As the number of people across the country struggling with addiction continues to grow, so does the demand for professionals equipped to help them. West Virginia University’s College of Education and Human Services was recently recognized by college ranking website TheBestSchools.org for its online master’s degree in substance abuse counseling, which the website ranks sixth in the nation.
According to James Barham, general editor with TheBestSchools.org, the programs are ranked based on overall academic excellence, course offerings and return on investment. The rehabilitation counseling master’s degree offered by the College of Education and Human Services is fully accredited by the Council on Rehabilitation Education. Students seeking to earn the degree are required to complete internships, as well as participate in a practicum course under the supervision of a licensed rehabilitation counselor.
“A degree in rehabilitation counseling is a strong option for people who wish to work in substance abuse counseling,” said Margaret Glenn, an associate professor within the department. “Our holistic orientation, understanding of recovery and focus on successful employment outcomes are essential characteristics in today’s job market.”
Glenn notes that the program has a long history of excellent students, engaged faculty and a high employment rate for graduates.
“It is an example of the efforts of an academic program working to provide relevant and applicable content and experiences to students who will one day work to advance recovery of individuals requiring substance abuse counseling,” said Carol Markstrom, interim associate dean of Academic Affairs.
Additionally, the college’s online program for Master of Arts in Education placed 17th on another list published on the site ranking the 20 best online Master of Education programs.
“We are pleased and grateful that our education programs have been again nationally ranked,” said Dean Lynne Schrum. “The rankings provide evidence of the exceptional faculty and staff in the WVU College of Education and Human Services and their continuous efforts to offer exemplary educational preparation. As dean, I am proud of the effort given to offering the best education to all our students.”
