Student Affairs in Higher Education and College Student Development
Master's Degree in College Student Development
The M.S. in college student development is designed to prepare the student for work in student affairs units in higher education institutions and to assist the student to meet the professional entry-level and advancement requirements in the field. Students complete 24 hours of core courses and also select one of three 15-hour options. The advising option is most appropriate for those intending primarily to provide developmental counseling/advising services within a college or university. The administration option is more appropriate for those intending to work as student services/programs administrators. The option in student services in intercollegiate athletics is appropriate for those who wish to pursue a career working with college student athletes.
Student Learning Outcomes:
The student learning outcomes addressed in the program's assessment of student learning plan are as follows:
1. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the philosophy and history of the student affairs profession.
2. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the values, beliefs, and guiding ethical principles of the student affairs profession.
3. Students will demonstrate knowledge of how to apply student development theories in college and university settings.
4. Students will demonstrate knowledge of interpersonal and helping skills in working with college and university students.
→ CSD MS Assessment Alignment Matrix (PDF)
→ Transition Points for the M.S. in College Student Personnel Work
Doctoral Degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education
The Ph.D. in student affairs in higher education is designed for educators, administrators, direct service providers, and leaders who seek to enhance their knowledge and professional skills to assume positions in institutions of higher education, or in education-related agencies. The Ph.D. program is for the advanced student who desires to contribute to the knowledge base of higher education and leadership through a thorough grounding in conducting research. The program emphasizes professional practice in higher education guided and informed by theory and research.
Student Learning Outcomes:
The student learning outcomes addressed in the program's assessment of student learning plan are as follows:
1. Recognize student development theories and apply them appropriately to diverse college environments.
2. Recognize and apply organizational, legal, and fiscal interventions for individuals, units, or institutions.
3. Understand research designs and data analysis components relevant to student development or college administration concerns.
