# PSY 517 Alcohol and Chemical Substance Abuse Online Course

## PSY 517 Alcohol and Chemical Substance Abuse

**3 Semester Units**

*Alcohol and Chemical Substance Abuse* examines various drugs, drug-related issues, and alcohol through multiple lenses: historical, social, psychological, cultural, biological, and medical. Woven throughout the course is the idea that the effects of drugs and alcohol are as dependent upon individual users’ psychological and biological characteristics as they are on a drug’s specific properties. This course also explores substance misuse treatment and prevention.

**Course Objectives**

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

- Explain the various definitions of the term drug, and examine the history of drug use in the United States as well as key issues related to prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
- Examine the effect of drugs on the nervous system and discuss the history of psychotherapeutic medications.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the key elements of pharmacology, psychopharmacology, and new drug development.
- Analyze current methods for assessment and treatment of substance use disorders and discuss the various drug prevention models.
- Describe the different categories of drugs, their history, acute and chronic effects.
- Demonstrate proficiency with academic writing related to alcohol and chemical substance abuse.

### If you are interested in taking this course, please explore a degree or certificate program below:

[> Explore Psychology Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/psychology/)

## CCU Online Courses FAQ

##### 1. Can I take a single course?

No. At this time, students may only enroll in a [certificate](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) or [degree](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) program and cannot enroll into a single course. We urge you to [Explore All Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) to find a certificate or degree program best suited to your needs.

##### 2. How long is each course?

All of our programs are self-paced. This means you can complete your coursework as quickly or as slowly as your schedule permits as long as you complete one course every six months to remain an active student in good standing.

##### 3. How is the course structured?

This course is structured into four units and a final exam. Each unit has a required essay and an open book multiple-choice exam.

##### 4. Do I need a textbook for this course?

Yes. Every course in the educational programs offered at California Coast University requires an assigned textbook. To assist students in managing the high costs of textbooks, CCU offers a [rental library](https://www.calcoast.edu/alumni-association-rental-library.html) for all required texts.  
Students can also obtain textbooks in their local areas or through online sources if they do not wish to utilize the University's rental library. There are many resources on the web for renting, purchasing, and selling textbooks. If you would like to purchase your textbooks, or are interested in exploring other delivery methods (digital or pdf versions), we have compiled a handy [Textbook Resource Page](https://www.calcoast.edu/textbook-resources.html) for students who wish to explore other options.

##### 5. Is this an accredited college course?

Yes. California Coast University is accredited by the [Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)](http://www.deac.org/). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency.

##### 6. What should I do if I want more information about this course?

Please [contact us](https://www.calcoast.edu/contact-us.html). You can also download a [CCU Brochure](https://www.calcoast.edu/ccu-bulletin.html) or complete a [Request For Information Form Online](https://www.calcoast.edu/request-for-information-landing.html).