Intentions to Leave Entry-Level Student Affairs Positions: Professional Preparedness, Job Satisfaction, and Self-Efficacy

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 1
  In Poster Session: Division J Poster Session: Organization, Management, and Leadership

Abstract

The longstanding inverse relationship between job satisfaction (JS) and attrition among entry-level student affairs professionals (SAPs) can be addressed in master’s level academic preparation programs (APPs). Counseling skills, an essential component in this education, should be sufficiently addressed in the curriculum. Two main sources provide curricular guidance: the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Other Related Educational Programs (CACREP) offers accreditation and the Council for the Achievement of Standards (CAS) offers best practice guidelines. Research suggests that SAP APPs can address major issues influencing attrition, including JS and self-efficacy. Results from this study indicate that CACREP should consider discontinuing accreditation for SAPs and that CAS-guided APPs should consider further addressing issues that affect JS in their guidelines.

Authors

• Kelly J. Smith, Springfield College

• David A. Walker, Northern Illinois University