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University Workforce Development Program

Supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

We are pleased to announce that the graduate counseling program at Waynesburg University was awarded the University Workforce Development grant. The University Workforce Development Program (UWDP) is supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) as part of an award totaling $1,000,000 over a 28-month period effective April 2025.

Program Purpose

The purpose of the UWDP is to address critical workforce shortages in substance use disorder (SUD) counseling. Through collaboration with DDAP, this program:

  • Reduces financial barriers to graduate education
  • Prepares skilled, compassionate SUD counselors
  • Expands access to care in high-need and medically underserved communities

Make an impact. Advance your career. Serve your community.

Waynesburg University is committed to expanding access to graduate education and strengthening the behavioral health workforce. Individuals from underrepresented, underserved and diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Scholars enrolled in this program will have a unique concentration in SUD counseling which will prepare them to be champions in the behavioral health field. The program will support advancement of counselors working from a trauma-informed lens. Scholars will gain essential skills to effectively address the needs of individuals presenting with SUD and/or co-occurring conditions as well as their families, loved ones and concerned community members. Upon completion of the program, students will be well positioned to become Nationally Certified Counselors (NCC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC), as well as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC).

Stipends & Tuition Support Available

Approximately 50 students enrolled in Waynesburg University’s UWDP may receive up to $6,400 per semester to support their graduate education as they earn their Master of Arts in Counseling through the University’s addiction counseling program.


How to Apply

Current Waynesburg University Master of Arts in Counseling students participating in substance use disorder counseling can apply to the UWDP. To apply, students must submit the following:

  • UWDP Application
  • Student Commitment Letter

Application Deadlines

  • Applications for the Spring, Summer and Fall semesters will be determined on a rolling admission basis.
  • You will be notified as to whether or not your application to the program was accepted or denied no sooner than one month prior to the start of the semester.

Who should I contact?

Grant Project Director

Dr. Kelley McNichols

Assistant Director of Graduate Counseling Programs
Assistant Professor of Counseling and Grant Advisor

Email: kelley.mcnichols@waynesburg.edu
Phone: (724) 743-7611