Program Requirements

This program is open to individuals with lived experience with mental illness with or without co-occurring substance use disorder.

Admission Requirements for the CRSS Pipeline Program

  • In recovery from substance use disorder and/or mental illness for one year
  • Strong desire to help others in similar situations
  • At least 18 years old
  • High school diploma or GED

Program Completion Requirements

  • Access to a computer with camera and internet access for virtual classes.*
  • 100 hours of classroom coursework.
  • 44 additional training hours provided by SIU and the student's apprenticeship site.
  • Passing either the CRSS or CPRS exam administered by the Illinois Certification Board.
  • 2000 hours of a paid apprenticeship - participants will receive an Apprenticeship Completion Certificate and be recognized nationwide as a certified journeyworker.


*Classes will be held once a week during SIU School of Medicine business hours from August–May.

Apprenticeship Sites

Our current U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship partners are:

SIU School of Medicine will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information, or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years old or older. SIU School of Medicine will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30.