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 that 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. We train leaders in the addiction policy 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.
Application Deadlines
January 15, 2025
Priority Master of Science Application Deadline
Classes begin June 30th, 2025
Application Fee Waived!
May 1, 2025*
Regular Master of Science Application Deadline
Classes begin June 30th, 2025
Application Fee $90
Why Addiction Policy & Practice?
The Addiction Policy & Practice program curriculum is a unique course of study 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
The curriculum includes courses on:
- U.S. Addiction Policy
- Addiction & Mental Health Law
- Data Analysis & Statistics
- Health Care Financing
- Neurobiology
- Epidemiology
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.
“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 will become part of a 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 the local or international level, our home in DC provides numerous opportunities and connections. 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 & Practice program trains students to work in a variety of fields, and graduates are highly competitive for policy positions in government, advocacy, and the nonprofit sector. A defining feature of the program is the small cohort size, which allows for an engaging and interactive academic experience as well as tailored career services.
Our graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the non-profit, private, and government sectors. 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
