Candidates are evaluated for admission on academic ability and achievements, student affairs knowledge and experience, and personal attributes necessary to successfully complete the program and thrive in the field of student affairs. Various factors play into the admission decision, such as a professional resume, personal goals statement, academic transcript, letters of recommendation, the Graduate Studies application, and a personal interview.

Questions regarding the application process or the receipt of application materials should be directed to CSP@wiu.edu or the program coordinator at (309) 298-2082.

Please review the following steps for specific application instructions. You must submit ALL of the following materials:

• Application for admission with the School of Graduate Studies
• Personal Goals Statement: In 500-700 words, please address the following prompt - When choosing a graduate program, you are choosing an intellectual and professional community where you believe you can learn and develop. How do you see the College Student Personnel program at WIU contributing to your professional goals of working in student affairs or higher education?
• Three Letters of Recommendation: These recommendations should be from individuals who can address your skills, potential for success in the field of student affairs, maturity, and level of responsibility. At least one reference should be from a faculty member familiar with your academic ability. (If you are completing the form through Graduate Studies, your recommenders will receive an email with further instructions.)
• Resume: Please make sure to update the document by including your most recent positions and achievements.
• Official transcript(s): You must request an official transcript(s) of all previous undergraduate or graduate coursework completed at any college or university. Send them to School of Graduate Studies, Sherman Hall 116, Macomb, IL 61455. Email Grad-Office@wiu.edu for details.

If you are unable to submit your personal goals statement, resume, and letters of recommendation at the time of your application submission (preferred method), you may alternatively submit these documents directly to the CSP program at csp@wiu.edu

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not a requirement for admission to the program.

As a candidate, it is your responsibility to check on the status of your application to be sure all materials arrive.

Application Process Timeline  

Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis for each semester and summer. (Students with an external assistantship should have their application submitted by May 1 as they start in the fall only.) We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds bringing diverse mindsets and professional experiences. Cohort members come to Western from all over the United States and the world.

You will apply theories and concepts gained in the classroom to real-life student affairs work on a daily basis. You will gain professional skills, concepts, and knowledge to become outstanding student affairs practitioners who facilitate the learning and development of students.

Course Rotation for Students Beginning Fall 2024

Fall 2024	CSP 552: Intro to Student Affairs & Higher Education History (3) CSP 555: Advising and Helping Skills (3)
Spring 2025	CN 515: Research and Program Evaluation (3) CSP 559: Student Development Theory in Praxis (4)
Summer 2025	CSP 598: Assessment in Student Affairs (3) CSP 560: Student Engagement & College Environments (3)
Fall 2025	CSP 553: Organization & Administration of CSP (3) CSP 565: Critical Theories in Praxis (4)
Spring 2026	CSP 550: Legal Issues in Student Affairs (3) CSP 600: Professional Development Seminar (3)
Summer 2026	CSP 533: Special Topics in Student Affairs (3) CSP 581: Group Dynamics and Leadership (3)

Please note that the course rotation will be different if you enroll in the program other than the fall semester.

 

CSP has several alumni-funded scholarships for our students. Learn more about them at the alumni section of our website.

You can find additional information about funding sources at the Graduate Studies website.