Concordia University Ann Arbor (CUAA) announces a new Master of Science degree in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education (SPAHE) designed to help students learn and practice the skills, competencies and philosophies required for a successful career in higher education.


With 4,000 colleges and universities throughout the nation and more than 500,000 higher education students in Michigan alone, there is a regional need for a Christian-based graduate program that prepares students to serve in leadership capacities within these institutions and guide them during these changing times.

“There might never have been a more dynamic and exciting time in higher education, or a greater need for well-trained higher education and student life personnel,” said Dr. Loren Rullman, SPAHE Program Director. “This unique Master-level program was designed for those called to careers in higher education to further their knowledge and expand their capacity for impact.”

Similar programs tend to emphasize either the study of higher education administration or the study of student development theory. The SPAHE curriculum incorporates both, combined with an understanding of higher education history, culture, and leadership and a foundation rooted firmly in the research of college-age student learning.

“The SPAHE program is all about student services, and service is at the heart of CUAA’s mission,” said John Rathje, Program Advisor, “Our students are getting an incredible education while linking everything to the love of Jesus Christ.”

The graduate program is designed for busy professionals, as each eight-week class meets one night per week in a traditional classroom. For more information on the Master of Science in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education program at Concordia University Ann Arbor, please contact SPAHE Program Advisor, John Rathje or visit the page here.

— Rachel Thoms served on Concordia University's Strategic Communications team from 2015-2022. Any inquiries about this story can be sent to news@cuaa.edu.

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