Professional Associations in Higher Education

ACPA—College Student Educators International

ACPA—College Student Educators International is a leading professional association dedicated to advancing the student affairs profession through research, scholarship and advocacy for equitable and inclusive learning environments. Higher Education students can benefit from involvement by accessing premier publications like the Journal of College Student Development, networking through specialized "Communities of Practice" and utilizing professional competency frameworks to guide their career development. Additionally, the association offers discounted membership rates and specific scholarships for graduate students to attend national conventions and participate in leadership roles.

Visit ACPA Website

Ohio College Personnel Association (OCPA)

The Ohio College Personnel Association (OCPA) is the premier state-level organization dedicated to advancing student learning and development by fostering the sharing of knowledge and best practices among student affairs professionals in Ohio. For students in a Higher Education program, getting involved offers significant benefits, including low-cost professional development, access to a statewide network of mentors and peers across various functional areas, and opportunities to gain leadership experience through committees or presenting research at their annual conference. Additionally, students can apply for specific honors like the Robert F. Rodgers Graduate Student of the Year award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the field.

View the OCPA website

NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and Region IV-East

NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education

NASPA: Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education is the leading global association dedicated to the professional growth of student affairs educators and the advancement of student success. For students in a Higher Education program, NASPA offers discounted memberships that provide access to cutting-edge research through its four scholarly journals and mentorship opportunities via specialized "Knowledge Communities." Involvement allows students to bridge theory and practice by attending national and regional conferences, participating in the Dungy Leadership Institute, and utilizing The Placement Exchange (TPE) for specialized career services and job placement in the field.

View the NASPA website

Region IV-East

NASPA Region IV-East serves as the regional branch for student affairs professionals and students in the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes area, including Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Ontario. It provides a more localized and accessible community where students can benefit from low-cost regional conferences, one-day "drive-in" workshops, and specialized webinars tailored to regional trends. Involvement in this region is particularly beneficial for students seeking to build a professional network close to home, apply for regional awards and scholarships, and gain leadership experience through the New Professionals and Graduate Students (NPGS) committee.

View the NASPA Region IV-E Website

American Association of Community Colleges

The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) is the primary advocacy organization for the nation’s community colleges, representing over 1,000 associate degree-granting institutions and focusing on national policy, research, and leadership development. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides a deep understanding of the community college mission, access to the AACC Job Board, and professional development through the Leadership Suite or institutes like the Future Leaders Institute. Additionally, the association offers specialized communities of practice and research resources that are essential for those looking to specialize in community college administration or student success initiatives.

View the AACC website

American Association of University Women (AAUW)

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that advances gender equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to one of the world's largest sources of funding for graduate women, as well as leadership training through programs like NCCWSL (National Conference for College Women Student Leaders). Additionally, students can benefit from salary negotiation workshops and research data on the gender pay gap, which are vital resources for both personal career advancement and professional student advising.

Visit the AAUW website

American Educational Research Association (AERA)

The American Educational Research Association (AERA) is the largest national interdisciplinary research association devoted to the scientific study of education and learning across all levels. For students in a Higher Education program, AERA offers unparalleled access to high-impact journals, specialized Graduate Student Grants, and a dedicated "Graduate Student Council" that provides leadership opportunities and peer networking. Involvement is particularly beneficial for those interested in academia or policy, as the annual meeting serves as the premier venue to present original research and connect with leading global scholars in the field.

Visit the AERA website

Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE)

The Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) is a scholarly society dedicated to promoting collaboration among researchers and practitioners to study and improve postsecondary education. For students in a Higher Education program, ASHE provides a critical platform for presenting research, accessing the Review of Higher Education journal, and engaging with the ASHE Graduate Student Council, which offers tailored mentoring and professional development. Involvement is particularly beneficial for those pursuing careers in research, policy, or academia, as the annual conference is a premier venue for networking with the field's leading scholars.

Visit the ASHE website

Association of College and University Housing Officers–International (ACUHO–I)

ACUHO-I (Association of College and University Housing Officers-International) is the leading professional organization for campus housing and residence life professionals, focusing on creating diverse, safe, and evolving living-learning environments. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers access to the prestigious Housing Internship Program, which provides hands-on administrative experience at institutions worldwide, and the Stars College, a dedicated program for those considering housing as a career path. Additionally, members benefit from specialized research in the Journal of College and University Student Housing and networking opportunities within a global community of practice dedicated to student residential success.

Visit the ACUHO–I website

Association of College Unions International (ACUI)

ACUI (Association of College Unions International) is a professional organization dedicated to the development of campus community builders and the advancement of the "college union" as a physical and social center of campus life. For Higher Education students, involvement provides specialized training in student activities, facility management, and leadership through programs like the IPDS (Institute for Professional Development) and the I-LEAD® student leadership experience. It offers a strong professional network and job resources specifically for those interested in student union administration, campus programming, and auxiliary services.

Visit the ACUI website

Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors (AFA)

AFA (Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors) is the premier professional organization dedicated to the advisement and advancement of the fraternity and sorority experience within higher education. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers specialized professional development, access to the Oracle research journal, and the AFA Graduate Staff program, which provides hands-on experience during the Annual Meeting. It is an essential network for those seeking careers in Greek life administration, offering mentorship and a dedicated job board for campus-based and headquarters positions.

Visit the AFA website

Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA)

ASCA (Association for Student Conduct Administration) is the premier professional organization for higher education practitioners who support student development through the administration of student conduct, integrity, and conflict resolution processes. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides specialized training in legal issues, restorative justice, and ethical decision-making, which are critical skills for roles in housing, student activities, and dean of students offices. Members benefit from a dedicated "Case Study" competition at the annual conference and access to the Donald D. Gehring Academy, an intensive summer institute recognized as the gold standard for conduct training in the field.

Visit the ASCA website

Campus Compact

Campus Compact is a national coalition of colleges and universities dedicated to advancing the public purposes of higher education by fostering civic engagement, community partnerships, and socially responsible learning. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to specialized training in service-learning pedagogy, community-engaged research tools, and national fellowships like the Newman Civic Fellowship. It is an ideal organization for those interested in student leadership, community relations, and developing programs that integrate social justice with academic curriculum.

Visit the Campus Compact website

Comparative & International Education Society (CIES)

CIES (Comparative & International Education Society) is a premier scholarly association dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and examining educational issues through a comparative, global lens. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to the Comparative Education Review journal and specialized "Special Interest Groups" (SIGs) that focus on regional or thematic global trends. It is particularly beneficial for those interested in international education, study abroad administration, or global policy, offering a platform to present research at its massive annual conference and connect with a global network of scholars and practitioners.

Visit the CIES website

NAFSA: Association of International Educators and Region VI

NAFSA: Association of International Educators

NAFSA: Association of International Educators is the world's largest nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange, providing policy advocacy, professional development, and research for the field. For Higher Education students, involvement offers access to the NAFSA Job Registry, specialized training in visa regulations and study abroad management, and networking opportunities through "Knowledge Communities" focused on global student success.

Visit the NAFSA website

NAFSA Region VI

NAFSA Region VI serves as the regional hub for international educators in Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, offering a more localized community for professionals and students in the field. It is highly beneficial for Higher Education students because it provides low-cost regional conferences, travel grants, and localized networking opportunities that are often more accessible than national events. Additionally, the region hosts "drive-in" workshops and state-specific meetings, allowing students to engage with mentors and stay updated on immigration regulations and international student services within their immediate geographic area.

Visit the NAFSA Region VI Website

National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) and Ohio Academic Advising Association

National Academic Advising Association (NACADA)

NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising is the primary professional association for individuals committed to the role of academic advising in student success, providing a platform for research, professional development, and networking within the field. For Higher Education students, involvement offers access to the NACADA Journal, specialized "Graduate Student" communities, and the Emerging Leaders Program, which provides mentorship and leadership pathways for those interested in pursuing careers in academic advising and student support services.

Visit the NACADA website

Ohio Academic Advising Association (OHAAA)

OHAAA (Ohio Academic Advising Association) is a state-level professional organization dedicated to supporting academic advisors and the advancement of advising practices across Ohio's diverse higher education institutions. For students in a Higher Education program, getting involved provides access to low-cost professional development, localized networking with practitioners across the state, and opportunities to apply for scholarships and awards specifically designed for graduate students entering the field of advising.

Visit the OHAAA website

National Association for Campus Activities (NACA)

NACA (National Association for Campus Activities) is a non-profit organization that links higher education institutions with the entertainment industry to enhance student engagement and community belonging through campus programming. For Higher Education students, involvement provides hands-on experience in event planning and leadership via NACA Institutes, as well as access to the Journal of Campus Activities Practice & Scholarship (JCAPS) to bridge theory and co-curricular practice. Additionally, the NACA Foundation offers specialized scholarships and research grants specifically for graduate students and student leaders looking to advance their careers in student activities and campus life.

Visit the NACA website

NACA National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC)

NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling) is an organization of over 26,000 professionals dedicated to serving students as they navigate the transition from secondary to postsecondary education. For Higher Education students, involvement offers access to specialized certificate programs, advocacy training, and the Emerging Admission Professionals initiative, which provides tailored educational sessions and networking for those in the first three years of their career. Additionally, members benefit from research reports and a dedicated "Graduate Coursework" special interest group that bridges the gap between counseling education and professional practice.

Visit the NACAC website

National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)

NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) is a professional organization that connects college career services professionals with university relations and recruiting staff to bridge the gap between higher education and the workforce. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to critical industry data like the NACE Salary Survey and Job Outlook reports, as well as specialized training in the "Career Readiness Competencies" framework essential for roles in career counseling and employer relations. Additionally, it offers a dedicated platform for understanding the distinct career development needs of graduate students and provides networking opportunities through affinity groups and the Management Leadership Institute.

Visit the NACE website

National Association of Colleges and University Residence Halls (NACURH)

NACURH (National Association of College and University Residence Halls) is the largest student-run organization in the world, focused on improving the residential experience through leadership development, recognition, and resource sharing across eight geographic regions. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers a unique opportunity to advise student leaders, network with housing professionals, and gain practical experience in student government and large-scale conference planning. It is especially beneficial for those pursuing careers in Residence Life, as it provides a platform to mentor members of the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) and stay current on trends in living-learning communities.

Visit the NACURH website

National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

NASFAA (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to professional development, advocacy, and policy analysis for federal student aid programs. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides critical training on FAFSA simplification and Title IV regulations, access to a specialized Career Center for financial aid roles, and research opportunities through the Robert P. Huff Golden Quill Award for student aid research.

Visit the NASFAA website

National Association of Multicultural Education (NAME)

NAME (National Association for Multicultural Education) is a premier organization dedicated to advancing educational access, campus belonging, and fairness across all levels of education. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to professional development and research opportunities that prepare them to support diverse student populations and foster community engagement in a global society.

Visit the NAME website

National Career Development Association (NCDA) and Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA)

National Career Development Association (NCDA)

NCDA (National Association for Career Development) is the leading professional organization for practitioners and educators who empower individuals to achieve their career goals through professional development, standards, and research. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers access to reduced student membership dues, specialized Graduate Student Research Awards, and the NCDA Leadership Academy, which provides mentorship and training for those aspiring to lead in the field of career services and counseling.

Visit the NCDA website

Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA)

OCDA (Ohio Career Development Association) is a state division of the NCDA dedicated to fostering career development and vocational understanding across the lifespan for Ohio residents. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers access to graduate student professional development grants, specialized poster session opportunities at the annual conference, and a localized network of mentors who bridge the gap between academic theory and career services practice.

Visit the OCDA website

National Clearinghouse for Leadership Programs (NCLP)

NCLP (National Clearinghouse for Leadership Programs) is a scholarly organization dedicated to advancing the field of leadership education through research, resource sharing, and the development of professional standards. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to cutting-edge leadership curricula, opportunities to contribute to the Leadership Educators Journal, and a platform to network with a community of faculty and practitioners committed to fostering student leadership development.

Visit the NCLP website

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) is the primary governing body for college sports, dedicated to the well-being, lifelong success, and academic achievement of student-athletes across three divisions. For Higher Education students, involvement provides access to the NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship Program, the Postgraduate Internship Program at their national office, and specialized research grants for those studying the intersection of athletics, student development, and institutional policy.

Visit the NCAA website

Leaders in Collegiate Recreation (NIRSA)

NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation is a professional association dedicated to advancing recreation, sport, and wellness as essential components of a thriving higher education community. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement offers access to Bluefishjobs (a specialized career site), the NIRSA Mentor Match program, and student-led leadership teams that provide hands-on experience in program administration and health promotion. Additionally, the NIRSA Foundation provides travel grants and scholarships to help graduate students attend regional and national conferences, facilitating connections with a global network of campus recreation professionals.

Visit the NIRSA website

National Orientation Directors Association (NODA)

NODA (Association for Orientation, Transition, and Retention in Higher Education) is an international organization dedicated to enhancing the practices that help students successfully integrate into and persist through college. For students in a Higher Education program, involvement provides access to the NODA Internship Program, specialized Graduate Student networks, and professional development through the Orientation Professionals Institute, offering a direct pathway to careers in student success and institutional retention.

Visit the NODA website

National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition

The National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition is a leading scholarly clearinghouse and advocacy center focused on improving student success during critical junctures such as the first year, transfer process, and graduation. For Higher Education students, involvement provides access to cutting-edge research through the Journal of The First-Year Experience & Students in Transition, as well as specialized fellowships like the Jordan Smith Undergraduate Student Fellowship and the Paul P. Fidler Research Grant for graduate-level work on college transitions.

Visit the University of South Carolina website