Identifying What Student Affairs Professionals Value: A Mixed Methods Analysis of Professional Competencies Listed in Job Descriptions

John L. Hoffman and Marilee J. Bresciani   |    Volume Seven  |   

This mixed method study explored the professional competencies that administrators expect from entry-, mid-, and senior-level professionals as reflected in 1,759 job openings posted in 2008. Knowledge, skill, and dispositional competencies were identified during the qualitative phase of the study. Statistical analysis of the prevalence of competencies revealed significant differences between major functional areas and requirements for educational and work experience. Implications for institutional leaders, graduate faculty, and professional development planning as well as for mixed methods research are discussed.

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