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Student Affairs Administration Graduate Certificate Hero

Student Affairs Administration Graduate Certificate

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Advance your career in student affairs

Learn to design programs that help college students realize their learning and development potential through on-campus experiences.

This four-course, online graduate certificate program will help you become a competent practitioner as you study student development theory, financial management, organizational behavior, and more.

Application Dates
Fall semester
July 15*
Spring semester
January 2*
*Note: Application dates may vary depending on student status. Learn more.
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Program Details
Courses
Online
Credits
11
Tuition
$698 per credit
Same in-state tuition for all.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships Tuition/fees are just part of the cost to attend CSU. Learn more about the full Cost of Attendance
Certificate Awarded
Graduate Certificate in Student Affairs Administration
Time Frame
Varies based on intensity of study and course availability
Admission Reqs.
  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution.
Certificate Overview
Higher Education Certificate in Student Affairs Administration

Earn a certificate in higher education administration online

Build your skills and knowledge to design programs that help college students realize their learning and development potential through on-campus experiences. This four-course online series will help you become a competent practitioner by developing an understanding of:

  • How and why students develop during their college years,
  • Historical and philosophical foundations of student affairs,
  • Relationships among college students and their social and physical environments, and
  • The finance environment for higher education.

Advance your career in student affairs

No matter if you have experience in student affairs or are seeking to enter into the field, Colorado State University's student affairs certificate sets you apart as a professional with the knowledge to succeed in a broad range of settings on college and university campuses including:

  • Financial aid,
  • Admissions,
  • Student activities,
  • Advising,
  • Residence life,
  • and many other functional areas.

This program can be completed in one year, by taking one class in the spring, one class in the summer, and two classes in the fall, though you do have the option to alter or extend your program of study if needed.

Option to pursue a master's

This graduate certificate is a companion to the Student Affairs in Higher Education Master's Degree. The credits completed as part of this certificate can be applied toward the degree after formal admission per University transfer policies. Note that successful completion of the courses or certificate does not guarantee admission to the degree program.

Get started with a free course

If you’re unsure whether this profession would be a good fit, consider taking the Exploring the Student Affairs in Higher Education Profession free online course. If you’ve ever considered what it might be like to work in areas such as college admissions, campus recreation, enrollment services, housing and dining, or other student affairs departments, take this risk-free opportunity to learn more.

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

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11
Credits to Earn Your Certificate
95%
CSU Online Grad Students Secured Plans Related to Their Career
93%
Grad Students Would Choose CSU Online Again
$498M
In research expenditures in FY23
Curriculum

This certificate comprises four foundational courses introducing you to many facets of the profession. Courses explore the application of college student development theory, the function of student affairs within an institution, the impact of campus environment on student development and learning, and fiscal management in a university and student affairs environment.

You must be admitted to this program for the certificate to appear on your official University transcript.

 

How to Apply

1 Review Admission Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Student Affairs Administration Certificate requires applicants to have the following:

  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution.

Note that meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on several factors, including prior academic and professional experience and the personal statement.

2 Complete Online Application

Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received. When choosing program of study, please indicate your specialization of choice:

CSU's Graduate School offers several application fee waiver opportunities. Visit their website to determine if you are eligible for a waiver.

3 Request Transcripts

Request one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from all institutions attended. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be received directly from the originating institution to be considered official.

Please Note: Students may be unconditionally admitted and registered in their first semester of courses with an unofficial transcript. Official transcripts must be submitted, prior to or during your first semester, before you can register for your second semester of graduate work. Failure to meet this condition will result in your dismissal from the Graduate School.

Electronic (preferred):
Digital Transcripts must be submitted by the originating institution using a secure service such as parchment, eScrip-Safe, the National Student Clearinghouse, or e-Quals. Transcripts received via emails are considered unofficial.

Use institution code 4075 for Colorado State University or gradadmissions@colostate.edu if the secure service requires an email address.

Mail (if necessary)
Graduate Admissions
Colorado State University – Office of Admissions
1062 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523-1062

Check Your Application Status

View your application status at any time to ensure your application checklist is complete or to check on updates.

Once your complete application, including supporting materials, is received, the department admission committee will review your application and notify you of their decision.

For International Applicants

Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants from countries or United States territories where there are official languages other than (or in addition to) English. This includes the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.

Learn more about English language proficiency requirements.

Questions? Call (970) 491-7763 or email alex.broz@colostate.edu.

Application Dates
Fall semesterJuly 15*
Spring semesterJanuary 2*
Apply Now

Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.

Apply Now

Capacity in this master’s program is limited. Applicants who complete the application process on or before the priority deadline will receive priority placement into the program for that term.

Questions? Your dedicated support coach has the answers
Alex Broz
Prospective Student Support Coach