# Harm Reduction Approaches to Substance Use (Online) - Certificate ![Students in discussion.](/sites/default/files/styles/660x400/public/2026-02/061416_4631_Harm-reduction-cert-hero_0.jpg?h=1116cd87&itok=oVjyOT27) Meet people where they are, with care and expertise. Montclair State’s Graduate Certificate in Harm Reduction Approaches to Substance Use is the nation’s first graduate certificate of its kind, designed to close the gap between knowledge and action amid the overdose crisis. The program gives you the tools to support individuals with compassion and evidence-based strategies. Delivered fully online in an asynchronous format, this 9-credit, three-course certificate offers you the flexibility to learn non-stigmatizing, trauma-informed harm reduction strategies while working in related human services fields. **Required Courses in the Harm Reduction Approaches to Substance Use Program:** - **Biomedical and Psychosocial Perspectives on Drugs** - Explore the biomedical and psychosocial dimensions of drug use, learning everything from physiological effects to policy and ethics. - **Harm Reduction Interventions in the Management of Substance Use and Misuse** - Dive into the core principles and global context of harm reduction methods like syringe access, naloxone distribution, medication-assisted treatment, and supervised consumption sites. - **Engaging Individuals Affected by Substance Use and Misuse** - Practice trauma-informed and social-justice engagement strategies, refining your ability to engage without stigma and honor each person's lived experience. Enroll in our Harm Reduction Approaches to Substance Use Program Graduate Certificate program and step into a field where your skills can directly save lives and strengthen communities. [See the curriculum](http://catalog.montclair.edu/programs/harm-reduction-approaches-substance-use-certificate-graduate/). - [Apply Now](https://graduate.montclair.edu/apply/) - [Request Info](https://graduate.montclair.edu/register/grad-inquiry) Program Format Online School or College College for Community Health Area of Study Health, Clinical & Allied Health Social Sciences, Policy & Public Service ## Admission Requirements - Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree. - Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the [international applicants page](/admissions-aid/how-apply-montclair-state-university/international-applicants "International Applicants") to review U.S. degree equivalency information. - \*Students seeking an F1/J1 visa are not eligible for this certificate program unless they are currently pursuing a master's degree at Montclair State University and are able to simultaneously pursue both programs while [maintaining their student visa requirements](https://inside.montclair.edu/resources/global-engagement-office/current-f-1-students/maintaining-f-1-status). ## Admission Checklist - Application Deadline: Rolling admission. - Online Application: [Submit application](https://graduate.montclair.edu/apply/) and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable). - Transcript: One from each college attended. - Undergraduate GPA minimum of 2.5 - Resume: Optional ## Featured Faculty ![](/sites/default/files/styles/260x260/public/profile-photos/2f518e70f5834c4bab4c0d4709405b3c_2.jpeg?h=ead856e3&itok=N8WhcCuS) ### [Svetlana Shpiegel](/faculty-staff/svetlana-shpiegel) - Professor ![](/sites/default/files/styles/260x260/public/profile-photos/Picture1.jpg?h=261314cc&itok=nJRRuJYm) ### [Sara Matsuzaka](/faculty-staff/sara-matsuzaka) - Assistant Professor Go to the previous slide 1/ Go to the next slide ## Make a Difference This first-of-its-kind online graduate-level certificate is designed to certify students and professionals in the practices and principles of harm reduction strategies to fight our nation’s drug overdose crisis. > Montclair State University has a vital role to play in addressing the public health needs not only in our nearby counties but the entire state of New Jersey. As educators, it is our duty to use our resources to help educate our community. Svetlana Shpiegel Professor, Social Work and Child Advocacy: ![hawk icon](/themes/custom/montclair/assets/img/hawk.svg) ## Related Programs - [Social Work](/academics/programs/msw-master-of-social-work) - MSW ## Questions? We're Here to Help. [Graduate Admissions Office](/offices-departments-centers/graduate-admissions-office) Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application. - - Telephone [973-655-5147](tel:973-655-5147) - Address The Graduate Center, 4th Floor [Program Coordinator: Dr. Svetlana Shpiegel](/faculty-staff/svetlana-shpiegel) Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals. - - Address Dickson Hall 370 ## Request Information See where a Montclair education can take you, with personalized details about programs, admissions, financial aid and campus life. [Request Information](/request-info) ### Visit and Connect Tour campus, attend an information session and experience the people, places and possibilities that make Montclair distinctive. - [Explore Visit Opportunities](/admissions-aid/visit-and-tour) ### Apply to Montclair Ready to become a Red Hawk? Find your application, review requirements and take the next step toward your future. - [Apply Now](/apply-montclair-state-university)