Addiction Policy & Practice

Application Deadlines

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 ADPP program offers a truly unique educational experience, blending in-depth learning with career-focused opportunities. It’s an invaluable way to gain a deep understanding of the past and present of U.S. drug policy to help shape its future.

Nikki Carter ’23, Substance Use Policy Analyst at American Medical Association

ADPP caters to people from all walks of life with an interest in addiction because there is a need for voices from all types of people with diverse backgrounds. For many of us, addiction has touched our lives in one way or another. The education this program provides is tailored for a comprehensive view of addiction and how it impacts our lives and our world.

Thaddeus Wientzen ’24, Overdose Survivor Outreach Peer Recovery Coach at MedStar Hospital

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. 

“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