Master of Science in Addiction Policy & Practice

Empowering leaders in addiction policy
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An Interdisciplinary Approach to Addiction Policy

Are you passionate about making a difference in the addiction policy field? Are you eager to be a leader in crafting effective policies to transform communities?

The Master of Science in Addiction Policy & Practice at Georgetown University is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and expertise to address one of society’s most pressing public health challenges. The M.S. in Addiction Policy & Practice program trains leaders in the addiction policy advocacy field by providing students with a comprehensive understanding of addiction, including public health and criminal justice policy, basic science, and evidence-based prevention, treatment and recovery.

Full- and Part-Time Attendance Options
No GRE required
Discounted tuition rate

Application Deadlines

January 15, 2024

Priority Master of Science Application Deadline

Classes begin July 2024

Application Fee Waived!

April 1, 2024

Regular Master of Science Application Deadline

Classes begin July 2024

Application Fee $90

Why Addiction Policy & Practice?

The Addiction Policy & Practice program curriculum is a course of study that provides a unique combination of training that brings together the fields of public policy, neuroscience, psychiatry, epidemiology, and social sciences. Graduates of the program emerge with a versatile skill set, poised to contribute meaningfully to evidence-based interventions, prevention strategies, and policy development.

The curriculum includes courses on: 

  • Health Care Financing 
  • Neurobiology
  • Data Analysis & Statistics
  • Epidemiology
  • U.S. Addiction Policy
  • Addiction & Mental Health Law

Faculty With Real World Experience

The faculty of the Addiction Policy & Practice program are a team of experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom to guide the next generation of leaders in addiction policy. 

Headshot of Regina LaBelle

“The program is unique, approaching addiction policy from a multidisciplinary lens. It includes courses on data and healthcare finance along with the biological, social, and legal context of addiction.”

Regina LaBelle, J.D. Director of Addiction Policy & Practice Program; Director of Addiction & Public Policy at the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law

“We recognize that now is the time to build a diverse and dynamic network of policy professionals armed with the tools and education to revolutionize how our systems approach addiction.”

Shelly Weizman, J.D. Project Director of the Addiction and Public Policy Initiative at the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University Law Center

Why Georgetown?

Georgetown students are driven to create meaningful change, and our location in Washington, DC, helps make that possible. As a student at Georgetown, you become part of a forward-looking, diverse community devoted to social justice, restless inquiry, and respect for each person’s individual needs and talents. Whether you want to effect change on local or international levels, our home in DC provides numerous opportunities and connections, and you’ll have access to a vast network of alumni, industry professionals and community leaders.

Advancing Your Career in Addiction Policy

The Master of Science in Addiction Policy and Practice trains students to work in a variety of fields and graduates are highly competitive for policy positions in government, advocacy, or nonprofit sectors. A defining feature of the Master’s Program in Addiction Policy and Practice is the small cohort size. This allows for an engaging and interactive academic experience as well as tailored career service advising – we are here to help you find jobs and internships that are right for you.

Our graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the non-profit, private sector, and government. Here are some employers of our recent grads:

  • Office of National Drug Control Policy
  • American Society of Addiction Medicine
  • DC Department of Behavioral Health 
  • American Psychiatric Association
  • New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports 
  • Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
  • Continuing their education in medical or law school