The certificate in Substance Abuse and Addictions Studies (SAAS) is primarily an online, internet-based program designed to help students meet the State education requirements for certification as substance abuse counselors and to provide continuing education opportunities for professionals in the addictions field. Although not required for certification, students are strongly encouraged to concurrently complete the Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Sciences with a concentration in Psychology.

Conferral of a certificate in Substance Abuse and Addiction Studies (SAAS) does not result in professional licensure. For State licensure, the Department of Health, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division requires that candidates who hold a BA degree and SAAS certificate complete 4000 hours of supervised substance abuse counseling work and pass an examination that evaluates the applicant's qualifications and competence. For more information on becoming a Hawaii State Certified Substance Abuse Counselor please contact the Department of Health, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division at (808) 692-7506.