Addictions Counselling

Program Overview

It takes emotional maturity, good people skills and a strong sense of self to become an addictions counsellor. If you’re interested, the Addictions Counselling program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic will provide the training you need. The program is also the first in Canada to integrate mental health, addictions and First Nations philosophy.

Extensive training hours and experiential learn qualify you for jobs with community-based agencies, health regions, non-profit organizations, school systems and private companies. Look for a position as a treatment counsellor, addictions educator, group home worker, case manager or employee/family assistance counsellor.

Addictions Counselling is a two-year diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Prince Albert campus. You’ll study cross-cultural and gender issues, gambling, pharmacology, drug abuse history in communities and more. Instructors with real-world experience provide practical training in:

administrative and communication skills
integrated case management, motivational interviewing
one-one and group counselling
community mobilization, prevention and development projects
community-based public education, health promotion sessions
screenings, assessments, treatment plans and referrals
suicide intervention and crisis intervention
trauma and addictions

Experiential Learning

You’ll apply what you learn in class during role-play sessions in experiential labs. Skilled instructors provide coaching and monitoring as you practice suicide and crisis intervention skills, one-on-one counselling techniques and group counselling.

On-the-Ground Training

You’ll get on-the-ground training in the community, including a two-week clinical work experience in a detoxification setting and a 12-week clinical work experience in an addictions program setting. Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s extensive training hours and real-world experience provide professional skills and confidence, enabling you to transition smoothly into a counselling position on graduation.

Get a Degree

If you add an introductory course in corrections to your studies, when you graduate you’ll be eligible to transfer into third year of the four-year Bachelor of Applied Arts in Justice Studies at Lethbridge College in Alberta.

Transfer credit is available for:

up to 42 credits towards a Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW) with the University of Regina Social Work Degree Program at the University of Regina, Regina Saskatchewan
up to 51 credits towards the Addictions Counselling Degree (B.Hsc.) program through the University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge Alberta
up to 30 credits towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA) Briercrest College and Seminary, Briercrest Saskatchewan

Nationally Recognized Training

The program is sanctioned by both the Addictions Professionals Association of Saskatchewan (APASK, www.apask.org) and the Canadian Addictions Counsellor Certification Federation (CACCF, www.caccf.ca). It also exceeds national workforce competencies developed by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA). This means your training is relevant in today’s job market.

On graduation, you’ll be eligible for membership in the Addictions Professionals Association of Saskatchewan (APASK). You’ll also be able to apply your training hours as recognized clinical supervision to achieve full certification as an addictions counsellor or prevention worker through the CACCF.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Look for career opportunities with provincial and federal health agencies, non-profit organizations, school systems, private companies and with community-based agencies such as the National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program and the Métis Addictions Council of Saskatchewan.

For more information, contact the Student Employment Services at the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus nearest you.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor	Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors (4153)	$35,200 - $77,000
Substance Abuse Counsellor	Family, Marriage and Other Related Counsellors (4153)	$35,200 - $77,000
Drug Addiction Worker	Community and Social Service Workers (4212)	$29,200 - $66,600

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

Length: 80 weeks

Year 1 - 41 weeks; Year 2 - 39 weeks

Locations

Prince Albert

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30
Satisfactory assessment for chemical dependency (the assessment is made up of two parts; evaluation of the assessment and interpretation of results)*
Satisfactory Criminal Record Check
English Language Requirement

* The assessment must be completed by an addiction service provider in accordance to the standards and methodology of SMRS (Saskatchewan Model of Recovery Services).
A Personal Information Package that provides more detail on the program's admission requirements is available from Registration Services.

Note

Standard First Aid and CPR Heartsaver "A" AED or equivalent are required for occupational and/or clinical placement. The cost of Standard First Aid and CPR Heartsaver "A" or equivalent certification is your responsibility.
Accepted applicants are required to provide current immunization records.

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

75 Reading
75 Sentence
4 WritePlacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $8,800
Year 2 - $7,200

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CAPL 145

Writing Skills

You will review basic grammar and the mechanics of writing. You will also produce examples of technical writing (including basic reports, research papers using the American Psychological Association (APA) format and using reference materials). You will receive instruction and practice in written communication skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 119
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 155

Behaviour and Drug Dynamics

You will be introduced to the pharmacological and physiological effects of drugs on the body. You will also discuss six major drug classifications. You will examine, in detail, key drugs of abuse encountered as addictions workers. You will also practice presenting information on drugs to education groups.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MHA 148
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CDEP 158

Substance Use Disorders/Disorder Patterns

You will discuss the theories, etiology, and best practices of working with clients with substance use disorders. You will also review the addictions and recovery processes for alcohol, cocaine and marijuana for adults and adolescents.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 161

Erosion of Addicted Families

You will examine the progressive erosion of family functioning as the effects of substance disorders progress. The effects on the addicted person's spouse, children, parents and adult children will be given specific attention.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 179, CDEP 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CDEP 179

Detoxification and Recovery Processes

You will examine various detoxification programs, recovery wellness models, the dynamics of relapse and medical interventions used in the recovery process across Canada. You will examine special considerations needed for withdrawal management (including treatment processes) as they relate to non–Indigenous and Indigenous traditional practices.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CAPL 145, CDEP 155, CDEP 158
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 180

Family Systems and Abuses

Your studies will focus on the structure, functions, individual roles and values within the institution of the family. The Canadian family, the influence of family background and family dynamics within a "systems theory" will be emphasized. You will examine the types of abuses that occur in a family and various referral strategies for families entering into the healing process.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 158
Equivalent Course(s): YCW 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CLTR 148

Valuing Diversity

You will be introduced to a philosophical approach that values diversity, blends multi-spiritual principles and emphasizes the strengths within community. You will examine what it means to be culturally competent when working with clients affected by mental health and substance use/abuse. You will also participate in culture awareness activities with special consideration to Indigenous peoples of Canada.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MHA 148
Equivalent Course(s): CDEP 167
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

MHA 147

Personal Health Strategies

You will review the whole person model, time management, learning styles, study techniques, various types of stressors and how they affect your mental wellbeing. You will then use the results to create individualized study and mental health plans needed to complete the program. You will explore the use of cultural activities to manage stressors.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

MHA 148

Mental Health and Addictions Professionals

You will explore personal and professional development as it relates to the addictions and mental health industry. You will be introduced to the concepts of personal and professional development in a holistic and multifaceted approach. You will learn practical ways of exploring self-concept, self-esteem, and raising one’s self-esteem using focusing/mindfulness and a values clarification process to develop personal and professional goals.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MHA 147
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CDEP 172

Communications in Mental Health and Addictions

You will practice communication skills needed to develop effective interpersonal communication within the mental health and addictions profession. Skills learned will include verbal and nonverbal communication, self-disclosure, trust building, demonstrating respect, summarizing, giving and receiving feedback, and paraphrasing. You will also examine the role addictions, co-dependency and cultural diversity play in communications from a client's view and from the skilled helper's view.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 176
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CDEP 176

Human Relations in Mental Health and Addictions

You will examine the importance of interpersonal competence and communication in one's personal and professional life. You will study self-disclosure and the various levels needed for personal and professional use. The course content includes trust building, active listening, verbal and non-verbal communication and building relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 178, CDEP 180, CDEP 161
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 177

Conflict Resolution in Mental Health and Addictions

You will introduced to theory and skills for effective anger, fear and conflict management. You will learn how to identify sources of anger, fear and conflicts. You will be given opportunities to practice assertiveness, conflict resolution, confrontation and negotiation skills. You will also explore the implications that arise when working with people affected by addictions and from various cultural backgrounds.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 172
Equivalent Course(s): CDEP 173
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 178

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

You will be introduced to the basic concepts of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (pFAS). The course emphasizes the importance of identifying those at risk for FASD neurodevelopmental disorder, early intervention and strategies for working with clients and their families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

CDEP 181

Special Needs in Mental Health and Addictions

You will study the role sex and sexuality play in addictions. You will examine a number of core challenges surrounding special needs clients including the elderly, grieving clients, physically challenged, clients with chronic infectious diseases, clients on probation or parole and street youth. You will also study addictions issues specific to the sub-group populations with gender issues.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 161
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

ETHC 140

Ethics in Mental Health and Addictions

You will examine the purpose and ethical basis for being a skilled helper with particular emphasis in the addictions industry. You will be introduced to the Problem Management Approach to Helping. You will learn how to apply the codes of ethics and confidentiality in the human services industry, notably the addictions industry.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 177
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

HUMD 144

Life Span Issues

Using a holistic approach, you will examine culture in human development and the influence of substance use and/or abuse and mental health issues in each stage of the life span.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 158, CDEP 178
Equivalent Course(s): HUMD 143
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

MHA 143

Concurrent Disorders

You will be provided with foundational knowledge regarding the relationship between mental health and substance use, risk factors, and treatment models for concurrent disorder clients. You will study prevalence rates of concurrent disorders. You will be introduced to the Saskatchewan Mental Health Act. You will use brief screening instruments and referral procedures.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CLTR 148, HUMD 144, MHA 149
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

MHA 144

Process Addictions

You will examine the nature and extent of process addictions including problem gambling and Internet use, the phases of problem use, and the signs and characteristics of individuals who experience problem use. You will be introduced to entry level screening, assessment tools and referral sources used for process addictions, relapse and the recovery process. You will recognize the differences, similarities and relationships between gambling, other addictions and mental health issues.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group

MHA 149

Mental Health Disorders and Medical Issues

You will examine the history, services, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V) and the Canadian Mental Health Strategy, including the continuum of mental health and mental well-being and the concept of the “Recovery Model”. You will examine the effects of stigma as it relates to mental health and substance use disorders and its effect upon the client. You will study pharmacological treatment of mental health issues, Indigenous philosophical approaches to medication, and issues that may arise between conflicting philosophies of Indigenous peoples and the medical model.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 158
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COUN 151

Brief Screenings

You will examine and practice using various brief screening instruments. You will practice administering, scoring, interpreting, and presenting brief screening results.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ETHC 140
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

COUN 152

Suicide Interventions

You will receive information on suicide, and suicide prevention and intervention. The course content includes recognizing suicidal behaviour, assessing risk and practicing prevention and intervention techniques. You will also discuss addictions centre protocol.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 151(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): SPSY 123
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 154

Addictions Counselling Theory

You will receive an orientation to the complete skilled helping process using the Egan Three Stage Problem Management Approach and the Opportunity Development Approach to Helping. You will examine establishing rapport, foundational counselling skills, assessing client problems, the process of facilitating client self-exploration, assisting a client in developing new perspectives and setting goals. You will learn how to challenge clients when they are stuck, the role of challenging denial in co-dependent and addicted clients, and the process of facilitating clients in designing their treatment plans.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 152, COUN 158, ETHC 140
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 157

Motivational Interviewing

You will examine the elements and process of motivational interviewing. You will also explore what motivates a person to change, in particular, to seek and maintain recovery from various conditions. You will practice the motivational interviewing process and working with resistant clients.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 177
Equivalent Course(s): COUN 150
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

COUN 158

Assessments and Recovery Plans

You will examine various comprehensive assessment instruments, the process of assessing clients using the whole person model in treatment modalities, case management procedures, risk assessment and best practices. You will practice both paper and electronic documentation and record keeping.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 178, CDEP 180, CDEP 181, CLTR 148, ETHC 140, HUMD 144, MHA 143, MHA 144
Equivalent Course(s): COUN 149
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Web Assisted Delivery Group

PRAC 247

Detoxification Practicum

You will apply the theory and skills you learned in the program in a real-life social/medical detoxification setting. You will be evaluated based on the core functions an addictions worker performs in a detox setting and on your ability to monitor and assist clients in the withdrawal management process.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 80.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 154
Equivalent Course(s): WORK 250
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum-Individual

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ADMN 251

Administrative Functions

You will become familiar with the administrative functions required of addictions service agencies. You will examine organizational structure, management styles, working with community-based organizations and measuring outcomes. You also practice time management and job search skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CAPL 145
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

ADMN 253

Industry Documentation

You will learn how to write formal business letters, memos and informal agency reports for staff presentations. You will also learn how to prepare and manage electronic formal reports such as research and form reports for government and human service agencies.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ADMN 251
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

CDEP 246

Presentation Skills

You will apply various presentation delivery formats ranging from formal speeches, press releases and media interviews, to interactive educational presentations.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 177, CDEP 178, CDEP 180, CDEP 181, CLTR 148, COUN 155, MHA 143, MHA 144
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CDEP 247

Trauma and Addictions

You will examine the prevalence and relationships between trauma, addictions/substance abuse and mental health including the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples. You will examine the impact on service providers working with trauma survivors and the healing process of trauma survivors.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 155

Addictions Counselling Practice

You will conduct one to one counselling sessions using the Egan Three Stage Problem Management Approach and Opportunity Development Approach to Helping. You will practice foundational counselling skills, assist clients (both chemically dependent and their family members) with identifying, exploring, and clarifying problem situations. You will also assist clients in setting recovery goals and creating and implementing treatment plans. You will learn how to challenge denial, establish rapport, close helping sessions and adhere to the addictions worker code of ethics.
Credit Units: 8
Course Hours: 120.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 154(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online

COUN 239

Addictions Group Counselling

You will examine the principles of designing, facilitating and evaluating personal growth groups. Addictions education and recovery groups will be emphasized. The areas that you will explore include the nature and purpose of group counselling, models and stages of group growth and development, leadership/facilitator styles and skills, critical incidents, intervention techniques and designing groups using the Developmental Model of Recovery.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ADMN 251, ADMN 253, CDEP 246, COUN 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 241

Counselling Modalities

You will be introduced to various counselling techniques that can be used to accompany the Egan Three Stage Problem Management Approach and Opportunity Development Approach to Helping. You will review the important link between counselling and twelve step programs. You will discuss the techniques as they apply to addictions counselling. You will have an opportunity to present a counselling modality.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CDEP 169

Community Engagement

You will examine the process of change, community engagement, mobilization and development. Prevention and education strategies to regain or maintain community wellness lost due to substance abuse will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ADMN 253, COUN 245
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CDEP 170

Prevention Programs

You will examine the major forces and perspectives that have shaped our current addictions policies, laws and practices. Your studies will focus on prevention programming and strategies that can be used to help individuals and communities regain or maintain healthy lifestyles without the influence of substance use.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CDEP 169
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 156

Addictions and Intervention Strategies

Your studies will focus on the goals and philosophy of interventions. You will examine and practice an intervention process as it applies to initiating recovery from the addictions process. You will also examine the role of employee and family assistance programs as a form of intervention and harm reduction.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 245
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 244

Addictions Group Design

You will examine, design, present and evaluate various addictions and personal growth group designs. The course will emphasize the developmental model of recovery and the trans-theoretical model of change.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 239
Equivalent Course(s): COUN 240
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COUN 245

Addictions Group Facilitation

Your studies will focus on the skills needed to facilitate a group process, manage critical incidents, conduct third-party mediations, present planned theory inputs, facilitate structured experiences and assess group progress. The activities are designed to replicate a typical addictions education/counselling group according to the Developmental Model of Recovery. All activities will be videotaped with extensive feedback on your participation and facilitation skills.
Credit Units: 6
Course Hours: 90.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 244
Equivalent Course(s): COUN 240
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

HLTH 240

Health Promotion

You will examine health promotion history, and a variety of health promotion models, processes, strategies, activities, and programs relating to community health and wellness. You will examine the connection between community development, prevention programs, cultural influence, and health promotion activities. You will evaluate health promotion activities based on current health-related topics/issues.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COUN 245
Equivalent Course(s): WORK 251
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PRAC 253

Assessments in Addictions Services

You will apply the core functions as an addictions professional within a clinical and community education setting. You will practice the functions related to interpersonal competence, administration skills, screening, intakes, orientation, assessments and treatment planning. You will also examine and design treatment plan activities based on the Developmental Model of Recovery.
Credit Units: 15
Course Hours: 225.0
Prerequisites(s): HLTH 240
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum-Individual

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

PRAC 254

Treatment Planning in Addictions Services

You will apply the core functions as an addictions professional within a clinical and community education setting. You will practice the functions of interpersonal competence, administration skills, one to one and group counselling, case management, intervene in crisis situations, present client education, refer clients, manage files and client records and consult with other professionals. You will also examine and facilitate counselling activities based on the Developmental Model of Recovery.
Credit Units: 17
Course Hours: 255.0
Prerequisites(s): PRAC 253
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum-Individual

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

block transfer of 60 credits, Bachelor of Professional Arts, Human Services, Athabasca University
13 credit hours transfer, Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina
course transfers, considered on an individual basis, Addictions Counselling Program, Health and Sciences, University of Lethbridge

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

Canadian Addictions Counselling Federation (CACCF)

The program is sanctioned by both the Addictions Professionals Association of Saskatchewan (APASK, www.apask.org) and the Canadian Addictions Counsellor Certification Federation (CACCF, www.caccf.ca). It also exceeds national workforce competencies developed by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA). This means your training is relevant in today’s job market.