Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in College Student Affairs
USF’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in College Student Affairs (CSA) prepares future student affairs educators to support college student learning, development, and success. This face-to-face, cohort-based program emphasizes theory-to-practice integration, blending coursework with field experiences and required graduate assistantships in higher education settings. Graduates gain the knowledge, values, and competencies needed to create supportive, equitable, and engaging campus environments.
What you will learn
Students develop a strong foundation in higher education theory, student development, diversity and inclusion, campus environments, assessment, organizational leadership, and student affairs law and policy. Through coursework aligned with CAS standards and ACPA/NASPA professional competencies, students learn to design programs, policies, and services that promote student growth and educational success. The program also cultivates conscious scholarly practitioners who apply research and theory to real-world practice while contributing meaningfully to the student affairs profession.
Career opportunities
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across higher education, including:
- Academic advising
- Career services
- Admissions and recruitment
- Housing and residence life
- Campus activities and student engagement
- Financial aid and academic advocacy
- Fraternity and sorority life
- Student conduct
- Student accessibility services
- Higher education administration and leadership
What to expect
This 39-credit hour, two-year program follows a cohort model with 15–20 students, fostering strong peer support and professional networking. All students must hold a graduate assistantship or full-time higher education position, and full-time students complete a supervised summer practicum. Coursework covers student development theory, diversity in higher education, research methods, assessment, law and policy, organization and administration, and campus environments. The program culminates in a comprehensive exam during the final semester.
