Influences on behaviour change, including policy, legal, educational, psychosocial and pharmacological approaches will be examined. Current and emerging themes are paid attention and the evidence base scrutinised, including: harm reduction recovery treatment within the criminal justice system blood-borne viruses mental health child protection The philosophy which underpins the course is that all drug problems, including alcohol or other related problems, involve an interaction between the drug, the individual and the environment, providing a critical perspective on substance use.

UWS qualifications in Alcohol and Drug Studies are sought after and a high proportion of full-time students gain employment soon after graduation.The opportunity to complete an assessed placement in a research or service setting underpins the employability focus of the programmes.