Welcome to Governors State University in Chicago's Southland

The Department of Addictions Studies and Behavioral Health (ASBH) at Governors State University is a nationally recognized academic unit committed to preparing students for momentous careers in behavioral health, substance use treatment, and community wellness. Situated within the College of Health and Human Services, the department offers a comprehensive suite of programs, including a Master of Health Science in Addictions Studies and a Bachelor of Health Science in Community Health.
We also offer a range of specialized certificate programs designed to meet the growing demand for trained professionals in the behavioral health and substance use treatment fields. These certificates are ideal for both new entrants and experienced professionals looking to expand their expertise or transition into addiction-focused roles:

Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) Preparation Certificate, which meets Illinois state educational requirements for CADC credentialing and provides foundational knowledge in addiction theory, counseling techniques, and ethical practice.
The Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) Certificate prepares individuals—many of whom have lived experience—with the skills needed to provide peer-based recovery support services in clinical and community settings.
The Addictions Screening, Assessment, and Referral (ASAR) Certificate offers specialized training for professionals seeking to enhance their competency in early identification, assessment, and referral of individuals with substance use concerns.

We have been awarded a grant to provide scholarships to fund students for the CADC program, which covers tuition, fees, books, a computer, and provides a stipend during the internship phase (clinical training) of the program. For full consideration, students must apply to the program and scholarship by July 30th for the fall term and November 30th for the spring term.
Press Release: Scholarships for MHS in Addictions Studies Students
Learn How to Apply for the CADC Scholarship
APPLY FOR THE CADC SCHOLARSHIP

Bachelors of Health Science (BHS) in Community Health

The Community Health program is dedicated to promoting health status by addressing the social determinants of health and working to protect and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities locally and globally. Through a 24-credit core and 15-20-credit electives curriculum —covering epidemiology, environmental health, health disparities, research design, and community health practice—students are well equipped with skills, knowledge, and practice to provide professional services in the community where they reside. Further, students are also positioned to plan, implement, and evaluate health programs and services for target populations. This program offers three distinct concentrations, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career paths:

Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
Pre-Health Professions
Foundations of Substance Abuse

Graduates emerge with strong competencies in cultural responsiveness, health needs assessment, program evaluation, and ethical decision‑making. This program prepares students to apply for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) examination through https://www.nchec.org/ches-exam.

Note: The program prepares students to enroll for advance graduate studies, such as Doctor of Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy, or pursuing a master’s degree, Ph.D. in Health Sciences, Public Health, or other doctorate degrees. Click for Example Degree Planner

Master of Health in Addiction Studies

The Addictions Studies program is designed to prepare advanced practitioners who are committed to addressing the complex nature of substance use disorders through evidence-based, person-centered, and culturally responsive care. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to care that integrates biological, psychological, and social determinants of addiction while promoting long-term recovery and community reintegration for individuals affected by substance use. The program prepares students to deliver compassionate, culturally responsive care while actively working to reduce stigma and promote equitable access to treatment and recovery services. With required internships and applied training, students gain hands-on experience in real-world settings and develop the clinical, ethical, and interpersonal skills needed for effective addiction counseling. Graduates are equipped to enter the behavioral health workforce or pursue advanced degrees in counseling, psychology, or related fields. Click for Example Degree Planner

For students interested in pursuing state licensure as a professional counselor, they can enroll in the Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling program that requires completion of a 60-credit hour. This pathway is designed to meet the educational requirements set by the Illinois licensing board, making graduates eligible to sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and apply for associate licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Upon completion of the required post-graduate supervised work experience, graduates may also pursue full licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the State of Illinois. As a note, students who are planning to practice outside of Illinois should be aware that licensing requirements vary by state, and additional coursework or training may be necessary.

Both Addictions Studies Programs are accredited by the
The Illinois Certification Board, Inc.
and satisfies the academic requirements toward the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) professional credential. These programs also are accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC).

The Department of Addictions Studies and Behavioral Health at Governors State University is proud to be led by a diverse and accomplished faculty committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. Our faculty members are nationally and internationally recognized scholars and practitioners who bring extensive experience in addiction science, behavioral health, community health, and public health leadership. With numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at global conferences, and active roles in professional organizations, our faculty contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the field and the development of future leaders in health and human services.

Dr. Matthew E. Sprong, Ph.D.

Dept. Chair & Associate Professor

Email: msprong@govst.edu, Phone: 708.534.4919

Dr. Joseph Day, DrPH

Com. Hlth. Program Coordinator & Associate Professor

Email: jday2@govst.edu, Phone: 708.235.7389

Dr. Jessica Love Jordan, Ph.D.

Add. Stud. Program Coordinator & Assistant Professor

Email: jlovejordan5@govst.edu, 708.235.7389

Dr. Sabita Shrestha, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Email: sshrestha@govst.edu, Phone: 708.235.2160