1. What is the significance of a Graduate Certificate in Student Development and Affairs from Drexel University?
The Higher Education program’s certificate in Student Development & Affairs seeks to produce professionals who are equipped with the fundamental competencies expected of Student Affairs Administrators. The coursework helps students to develop an understanding of the current issues and trends, and to be forward-thinkers in meeting the challenges facing student affairs divisions in higher education. Completion of the program will lead to a Drexel certificate in Student Development and Affairs. This is not the same as a certification, and it is a separate program from the M.S. in Higher Education program.
2. Who should apply to the Graduate Certificate in Student Development and Affairs program?
This is designed for students who do not wish to pursue a full-masters degree, but would rather complete the shorter certificate program focused on this particular area. This program is highly recommended for students who may have already earned a Masters Degree in another field and want additional education credentials specific to Higher Education. It is also recommended for any student who wishes to further their education, skills and knowledge of the Student Affairs field but does not want to pursue a Masters degree at this time.
3. What types of careers are specific to the Student Development and Affairs area?
Student Development and Affairs is a broad field that is representative of lots of departments and units within a college campus. Some examples of areas specific to universities and colleges, whether they are two-year/four-year, non-profit/for-profit, public/private, on-campus/online, or national/international include:
- Residence Life
- Campus Activities
- Advising – both academic and career-based services
- Athletics
- Student Conduct
- Multicultural or International Student Centers/Programs
- Engagement/Civic Learning
- Disability Services
- Retention
- Religious-based programming/centers
- Student Unions
- Greek Life
- Many more!
The certificate can also prepare students to work in organizations, associations, government agencies, publications, etc. outside of academia that are focused on professional development, advocacy, training, and more specific to the field of Student Development and Affairs.
4. Why choose Drexel’s Certificate in Student Development and Affairs?
Rigorous Curriculum - The program provides a solid foundation in higher education along with specialized coursework focusing on the critical issues specific to the area of Student Development and Affairs.
Quality Core Faculty - The certificate program utilizes the same quality faculty as the MSHE program. The MSHE program has a set of core faculty with extensive experience in higher education (e.g. administration, research, teaching, consulting, etc.). However, the MSHE program hires adjunct faculty (e.g. vice presidents, provosts, deans, executive directors, faculty, etc.) from select associations/organizations as well as other universities and from within Drexel University’s administration to teach specialized courses. Moreover, courses include guest speakers who have expertise in select areas within and outside of academia (e.g., college/university presidents, corporate CEOs, training directors, software developers, politicians, executive directors, etc.). It is essential that students have the opportunity to work with faculty and speakers who are currently involved in each of the courses through work or research.
Flexibility - The program is offered completely online. Drexel’s online format has the same admissions standards, requirements, and faculty that lead to the same high quality degree.
Interactive Courses with practical applications - The online courses are interactive and engage students through mixed instructional methods. Materials are posted online weekly; however, students are required to work on individual and group projects, interact with the faculty, listen to guest speakers, and participate in some live “chat” forums. It is important that online students are actively involved in the courses and are part of a student/classroom “community”. Additionally, throughout the courses, students often engage in assignments and discussions that mimic what really happens in the field, allowing them to put theory into practice within the coursework.
