Program Mission: The mission of the M.S. in College Student Affairs is to provide a dynamic curriculum for students interested in leadership careers in the field of student affairs in higher education.  The program provides a strong foundation for knowledge and skills development needed for effective administration, efficient use of technology, and humanistic support of undergraduate and graduate education. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared for entry and mid-level student affairs positions in post-secondary public and private education as well as state and federal agencies.  Some students also decide to pursue additional studies in Ph.D. programs and other terminal degrees.

Admission Requirements: To be eligible for degree candidacy, applicants must meet all of the requirements for admission to the Graduate School (see “Admission to Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs”).  In addition, students must:

• Complete and submit the departmental admission application;
• Submit two departmental recommendation forms from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or work performance; 
  
• Attend a pre-admission orientation and interview; and
• Obtain a graduate assistantship appointment.*
• Additionally, the successful applicant must demonstrate strong study skills, experience working with groups, evidence of leadership abilities, and commitment and desire to have a career as a student affairs professional.

*All students admitted to the CSA degree program are required to have either a graduate assistantship or submit evidence of fulltime employment in college student affairs or closely related area.

Degree Audit: The graduate plan of study is the EIU Degree Audit, which is generated automatically in the Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS) at the time of degree or certificate candidacy. Modifications of the standard EIU Degree Audit are submitted by the graduate coordinator to the certification officer in the Graduate School at the time modifications are approved. The Degree Audit serves as an unofficial summary of requirements for the program. Degree and certificate candidates are advised to review the comprehensive summary of the Degree Audit process specified on the “Requirements for All Degree and Certificate Candidates” section of the Graduate Catalog. Individual programs may require candidates to submit plans of study in addition to the Degree Audit, candidates should consult with the program coordinator.

Program Course Restriction: Courses 5540 and above are open only to students who have been admitted to the Department of Counseling and Student Development or who have permission of the Department Chair.