Offered by the USC Insititute of Addiction Science, as a partnership between the Mann School, the Keck School of Medicine and the Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, the USC Master of Addiction Science (MAS) program is designed for students who are interested in transdisciplinary and interprofessional approaches to the study of addiction.
Currently, there are courses offered across multiple disciplines that allow students to gain a perspective on addiction from an array of science and policy aspects. However, there is no singular unifying degree or course program solely focused on addiction studies. By interacting with instructors and peers from a variety of disciplines and professions, students in the MAS program will obtain a broader and deeper understanding and set of skills that considers addiction from the “cell to society perspective.” MAS graduates will be poised to take the knowledge and skills gained in the program back to their respective current or future professions to enhance interdisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration.
Curriculum
The MAS can be completed in one or two years, depending on the number of courses taken each semester. Learn more in the USC Course Catalogue.
Students may select one of three tracks within the MAS program:
General: This track is intended for individuals who seek to learn more about addiction science, but who do not intend to pursue a career in research or clinical work. Internships in industry, public health and community service agencies, and other settings are available. This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (8 core units, 20 elective units, and 4 thesis units)
Research: Students on the research track will obtain additional skills in the design, development, and implementation of a research project, and in the analysis and preparation of findings from collected data. This track is intended for individuals who want to pursue a career in research or attend graduate school in a research-related field and involved mentored directed research from one of the Institute’s faculty. This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (16 core units, 12 elective units, and 4 thesis units)
Clinical: Students on the clinical track will develop additional skills in managing addiction in clinical settings, including hands on experience in a clinical setting of the student’s choice within the Keck healthcare system or one of USC’s community partners. This track is intended for individuals who are currently working in a clinical setting or who plan to do so in the future (e.g., those interested in attending medical, dental or pharmacy school, or who plan to obtain a graduate degree in a clinically related field such as social work or psychology). This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (19 core units, 5 elective units, 4 units [20 hours] clinical observation, and 4 thesis units)
How to Apply
Apply through the USC Graduate Admissions Portal or find a link to apply at the bottom of the Keck School of Medicine page.
Contact
Jillian Boelke
Project Specialist
boelke@usc.edu
323-442-2695