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CertHE Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work (Part Time)

Marketing Title
14/09/2026
Format
16/06/2028
Format
Level 4
Part-Time
HS1003A25P (2026/2028)
Accrington & Rossendale College - Accrington & Rossendale College, Broad Oak Campus, Broad Oak Road, Accrington, BB5 2AS
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Course Information

Course Information
The CertHE Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work is designed for individuals seeking to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work within the expanding fields of health, social care, and community support. This programme provides an introduction to the frameworks, policies, and practices that shape responses to alcohol and substance misuse, preparing you for meaningful roles in frontline services.

You will explore key themes such as health and social policy, safeguarding, community support, and professional practice, while developing transferable skills in communication, analysis, and reflective practice. Learning is strongly applied, encouraging you to connect theory with practice through work-related experience and case study analysis.

The course has been shaped in consultation with employers, ensuring you gain relevant, workplace-ready skills that support both immediate employment opportunities and further study. It also serves as a clear pathway to the FdA Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work and related higher-level qualifications.
Introduction to Substance Misuse – exploring the social, health, and psychological impact of alcohol and drug use.

Health and Social Policy – examining policies and frameworks that guide practice in substance misuse work.

Safeguarding and Professional Practice – ensuring the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals and communities.

Community and Support Services – understanding the role of outreach, rehabilitation, and recovery services.

Work-Related Learning – linking academic study to practical experience through placements or voluntary roles.

Academic and Research Skills – developing study, enquiry, and critical thinking skills to support higher education.
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials with independent study, ensuring a balance of academic knowledge and applied skills. Lectures introduce key theories, frameworks, and debates, while seminars and workshops provide opportunities for discussion, case study analysis, and group learning.

Work-related learning is a central part of delivery, enabling you to apply your studies to practical contexts through voluntary roles or placements within health and social care. Skills-based sessions encourage you to explore professional approaches to safeguarding, rehabilitation, and recovery services, while tutorials provide tailored support to guide your progress.

Blended learning, including access to digital resources and research databases, further develops your independence, critical thinking, and reflective practice.
Candidates are selected on the basis of their ability to cope with and benefit from the programme. Their suitability can be demonstrated either through previous educational achievement or through experience and aptitude.

Admission by prior qualification will normally require a minimum 32 UCAS Tariff points. Typically, points can be derived from:

- One GCE A level or Vocational A level pass or equivalent
- Two AS level passes
- BTEC National Diploma/Certificate
- Other qualifications such as Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificates, International Baccalaureate, with the required UCAS points
- A pass in a recognised Access course
- Equivalent Scottish or Irish qualifications

GCSE Maths and English grade C or above, or equivalent are required to support future career progression.

Admission by experience and aptitude will be based on the length and type of the candidate’s employment experience and their ability to demonstrate an aptitude and enthusiasm for the subject. As part of this process, candidates may be required to undertake aptitude tests and/or to provide personal and/or employment references.

Candidates whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate English language competence equivalent to IELTS 5.5 or higher.
Essays and written assignments – analysing policies, frameworks, and approaches to substance misuse.

Reports and case studies – applying theory to real-world practice and service delivery.

Presentations and seminar contributions – developing communication skills and professional confidence.

Portfolios of work-related learning – evidencing reflection, applied skills, and voluntary or placement experience.

Group projects and discussions – encouraging teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.
Outstanding Support – Benefit from one-to-one academic guidance, wellbeing services, and tailored careers advice throughout your studies.

Strong University Partnership – This course is validated by Liverpool John Moore University.

Specialist Facilities – Access purpose-built learning environments a VR suite, and a dedicated University Centre.

Proven Success – Students achieve some of the highest satisfaction and progression rates in the region, moving into employment or postgraduate study.

Financial and Practical Help – From bursaries and equipment loans to free breakfast and gym access, we provide wide-ranging support to help you succeed.
Graduates of the CertHE Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work are well-prepared for entry-level roles within health, social care, and community services. Career opportunities include working as a Support Worker, Community Outreach Assistant, or Rehabilitation Support Practitioner, with employment available in local authorities, charities, and health organisations.

The qualification also enhances opportunities for those already working in the sector, supporting progression and promotion. Many students choose to continue their studies with the FdA Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work or related higher-level qualifications, creating pathways into more senior roles such as Recovery Coordinator, Substance Misuse Practitioner, or Service Manager.
As a CertHE Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work student, you will study within our dedicated University Centre, featuring modern classrooms, IT suites, and collaborative study areas designed to support higher-level learning. The Learning Resource Centre offers access to specialist texts, journals, and online databases in health and social care, supported by experienced staff to help you develop your academic and research skills.

You will also benefit from quiet study spaces, group work rooms, and welcoming social areas, as well as tailored academic and wellbeing support. These facilities create an environment that encourages both independent learning and collaboration with peers.
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