Bachelor Of Health Sciences - Addictions Counselling (Optional Co-op) at UOL - University of Lethbridge - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-23

Program overview

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Program overview

The Bachelor of Health Sciences program in Addictions Counselling at the University of Lethbridge is a unique undergraduate program in Canada. It equips students with essential knowledge and skills to assist individuals in the addiction recovery process. The curriculum emphasizes both practical skills and theoretical understanding, focusing on various addictive behaviors and intervention strategies. Students will engage in an intensive study of current issues in addictions and receive comprehensive training in counselling skills. This four-year program culminates in a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree with a major in addictions counselling, preparing graduates for impactful careers in the field.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a period of four years. The program includes:

Two 13-week internships in the fourth year, offering valuable clinical experience.
A focus on treatment, prevention, and health promotion related to addiction.
Intensive training in counselling skills and intervention strategies.
Options for a combined degree with Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

This program is designed to prepare students for various roles in the field of addictions, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the complexities of addiction recovery.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Internships: Students complete two 13-week internships, providing hands-on clinical experience.
Practical Skills Development: The program emphasizes the development of practical skills necessary for effective counselling.
Theoretical Knowledge: Students gain a deep understanding of various addictive behaviors and intervention strategies.
Focus on Current Issues: The curriculum includes a thorough study of contemporary issues in addictions.
Combined Degree Option: Students can opt for a five-year combined Bachelor of Health Sciences and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Addictions Counselling can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Addictions Counsellor: Work with individuals struggling with addiction to develop recovery plans and provide support.
Career Counsellor: Assist clients in identifying career goals and developing strategies to achieve them.
Case Worker (Child/Youth Worker): Support children and youth facing challenges related to addiction and mental health.
Clinical Social Worker: Provide therapy and support to individuals and families dealing with addiction issues.
Crisis Counsellor: Offer immediate support and intervention to individuals in crisis due to addiction.
Family Support Worker: Help families navigate the challenges of addiction and provide resources for recovery.
Withdrawal Management Counsellor: Assist individuals in managing withdrawal symptoms during the recovery process.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit UOL - University of Lethbridge official website

Last updated on 2025-12-23

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Health Sciences - Addictions Counselling program, the following academic requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum average of 65% across the required courses is necessary for admission.

Additional Admission Requirements for Canadian High School Students:

Students must complete five of the following courses:

Required Course: English Language Arts 30-1
Three of the following courses:
- Aboriginal Studies 30
- Biology 30
- Chemistry 30
- Mathematics 30-1 or Mathematics 30-2
- Social Studies 30-1 or Social Studies 30-2
- One or more distinct languages at the 30 level
One additional requirement: Must be at the 30 level and worth at least five credits.

International Students: For international students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to meet the same academic standards as Canadian students. Specific details for Vietnamese and Asian students are not provided, so it is advisable to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Prerequisite Courses: The program does not specify additional prerequisite courses beyond the general admission requirements listed above.

Language Requirements

The English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirement applies to all applicants to undergraduate programs, including the Bachelor of Health Sciences - Addictions Counselling (Optional Co-op). Proficiency in English may be demonstrated through any of the following means:

High School
- Alberta English Language Arts 30-1, or equivalent, with a minimum final (blended) grade of 75 percent.
- A grade of 5 or higher in IB Higher or Standard Level English.
- A grade of 4 or higher in AP English.
- A grade of B or higher in GCE A/S-level or A-level English.
- Successful completion of a minimum of three consecutive years of full-time academic study in English at a secondary school in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language.
Post Secondary
- Successful completion of a minimum two years of full-time academic study in English at a post-secondary institution in Canada or another country where English is recognized as the primary language.
- Successful completion of an academic diploma, applied degree, or baccalaureate degree, requiring at least two years of full-time study, at a recognized post-secondary institution in Canada where the language of instruction is English.
English for Academic Purposes
- Successful completion of the Advanced Level of the University of Lethbridge English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program.
- A passing grade in an EAP program accepted as a means of satisfying ELP by another recognized Canadian university.
ELP Assessments
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) with a minimum total score of 86, with a minimum score of 20 in each section.
- Academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test with a minimum overall score of 6.5, and a minimum 6.0 in each band.
- Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced with a minimum score of 176, and a minimum 176 in each subscore.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic score with a minimum overall score of 61, with a minimum score of 60 in each part.
- Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) assessment with a minimum overall score of 70, with a minimum score of 60 in each component.
- Duolingo with a minimum overall score of 120, with a minimum score of 110 in each subscore.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!