determine what resources and self-care strategies are appropriate, recognize the faculty role in their development, and formulate a plan for an actively engaged and enriched experience from campus to career. Each class section has a Peer Academic Leader (PAL), who are students who have already taken the course and assist as a discussion leader for the class under the supervision of the instructor. This course is reserved exclusively for students planning to with a Bachelor of Science in Substance Use & Treatment (e.g., SUT-Intended status) who are freshmen; this will be taken concurrently with UNIV 1131. This course or SUT 3300 is required for admission to the BSSUT major.
SUT 1350. SPECIAL ISSUES IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Relevant substance use treatment topics generated and explored in depth according to student and professional needs. The topic will be determined prior to registration.
SUT 2350. SPECIAL ISSUES IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Relevant substance use treatment topics generated and explored in depth according to student and professional needs. The topic will be determined prior to registration.
SUT 3300. STUDENT SUCCESS & PROFESSIONALISM IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Equips students with skills and resources to prepare for academic and professional success in a substance use treatment career. Empowers diverse students to identify their individual needs, reflect on opportunities for growth, determine what resources and self-care strategies are appropriate, recognize the faculty role in their development, and formulate a plan for an actively engaged and enriched experience from campus to career. Each class section has a Peer Academic Leader (PAL), who are students who have already taken the course and assist as a discussion leader for the class under the supervision of the instructor. This course is reserved exclusively for students planning to major with a Bachelor of Science in Substance Use & Treatment (e.g., SUT-Intended status) who have changed majors or have transferred from another institution; this fulfills the university requirement for UNIV 1131. This course or SUT 1231 is required for admission to the BSSUT major.
SUT 3303. SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY AND SERVICES. 3 Hours.
Examines how social goals are met by social welfare institutions. Conceptual schemes are developed for analyzing the structure of social welfare institutions and evaluating social welfare sub-systems. The social services profession is also examined in the context of the evolution and function of the contemporary American social welfare system. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar II (SOCW 4952).
SUT 3305. SUT WORK PRACTICE I INTERVIEWING SKILLS. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to promote a critical evaluation of the history and philosophy of SUT practice skills and its value base as well as teach basic practice concepts including cultural humility, interviewing, communication, and problem-solving to use with diverse individuals, families, and groups across practice settings. Students will be able to make connections between substance abuse's historical roots and present-day intervention practices and demonstrate understanding of what they bring to practice as individuals and how that may support or hinder their work with diverse individuals, families, and groups. This course is required for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Substance Use Treatment (BSSUT) program.
SUT 3308. SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH METHODS. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills to understand, use, and conduct research to advance the knowledge base of the social work profession and assess the effectiveness of social work interventions in generalist social work practice. The course addresses elements of the research process, quantitative and qualitative methods, research ethics, and approaches to data analysis. Particular attention will be given to the role of research with populations-at-risk, social and economic justice, and cultural diversity. Prerequisite: SUT 1231 or SOCW 1231, or SOCW 3300 or SUT 3300, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3307, and MATH 1308 or SOCW 2325 or other equivalent statistics course approved by the Director of Undergraduate Programs.
SUT 3309. SUT PRACTIC II. 3 Hours.
Theories and methodologies of social service assessment, case management, and other generalist intervention at the individual, family, and group levels in diverse settings through the lens of intersectionality of race, gender, sexuality, age educational level and other aspects of identity.
SUT 3315. INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS. 3 Hours.
This is an entry-level course that provides foundation-level social work students with the fundamental concepts of Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and the addictive process. Students will examine the prevalence and characteristics of substance use disorders and the impact of such disorders on the individual, family, and the community. Theories of addiction and application of these theories will be examined. Students will develop conceptual knowledge and self-awareness concerning the etiology of addiction, assessment strategies, and wellness strategies for facilitating optimal development and preventing SUD. The course will cover the prevalence of SUD varies among ethnic and cultural groups, between men and women, across the life span, and through different socio-economic levels. This course is taught as SOCW 3315 and SUT 3315. Credit will be granted only once.
SUT 3318. SCREENING, ASSESSMENT, & ENGAGEMENT. 3 Hours.
Introduces screening and diagnostic instruments and techniques appropriate for determining whether a substance use disorder might exist. Explores the therapeutic alliance and practice engagement techniques taking into account intersections of race, gender, sexuality, age, educational level, and other aspects of identity. Students learn to assess suicide risk and a client's readiness for change. Students learn to diagnose substance use disorders and recognize intoxication, withdrawal, substance, and medication induced disorders. Offered as SUT 3318 and SOCW 3318. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: Prerequisite OR Corequisite: SUT 3315 or SOCW 3315.
SUT 3319. TREATMENT PLANNING, COLLABORATION & REFERRAL. 3 Hours.
This course addresses the clinical application of the biopsychosocial assessment in the development of a treatment plan. Potential treatment issues will be identified and a client-specific problem list will be developed. Individualized treatment goals will be established in collaboration with diverse clients. Client objectives and clinical interventions will also be developed. This course explores dynamics of the therapeutic alliance, and clinician-client collaboration within the context of a strengths and empowerment-based perspective. The student will gain insight into and an appreciation of collaboration, consultation, and referral throughout the continuum of care. Offered as SUT 3319 and SOCW 3319. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: SOCW 3318 or SUT 3318.
SUT 3321. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
This course is the culmination of the fundamentals of substance use disorders, treatment planning, collaboration and referral, and substance use treatment. Students will learn and acquire the special skills necessary to assist individuals, families, and groups through the sequela of substance use and addiction. Focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, 12-step programs, nutrition and exercise, meditation, and other alternative treatment options. Students will study treatment modalities that consider the social, cultural, and economic influences that shape the client's world view and substance use experience. Offered as SUT 3321 and SOCW 3321. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: Prerequisite or corequisite: SUT 3319 or SOCW 3319.
SUT 3322. PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the importance of the ethical standards and professionalism in substance use treatment. Students will learn to apply the ethical standards required for careers in substance use treatment. Prerequisite: SUT 3321.
SUT 3350. SPECIAL ISSUES IN SUT. 3 Hours.
Relevant social work topics generated and explored in depth according to student and professional needs. The topic will be determined prior to registration. Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.
SUT 4320. SOCIAL WORK & ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.
In this course students will explore substance use disorder issues at various levels of practice including direct practice and macro issues as relevant to addiction and the brain. Students will explore concepts about pharmacology and neuropsychology as it relates to substance use disorders and the physiological effect of alcohol and other drugs (AODs) on individuals. Students will learn how to apply diagnostic tools and counseling theories for intervention at various levels of care.
SUT 4344. HEALTH INSURANCE AND ACCESS TO CARE. 3 Hours.
Explores the history and underlying philosophy of managed care in health and social services, reviews interdisciplinary approaches and principles for understanding and critiquing health care systems, and covers current trends and practice issues. Assesses the potential for conflict between social work values and managed care systems. Builds skills for advancing health equity through administrative roles in managed care settings. This is offered at the MSW level as SOCW 5344. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.
SUT 4350. SPECIAL ISSUES IN SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Relevant substance use treatment topics generated and explored in depth according to student and professional needs. The topic will be determined prior to registration.
SUT 4451. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD SEMINAR I. 4 Hours.
Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate substance use treatment knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their SUT practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/ BSSUT Manual and Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4452. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD SEMINAR II. 4 Hours.
Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate substance use treatment knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their SUT practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/ BSSUT Manual and Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives. BSSUT students only.
SUT 4455. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD SEMINAR BLOCK PART 1. 4 Hours.
Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate substance use treatment knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their SUT practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/ BSSUT Manual and Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4456. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD SEMINAR BLOCK PART 2. 4 Hours.
Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate substance use treatment knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their SUT practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/ BSSUT Manual and Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4551. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD INSTRUCTION I. 5 Hours.
Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours with an agency that specializes in treatment of substance use disorders and/or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Students will integrate the applicable treatment modalities, theories, and concepts learned in the classroom into professional practice. Students will follow the Professional Ethics and apply an anti-oppression lens while in their field placements. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/BSSUT Field Manual. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4552. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD INSTRUCTION II. 5 Hours.
Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours with an agency that specializes in treatment of substance use disorders and/or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. . Students will integrate the applicable treatment modalities, theories, and concepts learned in the classroom into professional practice. Students will follow the Professional Ethics and apply an anti-oppression lens while in their field placements. Students will also spend an additional 2 hours weekly in the classroom. For additional information and requirements, see the BSWB/BSSUT Field Manual. BSSUT students only. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4555. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD INSTRUCTIONBLOCK PART 1. 5 Hours.
Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours with an agency that specializes in treatment of substance use disorders and/or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Students will integrate the applicable treatment modalities, theories, and concepts learned in the classroom into professional practice. Students will follow Professional Ethics and apply an anti-oppression lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.
SUT 4556. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT FIELD INSTRUCTION BLOCK PART 2. 5 Hours.
Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours with an agency that specializes in treatment of substance use disorders and/or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Students will integrate the applicable treatment modalities, theories, and concepts learned in the classroom into professional practice. Students will follow Professional Ethics and apply an anti-oppression lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, PSYC 3318, ECON 2337, SUT 3318, PSYC 3303, SOCW 3308, SUT 3319, SUT 3321, SUT 3322, SOCW 4344 and three General Electives.