Addiction is defined as the psychological and physical dependence on substances including alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and marijuana. Addiction also involves the continued use of substances or activities the user knows are damaging to his/her health. Once used for pleasure, this use is now required to feel normal. Such addictions can be for gambling, exercise, sex, food, pornography, computers, and the internet. The American Society of Addiction provides the following definition: addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry.

Masters programs in Addiction Psychology train students how to diagnose and treat addiction. According to recent studies, there is a growing shortage of psychologists who receive education with an addiction specialty. Research shows that one in 10 adults in the United States is addicted to alcohol or drugs specialists will continue to be in demand to address this public health crisis. Masters programs can be between 64-70 semester credit hours. Some programs require a thesis with original research that adds new knowledge to the field. One example of a course a student might take includes Research Methods and Statistics. Graduates of these programs find jobs as university and secondary school counselors, private practice practitioners, or public health advocates.

Online Masters Degree in Psychology Guide

MS in Psychology MS in Clinical Psychology MS in Counseling Psychology MS in School Psychology	Capella University Capella University offers several advanced online degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology , MS in Clinical Psychology , MS in Counseling Psychology and MS in School Psychology . Skilled professionals with clinical experience teach the curriculum. Students will also develop critical thinking skills necessary to help understand and apply key psychological principles in diverse work settings.
MS in Psychology MS in Media Psychology MS in Social Psychology	Walden University Walden University offers many online masters degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology , MS in Media Psychology , and MS in Social Psychology . Students will study current theories and research associated with dysfunctional behavior that can be applied in a range of settings including healthcare, education, government and business environments.
MS in Psychology MS in Addictions Psychology MS in Behavioral Psychology MS in Organizational Psychology	Kaplan University Kaplan University offers several graduate-level online degree programs in Psychology, including: MS in Psychology , MS in Addictions Psychology , MS in Behavioral Psychology and MS in Organizational Psychology . Each course includes clearly set goals, so that students know what is expected of them and class sizes are limited, allowing students to receive the personal attention that they desire. The program prepares students for employment in he field of psychology and in postsecondary education.
MA in Psychology MA in Gender Studies Psych. MA in Health Psychology MA in I/O Psychology	Northcentral University Northcentral University offers several advanced online degree programs in Psychology, including: MA in Psychology , MA in Gender Studies Psychology , MA in Health Psychology and MA in I/O Psychology . Students can choose from a wide variety of different degree options, virtually guaranteeing each the chance to succeed in the specialty that truly appeals to him/her. Administrators and mentors work directly with students throughout the program.
MS in Behavior Analysis	Saint Joseph's University As a leader in the higher education industry, Saint Joseph's University has maintained its place on the cutting edge of new shifts and advances in online learning. In response to increased demand for online programs, SJU has added an online course for MS in Behavior Analysis to its course catalog. This program qualifies its graduates to take the licensure exam to become a board-certified behavior analyst.
MS in Psychology MS in I/O Psychology	Grand Canyon University Grand Canyon University offers both MS in Psychology and MS in I/O Psychology online degrees. The programs are designed for individuals who desire promotion and/or continued academic exposure in the field of psychology. With a focus on the development of critical thinking and leadership qualities, courses include: Human Development, Learning, Cognition, and Motivation, and Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology.
MS in Forensic Psychology	University of Liverpool The University of Liverpool offers an online MS degree in Forensic Psychology . Liverpool is one of the leading Psychology departments in the UK. Over 3,500 graduates from more than 130 countries have participated in the online program. Cutting edge research and contributions from leading academics and practitioners in the field creates a rich and highly stimulating experience for students.