Addiction studies program marks two-year streak

Frank Zavadil, chair of the University of South Dakota's (UDS) Department of Addiction Studies, recently had reason to brag.

“All 15 of our graduates from the past two years have passed the national exam administered by the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals," he said.

The USD program is the only one in the state accredited through the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission. It has offered degrees for more than 40 years.

According to USD, the demand for professional addiction professionals is high and expected to grow by 37 percent through 2022. Graduates often find work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, treatment centers and employee assistance programs.