About CSPA

Matthew Ferramosca, Class of 2016

James Madison University’s graduate program in College Student Personnel Administration intentionally suffuses academic course work with practical experiences in a dynamic two-year professional program. The program’s unique blend of theory and practice is due to the collaborative efforts of the Department of Graduate Psychology and the Division of Student Affairs.

The program is designed to provide professional preparation for college, university, and community college positions. JMU CSPA prepares graduates to excel as higher education educators through learning experiences that:

• Foster self-awareness
• Bolster understanding of the goals and practice of higher education and the profession of student affairs
• Enhance students’ professional skills through strengthening proficiency at analysis, working across differences, collaboration, and problem solving

The program is anchored in a counseling core curriculum promoting personal growth and the development of interpersonal relationship skills.

Graduate courses in student developmental theory, counseling techniques and theory, the evolving field of Student Affairs, navigating complex organizations, program assessment and research methods, and individual and environmental interventions, are complemented with thoughtful integration of professional experiences.

JMU CSPA is unique because all full-time students hold an assistantship and complete two 150 hour practicum experiences. This structured program allows students to gain valuable experience in a number of student affairs departments and functional areas. Members of the JMU CSPA community are professionals and students and are on the path to becoming effective practitioners and thoughtful contributors to the Student Affairs profession.

If you have any additional questions regarding the program, please contact:
Dr. Steve Grande, Assistant Professor
Director, CSPA Program
James Madison University
MSC 7401
Phone: 540-568-3433
Email: grandese@jmu.edu