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Student Affairs Track

This full-time option is ideal for recent college graduates with student affairs experience gained through undergraduate involvement, as well as individuals from diverse backgrounds looking to build a strong foundation in the field.

It allows you to integrate your graduate coursework with an assistantship and practicum, providing valuable hands-on professional experience. Additionally, graduate assistants benefit from a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend.

Higher Education Leadership Track

This part-time option is an excellent choice for current student affairs professionals or those looking for a flexible learning format to advance or start their careers in higher education. It's also available to students participating in the external graduate assistantship program. This track gives you the flexibility to balance your professional goals with your personal commitments.

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.

• Student Affairs Track (In Person) process
• Higher Education Leadership Track (Online) process

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

Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Students who graduate from the College Student Personnel program at °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÀúÊ·¼Ç¼ will be able to:

• Describe the concepts and principles of student development and learning theories that advance intrapersonal, interpersonal, and cognitive complexity;
• Articulate histories, values, and philosophies of higher education;
• Identify approaches to address contemporary issues facing higher education;
• Define and assess organizational and human resources including, but not limited to: policies, practices, procedures, and structures;
• Gather, apply, and deploy methods of research and assessment to improve, shape, and benefit student learning and higher education; and
• Demonstrate leadership (as a role and process) to create learning environments (virtual or in-person) that support the inclusion of all students and members of campus communities while attending to issues of privilege, power, and oppression.

Theory to practice refers to the learning focus of applying theoretical frameworks, research, and professional dispositions learned in the classroom to real-world practical experiences in higher education and student affairs. This approach challenges students to not only understand the theoretical underpinnings of their work, but also effectively translate these concepts into actionable strategies, interventions and solutions in their professional roles.

We emphasize the practical application of academic theories to real-world scenarios, enhancing students’ ability to address complex issues and effectively support their institutions and students. For example, developmental theory can help students design programs and individual interventions that support students’ growth. In addition, crisis management models, organizational theories, and leadership conceptual frameworks help students respond to campus emergencies and negotiate the political environment, as well as assist organizations with meeting  emerging challenges in higher education. Learn more about how the CSP program infuses theory to practice into everything we do.