Northwestern State University

What you'll study

Candidates study foundational and applied topics that develop competencies in student learning and development, advising, assessment, ethics, technology, leadership, and governance. Core course examples named in the program materials include:

• Introduction to Student Affairs — principles, career pathways, philosophy, and core competencies in student affairs practice.
• History of Higher Education — key events shaping U.S. higher education and their effects on access, diversity, and opportunity.
• The American College Student — developmental theory and approaches to working with students, including how individual characteristics interact with the college environment.

The program description also highlights training in areas such as academic advising, student engagement, career services, residence life, orientation, and assessment—allowing customization toward specific student affairs functions.

Entry requirements

The publicly posted program page does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective applicants should contact NSU Admissions for official entry requirements, application materials, and any prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates are positioned for coordinator, assistant director, and director roles across student affairs. Typical positions cited include academic support advisor, student engagement director, career services coordinator, and leadership in areas such as financial aid, Greek life, orientation, and residence life.

Scholarships & funding angle

The program page does not specify scholarships or funding options. Applicants should consult NSU’s admissions and financial aid offices to learn about available graduate assistantships, institutional scholarships, employer tuition benefits, and external funding sources applicable to graduate students in student affairs.