First undergraduate course in addiction studies

The first Irish undergraduate degree in addiction studies has been launched in Athlone Institute of Technology.

The three-year degree in applied addiction studies was launched yesterday by journalist Vincent Browne and former soccer international Paul McGrath.

It was developed in response to challenges faced by professionals who work in the area of addiction.

Students will study modules on subjects including eating disorders, addiction and loss, understanding drugs, behavioural addictions, relapse management and drug and alcohol policy in Ireland. They will also complete 300 hours of work placement. The course will be delivered at Athlone Institute and at All Hallow's College, Dublin, in conjunction with the Addiction Training Institute, on a part-time basis from autumn 2007.

At the launch of the degree, Browne said very little had been done by successive governments to fund deprived areas and there had been a failure to acknowledge the devastation of individuals and families that has resulted.

"Ireland suffers from a massive problem with alcohol, with 24 per cent of Irish males exhibiting risky drinking behaviour," Browne said. "There is clear evidence that increasing the price of alcohol reduces consumption, yet the Government won't take action."