Course Descriptions
Course Descriptions
In addition to the courses listed below, the College offers a number of research courses in other programs (pdf).
Consult the University Schedule of Classes for specific days and times.
CSA 501. INTRODUCTION TO COLLEGE STUDENT AFFAIRS (3) This course is intended to introduce students to the field of student affairs. Historical and philosophical foundations of the field, professional standards, guiding theories and models, competencies needed, and current issues will receive attention. In addition, students will be introduced to various functional areas of student affairs through presentations and readings.
CSA 502. ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION IN STUDENT AFFAIRS (3) This course is designed to develop and enhance students’ understanding of the organization and administration of student affairs programs and services through study of key processes and contemporary issues in administration. Course topics will enhance students’ knowledge of student affairs functional areas, administrative skills, standards for best professional practice, and ethical concerns introduced in other CSA courses. Throughout the course students will be required to solve current problems and engage in decision-making. Class activities include a blend of individual and group activities, thoughtful reflection about assigned readings, and student-led group discussions.
CSA 503. STUDENT DEVELOPMENT IN COLLEGE ENVIRONMENTS (3) A stated goal of the student affairs profession is to maximize the development of students both affectively and cognitively. To accomplish this goal, student affairs professionals must have a clear understanding of the developmental issues facing students throughout their lifetimes and the processes by which development and learning occur. Professionals must also be aware of factors that affect development and be able to work with individuals, groups, and organizations within the diverse campus community to establish learning environments conducive to the development of students from a variety of backgrounds. A knowledge of the theories and methods of human development and their applications in college settings will assist student affairs professionals in accomplishing these goals.
CSA 504. RESEARCH AND ASSESSMENT IN STUDENT AFFAIRS (3) Research, assessment, and evaluation are integral in the measurement of quality of student affairs programs in higher education. This course will explore various methodologies in the assessment and evaluation of student affairs programs and practices in post-secondary settings. Qualitative and quantitative approaches will be examined. Students will learn to read, evaluate, critique, and conduct research, assessment, and evaluation related to students and student affairs administration.
CSA 505. CAPSTONE SEMINAR (2) The purpose of this seminar is to provide advanced students with an opportunity to use concepts and theories learned in previously completed coursework, and to understand and analyze current issues facing higher education and student affairs professionals. In addition, this course is designed to assist students in making the transition from graduate student to entry-level professional.
CSA 506. COLLEGE ENVIRONMENTS (3) This course is intended to show how environment can have a powerful, and often an unconscious influence.
CSA 507. Social Justice (3) The primary focus of this course is to provide students with a variety of perspectives regarding issues related to social justice in American higher education.
CSA 595. INTERNSHIP (1-9) Supervised experience in administrative offices, in research, on instructional teams, and in college teaching. Registration contingent upon instructor's approval.
CSA 596. INDIVIDUAL STUDIES (1) Culminating experience for Learning Portfolio development.
CSA 597B. FOUNDATIONS OF ACADEMIC ADVISING (3) Overview of academic advising profession; role of advising in collegiate settings; history, philosophy, theoretical perspectives, models, emerging issues, scholarship, assessment, preparation.
CN ED 516. HELPING SKILLS FOR CSA PROFESSIONALS (3) Develop beginning content knowledge and skills related to practice of active listening, attending, and referral necessary for student affairs work.
HI ED 545. HIGHER EDUCATION IN THE U.S. (3) A basis for all courses in higher education. Current issues are analyzed and trends of the future anticipated.
HIED 552 ADMINISTRATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION (3) Philosophy of administration; principles of scientific management and their application in colleges and universities; case studies of administrative problems
HI ED 554. THE HISTORY OF AMERICAN HIGHER EDUCATION (3) Examination of the development of higher education in the United States against the background of influential social, political, economic, and intellectual forces; major trends and issues.
HI ED 556. HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS AND CLIENTELE (3) Characteristics of higher postsecondary education students and other clientele; changes during postsecondary education years and during college; educational challenges and responses.
