This program is offered by the Department of Administration, Rehabilitation and Postsecondary Education, in collaboration with the Division of Student Affairs. The MA prepares students for effective administrative, practitioner, management and leadership positions in the higher education field of Student Affairs.

Program Overview

The master’s program in Postsecondary Educational Leadership with a Specialization in Students Affairs includes a sound base in student development theory and research, as well as practical applications. All students are required to complete two internships. Internships are an integral part of the program. A limited number of graduate assistantships are available.

SDSU’s program intends to graduate leaders who have the professional skills and personal commitment to effectively recruit, retain and help students realize their full academic and personal potential. The themes of leadership in the context of working with diverse learners in diverse environments, and responsiveness to college and university students of the future, are key learning principles throughout the program.

This program prepares graduates to work in the field of Student Affairs in higher education, including positions in: campus diversity programs, housing and residential life, student activities, leadership development programs, student recruitment, new student orientation programs, parent/family programs, career services, and more.

The Faculty

The faculty of the ARPE department, in collaboration with key personnel in Student Affairs and senior university administrators, have a rich array of experience, skills and knowledge.

The expertise of the faculty includes leadership, governance, student services, vocational education, community college issues, and issues related to individuals with disabilities. The faculty collaborate in program planning, and are actively involved in ongoing projects, research, writing, publications, grants and local and national and international education efforts.

Program Curriculum

A minimum of 30 units to include:

1. Core Program (6-9 units selected from the following:

ARP 605 Postsecondary Education (3)
Philosophy, history, aims, scope, function, outcomes, principles and challenges of postsecondary education. Emphasizes teaching and leadership in postsecondary education.

ARP 610 Educational Leadership (3)
Concepts and techniques of leadership, analysis of factors and practice in the procedures of individual and group leadership as applied to educational environments.

ARP 620 Introduction to Student Affairs in Higher Education (3)
Historical roots, diversification of institutions and students, and philosophical foundations of the field, guiding values, key legal principles and theoretical bases; functional areas with Student Affairs, their evolution, purpose, professional associations, standards and current issues.

2. Nine to twelve units selected, with the approval of the graduate adviser, from the following:

ARP 621 Theoretical Foundations of Student Affairs (3)
Examines major theoretical systems in Student Affairs, including student personnel point of view, student development, and the student leaning imperative.

ARP 622 Communication and Group Process in Student Affairs Leadership (3)
Introduces students to four domains of communication and leadership: interpersonal, intrapersonal, small group, and organizational dynamics. Addresses assessment techniques and intervention strategies for each domain.

ARP 623 Seminar: Critical Leadership Issues in Student Affairs (3)
Current topics and issues critical to effective leadership in Student Affairs, academic mission of higher education and creating supportive learning environments for students.

ARP 747 Educational Leadership in a Diverse Society (3)
Current theory and practice in meeting needs of diverse learners. Leadership and administration of educational organizations s political, complex systems requiring consensus-building dynamics in a multicultural society.

ARP 680 Seminar in Administration, Rehabilitation & Postsecondary Education (3)

ARP 727 Emerging Issues in Educational Leadership

ARP 730 Seminar in Adult Learning

ARP 740 Advanced Seminar in Administration, Rehabilitation & Postsecondary Education (3)

3. Internship (6 units)

ARP 760 Internship in Educational Leadership (3)
Internship for prospective educational leaders.

4. ED 690 Procedures of Investigation and Report

Research methods in education. Location, selection and analysis of professional literature. Methods of investigation, data analysis and reporting.

5. Research: Three to six units selected from the following:

ED 791A Evaluation Techniques (3)
Theory and practice of instructional program and product evaluation.

ED 791B-791C Practicum: Evaluation (3-3) or
Supervised experience in conducting a program or product evaluation, strategy selection, procedures, reporting methods, culminating in a written project.

ED 795A-795B Research Seminar (3-3) or
An intensive study in selected areas of education culminating in a written project.

ED 799A Thesis
Preparation of a project or thesis for the master’s degree.

Admission Requirements

To apply, a student must complete an application for admission to both the university and the Master’s program. Early application to the program is encouraged.

Submit the university application at www.csumentor.edu with fee to:

Graduate Admissions
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-8225

The following materials should be submitted as a complete package:

• Two official transcripts (in sealed envelopes)
• GRE test score
• Department Application
• Three letters of recommendation

Mailed directly to:

Department of Administration, Rehabilitation & Postsecondary Education/Interwork Institute
Attention Postsecondary Education Graduate Adviser
3590 Camino del Rio North
San Diego, CA 92108-1716

For specific questions call the Program office at: 619-594-6115.