Curriculum

Program Rationale:

The mission of the student development master's degree program is to prepare graduates to function effectively as student development specialists in rapidly changing institutions of higher education. Students are trained to understand and to meet the developmental needs of college students, taking into account worldviews and expectations which are influenced by age, ethnic background, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, and other "non-traditional" perspectives. Graduates are prepared to function as student affairs professionals in higher education settings, such as student activities, academic advising, career counseling, orientation, first-year experience programs, residence halls, and learning centers.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Students in the program are expected to:

• demonstrate knowledge of theory, practice, and ethical standards relative to the practice of student development in higher education;
• demonstrate appropriate counseling, advising, and group facilitation techniques for use with students, staff, and faculty in higher education;
• demonstrate the ability to collaborate with colleagues throughout their institutions for purposes of creating and assessing learning experiences for students;
• identify a wide range of world views based on culture and life experience, including their own, and use this understanding to communicate effectively across cultural and personal differences; and
• demonstrate knowledge of federal and state laws pertinent to roles and functions of student affairs professionals and to the responsible management of colleges and universities.

Admission Requirements for Student Development in Higher Education

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Admissions to the School Counseling, Clinical Professional Counseling, and Student Development in Higher Education programs are made on a competitive basis only one time per year. All applications must be completed and received by February 1 for summer admission. Candidates for admission will be considered on the basis of the following criteria:

1. Grade point average: Minimum 2.70 grade point average (GPA) for all undergraduate courses and a 3.00 for all graduate courses, based on a 4.00 point scale where A is 4.00
2. Three recommendations from individuals able to testify to the student’s suitability as a prospective counselor.
3. A 2–3 page typewritten (double spaced) essay describing the following:

       a. Reasons for entering the counseling profession.
       b. Personal and professional experiences that influenced you to pursue the counseling profession.
       c. Personal characteristics you believe will contribute to your success as a counselor.

    4. A personal interview by the program’s faculty admissions committee. The committee will assess the student’s personal attributes and life experiences that might  contribute to the student’s potential for success as a professional counselor.

The admissions application, application fee, and official transcripts from each college/university (except CCSU) where any course has been taken must be sent directly to the Graduate Recruitment and Admissions Office.

Instructions for uploading the essay and for obtaining and submitting the recommendation letters will be found within the graduate online application.
 

Contact: 860-832-2154

Course and Capstone Requirements

Total Credit Hours: 42-45