Perceptions of Competencies of Entry-level Practitioners in Student Affairs

AbstractThe academic content of graduate preparation programs and the competencies they instill in their graduates is central to the quality and competence of student affairs practitioners within colleges and universities. The focus of this study was to gain additional understanding of what professional competencies were considered important for entry level practitioners by student affairs administrators and preparation program faculty, and whether these competencies were expected to be attained in either preparation programs or on the job. Significant differences were found between the three surveyed groups related to both importance and where the competencies were expected to be attained. These findings have implications for both preparation programs and the mentoring role of supervising administrators.