College Student Personnel Administration
The College Student Personnel 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 practical experience leading to a Master of Science in College Student Personnel Administration.
While we welcome any out of state candidates, completion of any program, other than an initial licensure program, may not lead to licensure or endorsement in Arkansas or in the state in which you reside. It is your responsibility to check with your state’s department of education to determine if the license or endorsement requirements are met through the program of study. If you are a potential out of state candidate, please contact the program coordinator directly.
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