Merritt College's Community Social Services/Substance Abuse Associate in Arts (AA) Degree is designed to prepare students for employment in entry level paraprofessional positions providing counseling, case management, crisis management, and relapse prevention services to substance abuse clients. The program also offers further training for persons already employed in the field. The program requirements comply with CAADE (California Association on Alcohol and Drug Education) guidelines. Community Social Services/Substance Abuse is offered both for the Associate degree and the certificate.

Career opportunities may include employment in entry-level paraprofessional positions providing counseling, case management, crisis management, and relapse prevention services to substance abuse clients.