Curriculum
The MAS can be completed in one or two years, depending on the number of courses taken each semester.
Students may select one of three tracks within the MAS program:
General: This track is intended for individuals who seek to learn more about addiction science, but who do not intend to pursue a career in research or clinical work. Internships in industry, public health and community service agencies, and other settings are available. This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (8 core units, 22 elective units, and 2 thesis units)
Research: Students on the research track will obtain additional skills in the design, development, and implementation of a research project, and in the analysis and preparation of findings from collected data. This track is intended for individuals who want to pursue a career in research or attend graduate school in a research-related field and involved mentored directed research from one of the Institute’s faculty. This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (16 core units, 12 elective units, and 4 thesis units)
Clinical: Students on the clinical track will develop additional skills in managing addiction in clinical settings, including hands on experience in a clinical setting of the student’s choice within the Keck healthcare system or one of USC’s community partners. This track is intended for individuals who are currently working in a clinical setting or who plan to do so in the future (e.g., those interested in attending medical, dental or pharmacy school, or who plan to obtain a graduate degree in a clinically related field such as social work or psychology). This track has a required 32 units for graduation. (19 core units, 5 elective units, and 4 thesis units)