The Rohde Mark PhD program at the Arizona University School of Medicine offers the students an opportunity to develop an extensive understanding of the field of medicine through extensive research of the sciences, as well as clinical practice. As such, it would be imperative that they would have a sound understanding of the science behind addiction. To this end, they will be trained in the various disciplines involved in the treatment of addictions and alcoholism.
The program is divided into two tracks, the first being the Master of Science in Substance Abuse Treatment Programs. In this track, students are given the opportunity to specialize in one particular area of addiction treatment. This includes clinical research, substance abuse research, treatment research, development of a treatment protocol, assessment and evaluation of the patient, the development of treatment programs and care, and education of the patient. Upon graduation, the student will be able to work as a Clinical Research Assistant within the Substance Abuse Program and as a Program Specialist in the Addiction Medicine Unit.
In addition, they will be able to apply their knowledge of substance abuse to alcohol related issues. This includes issues like binge eating and bulimia nervosa. They will also be able to conduct research on alcohol use disorders and how these relate to substance abuse. Once they have completed their studies, they will be able to apply their research findings to a variety of health related areas including nutrition and diet, weight management, mental health, psychology, and alcohol rehabilitation. The courses involved in the program also include lectures, laboratory exercises and lab sessions, and hands-on training sessions.