Nashua college debuts addiction recovery certificate

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Nashua Community College will offer an 18-credit Addiction Recovery Support Worker certificate starting Fall 2022. The certificate is designed for peer helpers and volunteers who want to begin a pathway to professional credentials, which can lead to full time employment in the field with benefits.

As a stackable credential, students can also roll credits into a two-year human services associate degree or four-year program. The certificate also complements a psychology degree pathway.

Certificate classes are flexible, and include online, hybrid (online and in-person mix), and on-campus courses. Students with prior college credit, work, or volunteer experience in the field may be eligible for additional credits toward the certificate.

Addressing a Critical Need

“New Hampshire has the third highest opioid overdose death rate per 100,000 citizens from most recent data,” said Prof. Jayne Barnes, head of the Social, Educational, and Behavioral Department, which houses the new certificate. On introducing the certificate, Barnes notes the overdose rate has steadily risen in Greater Nashua, citing data from American Medical Response ambulance service, or AMR, “In 2015 there was 256 overdoses in Nashua, NH. In 2018 there was 314 overdoses in Nashua. The latest figures from AMR, June 2021, have shown that the overdose rate had gone up 200 percent.”

Psychology program coordinator, Prof. David Rondeau, said the certificate pathway welcomes students of all ages and life experiences. “Many students have first-hand experience with the impact of addiction on family members or friends.”

The need for support workers has only been exacerbated by the pandemic. “You’re not only choosing a college, but you’re choosing to help the community,” said Barnes.

Learn more

Come to campus and speak with Prof. Barnes and Prof. Rondeau to learn more about the certificate, course flexibility, internship opportunities and career outlook. Prospective students are welcome to stop by Open House at NCC on Wednesday, April 20 from 5-7 PM. Or, get in touch with admissions to set up an individual appointment and campus tour, Nashua@ccsnh.edu or 603.578.8908.

While the certificate officially launches in fall, students can begin taking classes as early as the Summer 2022 term. See class schedules online at nashuacc.edu/academics/class-schedules.

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