Addiction Studies Adelaide University

Overview

Throughout the Addiction Studies course from Adelaide University you’ll explore and examine addiction from biological, psychological, social and public health perspectives. 

Explore the biological basis of addiction, individual and community-based risk and protective factors, and approaches to treatment. Examine addiction health policy the international level. Study critical issues, including barriers and enablers to treatment for at-risk groups in special settings. 

Apply and deepen your learning through a major research project. Sharpen your research skills with research methodologies courses, including approaches specific to the field of addiction sciences. You will also undertake your own research project. 

You’ll emerge with the advanced knowledge and skills to drive change, ready to take on a range of leadership roles in addiction treatment and prevention, or shape local, national and international policy. 

Career opportunities:

You’ll graduate ready for fulfilling careers in the addiction field, including in leadership roles. This degree’s emphasis on global research, policy and approaches gives you a portable qualification, unlocking career opportunities on an international scale.  

Depending on your professional background, you might apply your advanced knowledge of addiction studies to take up more specialised roles in your existing field. 

As a social worker, you could use your in-depth knowledge of evidence-based support models to help clients managing substance use disorders navigate recovery and rebuild their lives. Maybe you’re already a psychologist and can apply your expertise to manage and coordinate addiction recovery programs. Perhaps you’ll lead harm reduction outreach initiatives, encouraging safer behaviours and acting as a bridge to healthcare and social services for at-risk populations. 

Addiction is a complex disorder. Prevention, treatment and recovery requires many kinds of expertise. This means that addiction professionals 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.