Department of Higher Education

Mission Statement
The Department of Higher Education focuses on preparing the next generation of leaders, scholars, faculty, and student development professionals who will shape colleges and universities across the globe. Together, we strive to be a community of scholars and disciples who make a difference in the world.
Contact
- Email: ccsdprogram@apu.edu
- Phone: (626) 815-5349
Accreditation
- All APU programs in higher education are accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
CCSD 543, Legal and Ethical Issues in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
This course provides an examination of the major legal and ethical issues confronting contemporary student affairs professionals. Emphasis is placed on federal regulations and mandates, constitutional issues, tort liability, contractual relationships, distinctions between public and private sector institutions of higher education, and ethical standards of the student affairs profession.
CCSD 551, Introduction to College Student Affairs, 3 Units
An introduction to and overview of the field of college student affairs is offered with emphasis upon its historical and philosophical foundation, its basic documents, and its primary objectives within American colleges and universities. Students survey and analyze the typical programs and services which the college student affairs field delivers within American colleges and universities.
CCSD 552, The Process Of Adult Development, 3 Units
Students study and critique selected human development theories relevant to the process of being and becoming an adult. An overview of models for translating theory to practice and assessment techniques to be applied to individuals, groups, and the environment is provided.
CCSD 553, Administration in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
Strategies, techniques, and issues related to the organization and administration of college student affairs' functions and divisions are stressed. Organizational structure, staff selection, training, supervision, budgeting, planning, policy development, and leadership as well as program implementation and evaluation are addressed.
CCSD 562, Qualitative Research with Today's Diverse College Students, 3 Units
Students are provided with a review and analysis of the ecology of college students in contemporary American higher education. Student characteristics, subcultures, values, beliefs, lifestyles, and other critical variables are examined in relation to qualitative assessment methods and policy/program implications.
CCSD 563, Counseling: The Helping Relationship, 3 Units
This course includes an introduction to and overview of various theoretical approaches to the helping relationship and an examination of helping techniques with culturally diverse populations as applied through advising, crisis intervention, and consultation roles. Behavior development and change as an interpersonal process is addressed. Practice in role-playing situations involving various helping and human relations skills is included.
CCSD 567, The Role of Diversity in Student Affairs Practice, 3 Units
This course introduces the attitudes, beliefs, values, skills, knowledge, and self-awareness necessary for student affairs professionals to serve diverse student populations.
CCSD 568, Inclusive Diversity Practices in Student Affairs, 3 Units
This course helps students develop professional skills and practices in designing culturally sensitive and appropriate interventions for any campus setting in the context of higher education. Students taking this course should already have a solid awareness and knowledge of the theoretical bases and content of social justice, privilege, and marginalized groups within higher education. Learning is targeted at experiential activities that provide opportunities to practice multicultural skills. Based on Pope and Reynolds (1997), multicultural skills allow for effective and meaningful interactions with people who differ culturally. Skill is based on awareness and knowledge to bring about appropriate, effective change in multicultural situations. Students receive feedback as they develop these skills, with specific attention paid to: 1) frameworks of social justice and ally ship, including social justice as a Christian tradition; 2) involvement with the unique experiences of marginalized social groups of college students; and 3) examining critical dimensions of the design and delivery of multicultural education programs. The pedagogy employed in this course draws heavily on critical self-reflection to explore how students' multicultural skills shape interventions related to inclusive diversity practices on a college campus.
Prerequisite: CCSD 567
CCSD 571, Student Learning in the Cocurriculum, 3 Units
Students are exposed to a dual study of theory and research pertaining to student learning as it occurs outside the classroom in the higher education setting. The course focuses on strengths for creating seamless learning experiences that extend beyond those offered in the formal curriculum, partnering with faculty members, and creating conditions that effectively engage students in educationally purposeful activities.
CCSD 573, Career Counseling and Development, 3 Units
This course provides a comprehensive review of career theory, as well as resources and techniques utilized in assisting individuals to make informed educational and career choices. An exploration of changing concepts of work and careers and their implications for career counseling are emphasized. A focus on the relationship of career to other issues of counseling and development is addressed.
CCSD 575, Quantitative Analysis in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
Students explore the basic elements of descriptive and inferential statistics, and use a statistical software package to develop computer skills necessary for quantitative analysis. The application of data analysis to student affairs practice is emphasized. It is strongly recommended that students complete this course prior to enrolling in CCSD 592 Program Evaluation in College Student Affairs.
CCSD 581, Foundations of Higher Education, 3 Units
Students explore and analyze the various purposes served by American colleges and universities and the principal policy questions currently confronting these institutions. Classic works and events that have influenced professional thought, public opinion, and policy related to higher education are addressed.
CCSD 583, Counseling Issues and Practice, 3 Units
Conflict, crisis, and dysfunctional behavior on the college campus are examined. Specific attention is given to the key issues relevant to student populations, including prejudice, substance abuse, suicide, and eating disorders. An opportunity for the development of skills applicable to college student affairs roles is provided through laboratory experience/practice.
CCSD 592, Program Evaluation in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
This course provides an introduction to basic concepts, principles, and methods of evaluation and research in the social sciences. Problem identification, research/program design, instrument development, data collection techniques, fundamental statistical tests, cost/benefit analyses, and interpretation of findings are addressed. Critical analysis of relevant literature is emphasized.
CCSD 595, Capstone Project in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
This course supports students in completing their professional portfolio which contains evidence of the 12 competencies upon which the program is built.
CCSD 595A, Capstone Project in College Student Affairs, 2 Units
This course supports students in completing their professional portfolio which contains evidence of the 12 competencies upon which the program is built.
CCSD 595B, Capstone Project in CSA, 1 Unit
This course supports students in completing their professional portfolio which contains evidence of the 12 competencies upon which the program is built.
CCSD 598, Special Topics, 3 Units
This course examines in depth a topic of current interest or need. Students analyze and evaluate topics/issues to reach and express a position, provide training for a particular population, or enhance personal development. If students elect this course more than once during their program, each course must address a different topic.
CCSD 599, Readings in College Student Affairs, 3 Units
This course is an independent study vehicle through which students and their sponsoring faculty members may pursue approved investigations beyond those provided within regular course offerings.
Faculty
Chair, Program Director, Professor
Jeannine Kranzow, PhD
Associate Professor
Mari Luna De La Rosa, PhD
Assistant Professor
Kandy Mink Salas, PhD