CSP: Student Affairs Track

Student Affairs Track (In-Person, Full-Time)

The full-time CSP program at WIU is designed for soon-to-be or recently graduated undergraduate students who are eager to dive into the field of student affairs. This immersive experience blends coursework with practical, hands-on learning, allowing you to apply theory to real-world situations.

Whether you're passionate about student engagement or belonging, residence life, career services, or other campus initiatives, our program provides a dynamic environment where you can explore different areas of the field. Through class projects, volunteer opportunities, professional development, and optional graduate assistantship and/or internship, you'll gain the skills, connections, and confidence needed to launch a successful career in student affairs.

The cohort model is a cornerstone of the CSP experience. You'll join a group of approximately 10-15 peers who will engage with you in class discussions, collaborate in study sessions, attend campus events you help organize, and support you through graduation and beyond. Our students bring diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and professional experiences, coming to Western from across the United States and around the world. Here, you'll be immersed in a community of new ideas and perspectives.

  • This is a 42-credit, high-residency, full-time graduate school option based on the WIU-Macomb campus.
  • The curriculum meets CAS standards, which offer essential guidelines for graduate programs in student affairs, ensuring alignment with professional competencies and best practices in higher education.
  • Experiential learning opportunities provide hands-on training experiences during the two years in the program, preparing students to be competitive candidates for careers in student affairs.
  • The CSP program was established in 1970 and has graduated over 1,000 alumni with a 99% post-graduation placement rating.
  • As the culminating experience for the CSP program, students create a portfolio that is representative of their knowledge, growth, and professional development throughout their graduate school experience.

I thoroughly enjoyed going to class! Every day was an opportunity to learn. It was the best part of my week. I got to destress, consult and get advice from my cohort members and lecturers on anything happening in my assistantship and, of course, learn more about student affairs. Particularly as an international student, I always felt that my viewpoint and input was valued in the classroom and on campus and so much was done to help me acclimate to a different educational system. I am truly thankful for the master's experience that I got. –

 Nikisha Smith, Class of 2024

Student Affairs Track FAQ

 

Looking for our part-time option, CSP: Higher Education Leadership?

Degree Requirements  |  Course Descriptions  |  Graduate Catalog - College Student Personnel

Did Your College Journey Make a Lasting Impact?

Take your experience to the next level with:

  • Exceptional Curriculum: Set the benchmark for excellence in student affairs
  • Cohort Experience: Thrive in a supportive learning community with diverse perspectives.
  • Esteemed Faculty: Benefit from the wisdom of student affairs experts.
  • Theory to Practice: Develop firsthand skills through assistantships and practicum.
  • Holistic Support: Recharge and attend events on career growth, wellness, and unity.
  • Equity and Inclusion: Create an equitable and empathetic education experience for all.

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