Colleges with Recovery Support Services

Colleges That Offer Recovery Support Services for Students in Recovery

For many young adults, college represents independence, discovery, and growth—but for students in recovery from addiction, it can also be a time filled with unique challenges. Academic pressure, social influences, and the stress of transitioning into adulthood can make maintaining sobriety difficult without proper support. That’s why recovery support services on college campuses are essential.

The recovery movement in higher education is bigger than ever, with more than 150 established Collegiate Recovery Programs. Learn how these programs got started!

Why Recovery Support Services Matter in College

College students in recovery often face stigma, social isolation, and triggers that can threaten their progress. Without a supportive environment, relapse becomes a real risk. Thankfully, an increasing number of colleges and universities are recognizing this need and have established Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) to provide structured, ongoing support for students who are choosing a substance-free lifestyle.

These programs offer a safe community, counseling resources, peer mentorship, and sober social activities—all helping students succeed both academically and personally. Many programs also offer mutual-aid support group meetings, sober living residences, dedicated sober lounge and dining spaces, academic support, and scholarships for students in recovery.

The benefits of recovery support in college include:

• Increased retention and graduation rates for students in recovery

• Reduced relapse rates through peer accountability and mentorship

• Improved mental health and life satisfaction

• A strong sense of belonging and purpose

Colleges Offering Recovery Support Services

Across the country, many universities are leading the way in supporting students in recovery. Here are just a few standout examples:

• The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill -- Carolina Recovery

• Penn State University -- Collegiate Recovery Community

• University of Delaware -- Collegiate Recovery Community

• The University of Texas, Dallas -- Center for Students in Recovery

• Rutgers University -- Recovery House

• University of Vermont -- Catamount Recovery Resources

• University of Michigan -- Collegiate Recovery Program

• Florida State University -- Collegiate Recovery Community, LIFT (Living Intentionally, Finding Togetherness)

• University of Oregon -- Collegiate Recovery Center

• University of Houston -- Cougars in Recovery

How to Find Colleges with Recovery Programs

If you’re exploring colleges that offer addiction recovery support, the Collegiate Recovery Directory is an invaluable resource. Maintained by the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE), this directory lists hundreds of schools with detailed descriptions of their recovery services, including:

• Recovery housing and sober dorms

• Peer mentoring and recovery coaching

• Counseling and mental health services

• Sober social events and support groups

You can filter schools by location, program type, and available support services to find the best fit for your goals.

Check out a list of colleges and universities with recovery programs!

The Future of Recovery-Friendly Campuses

The movement toward recovery-friendly campuses is growing rapidly. Universities are realizing that providing recovery support isn’t just about reducing substance use—it’s about helping students thrive. Recovery-friendly schools create a culture of compassion, resilience, and holistic wellness that benefits everyone on campus.

Whether you’re a student in recovery, a counselor helping clients plan for the future, or a parent supporting a loved one’s journey, know that higher education and recovery can coexist. With the right college recovery program, students can build a strong foundation for a sober, successful life.