College Student Personnel Services & Administration
The College Student Personnel Services and Administration (CSPA) program provides professional preparation for students seeking student services positions in both two-year and four-year postsecondary institutions. The program is interdisciplinary to prepare student services administrators for diverse areas of responsibility, including campus climate and diversity, finance, budgeting, grant writing, assessment, leadership, and legal/ethical issues.
Consistent with the standards and beliefs stated by ACPA: College Student Educators International, NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, and the Council for the Advancement of Standards (CAS), UCA’s course of study offers opportunities to experience the exciting relationship between theory and practice. Students are expected to meet the intellectual challenges of coursework, assistantships, and professional involvement, while participating in learning experiences leading to an understanding of college student development, collegiate subcultures, organizational dynamics, and the nature of higher education.
The CSPA specialization provides coursework and practica leading to a Master of Science in College Student Personnel Services and Administration.
Cohort Model
The CSPA program follows a cohort model in which approximately 15-20 students are admitted to pursue courses concurrently. Students take their classes with the members in their cohort during the two-year track.
Students benefit from:
- Mutual academic and emotional support for program success and timely completion
- Camaraderie and collaborative learning with experienced colleagues
- Lasting personal ties and professional networks that aid in career development and ongoing professional growth