Prime Highlights:
Medicine Hat College (MHC) introduces an Addictions Counselling diploma program starting Fall 2025.
The Alberta government allocated approximately $580,000 as part of a $10 million initiative to expand mental health support in post-secondary institutions.
Key Background:
Medicine Hat College (MHC) will launch a new Addictions Counselling diploma program in Fall 2025, addressing the growing need for addiction support in Southeast Alberta. The initiative, announced by the Government of Alberta, is part of a $10 million targeted enrolment expansion aimed at strengthening mental health services across the province’s post-secondary institutions. The funding, approximately $580,000, will enable MHC to offer 50 new seats, with the first cohort of 25 students set to begin in Fall 2025 and the second cohort in 2026.
Dr. Nancy Brown, MHC’s Vice-President Academic and Provost, emphasized the importance of this one-time investment, noting that it will help the college respond to the increasing challenges related to addictions. “The addition of an Addictions Counselling diploma complements our existing programs and enhances our ability to support rural health education in Southeast Alberta,” she said.
MHC brings significant experience to this initiative, having previously delivered relevant training in addictions counselling and mental health. The new program will be based on an established curriculum from Northern Lakes College, with components aligned with the Alberta Recovery Model. It will also integrate Indigenous healing practices and incorporate the Brain Story, a body of research from the Palix Foundation and Alberta Family Wellness Initiative focused on brain development and lifelong health.
Dr. Jason Openo, Dean of the School of Health and Community Services, explained that the program’s unique approach addresses mental and physical health, improving relationships, and understanding the cultural and spiritual disturbances linked to addiction. “This new program will be tailored to the region, with practicums that focus on supporting local community agencies, further enhancing the practical experience for students,” he added.
