College of Education & Human Services

Using Theory to Practice in the CSP Program

Connecting Scholars and Practitioners

Integration of Theory and Practice

  • Application of Theoretical Models: Learn various theoretical models related to student development, leadership, and organizational development. In our CSP 565: Critical Theories and Praxis course, interview undergraduates and then use identity theories and critical theory frameworks to empathize with and interact more developmentally with students.
  • Case Studies and Simulations: Coursework often includes case studies and simulations that allow you to practice applying theoretical knowledge to hypothetical or real scenarios. In the CSP 600: Professional Development (Capstone), use a case study framework to analyze, present, and discuss scenarios across functional areas.

Practical Experience

  • Internships and Practicums: We require you to complete practicum experiences, as well as support you in acquiring a graduate assistantship and summer internship where you work in student affairs roles. For example, you may hold an assistantship in residence life, student success, fraternity and sorority life, admissions, academic advising, and or other areas across campus.  In addition, you may opt to participate in summer internships from California to Massachusetts.
  • Fieldwork and Projects: You will work on real projects or program initiatives within you practicum, assistantship site, volunteer work, and internship settings where you address current issues or develop new programs using the conceptual frameworks you studied.

Reflexive Practice

  • Critical Reflection: You are encouraged to reflect on theoretical concepts in light of your own lived experiences. For example, before applying theory to others, you will write reflective essays or participate in discussion groups where you analyze how your past personal experiences and professional practices align with or challenge theoretical models.
  • Supervision and Feedback: Regular supervision and feedback from experienced professionals, including faculty, helps you connect theory to practice. For example, the portfolio you complete in your final semester is used to illustrate how you have used concepts in practice, and you are provided summative feedback from faculty. The portfolio is also often used when interviewing for professional positions.

Professional Development

  • Workshops and Seminars: You will have the opportunity to attend webinars, workshops, and seminars provided by alumni and other professionals in the field who provide expert insight into best practices in higher education and student affairs. For example, alumni have provided career placement advice and a variety of other topics each semester.
  • Networking and Mentoring: Our vast alumni network is the best in the country. We have alumni who serve as presidents, vice-president, or directors of nearly every functional area imaginable, as well as faculty teaching in programs coast to coast. These alumni not only allow you to engage with professionals in the field through networking events or mentoring relationships, but they are valuable in the job search and summer internship placement process.

Examples of
Theory to Practice

With knowledge gained through the CSP program:

  • Apply theories like Chickering’s Seven Vectors to design developmental programs that support students' growth through their college years.
  • Use crisis management theories to develop and implement protocols for handling emergencies or student crises.
  • Implement transformational leadership theories to inspire and motivate student leaders in campus organizations.

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Benefits to a
Theory to Practice Approach

  • By applying theory to real-world problems, you develop better problem-solving skills and are able to respond more creatively and effectively.
  • Gaining practical experience helps you become more sophisticated in your career and promotes a professional disposition for advancing to higher-level roles.
  • Understanding and applying conceptual frameworks and theories allows you to make informed decisions based on evidence and best practices, improving your effectiveness in professional positions.