Addiction Studies

Delivered part-time and designed for professionals from social care, healthcare, education, community work, or related fields, this flexible Level 9 programme empowers you to:



Unpack the science and psychology of addiction—from biological and psychological models to social learning and family systems theory.

Recognise the signs and symptoms of substance misuse, including legal, illegal, and prescription drugs.

Evaluate evidence-based interventions such as motivational interviewing and CBT.

Critically assess national and international drug and alcohol policies, placing Ireland’s evolving strategy in a global context.

Understand the deep impact of addiction on families and communities—and how to ethically respond.

Through engaging lectures, real-world case studies, group projects, and reflective assignments, you’ll build the critical skills to act with insight, integrity, and compassion in your professional practice.



Whether you want to deepen your understanding, expand your career, or contribute to social change, this certificate offers a powerful platform for growth and change.

All applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Lifelong Learning reserves the right to require applicants to attend for an interview to determine their suitability for the programme.

12 Weeks Online



This programme will be delivered online over 12 weeks via Blackboard Collaborate

Next intake: January 2026

This programme is part of the Master of Arts in Child, Youth and Family Studies. Participants who complete this course may wish to consider completing the full level 9 programme