BHT 210 1 F - Substance Use and Addiction

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Course Information

Substance Use and Addiction (BHT 210)

Term: 2025-2026 School Year Fall Term

Faculty

Tracy Jo Bird
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Education

  • PhD in Health Sciences – University of South Dakota – PhD Candidate, all but dissertation
  • Master of Public Health – University of South Dakota
  • Child & Adult Advocacy Studies Graduate Certificate – University of South Dakota
  • Bachelor of Science – University of Minnesota

Bio

Tracy Bird is an experienced public health professional with interest in child maltreatment prevention and mental and behavioral health and well-being. She currently serves as the Program Director and Instructor for the Behavioral and Mental Health Technician Program at Southeast Technical College. She is motivated to strengthen the knowledge and skills of students in order to promote holistic, evidence-based, trauma-informed care to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals with mental and behavioral health conditions.

Tracy obtained her Bachelor of Science from the University of Minnesota, Master of Public Health from the University of South Dakota (USD), a graduate certificate in Child & Adult Advocacy Studies from USD and is currently completing her dissertation in the USD PhD in Health Sciences program. Her dissertation research focuses on structural and social risk and protective factors impacting crossover youth who have touched both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

Previously, Tracy spent nearly five years conducting longitudinal, community-based maternal and child health research studies, taught macro-level public health prevention graduate courses, led statewide maternal and child health prevention programs, and has worked directly with healthcare patients, victims of maltreatment, individuals with disabilities, and homeless youth.

Office Hours

2025 | Summer Semester

  • Tuesdays, 2:30-4:30pm | HC 208
  • Thursdays, 2:30-4:30pm | HC 208

Schedule

Tue-Thu, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM (8/25/2025 - 12/12/2025) Location: SF SULLI 227

Description

This course will examine the biological, psychological, social and cultural factors that contribute to substance use disorders and addiction. The content will cover best practices in prevention, assessment, counseling and treatment of addictions throughout the lifespan. An emphasis will focus on alcohol use disorder, co-occurring disorders, integrated treatment, and current models of addiction. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications, students will develop a well-rounded perspective, fostering critical thinking and empathy when working with individuals with substance use disorders.