Dean of the College of Professional Studies and Advancement
Welcome to CPSA!
This is an exciting time at National Louis University. In 2014, we merged the College of Management and Business (CMB) and the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) to establish the new College of Professional Studies and Advancement (CPSA). The new CPSA comprises three schools: Health and Human Services, Social and Behavioral Sciences and Business and Management. CPSA also houses our learning and social community for adults 55+, the Life Long Learning Institute.
In creating the college, we are continuing to build on our strong track record of educating a diverse spectrum of students who in turn give back to their communities. The CPSA’s mission is to provide current and aspiring professionals with the innovative and relevant education, hands-on experience, and personalized guidance necessary to advance their careers and improve their own lives and the lives of others.
All of our bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees emphasize gaining practical knowledge and usable skills through experiential learning and community engagement.
As Dean of CPSA, I am enthusiastic about the direction we are headed. We have a new focus on advancing career readiness and employability of all of our graduates. The improvement of CPSA’s academic excellence has begun with a rigorous program review and will continue with the growth of external partnerships. Our curriculum is designed to meet professional standards and employer needs. CPSA is using input from employers across multiple sectors (Business, Health, Government, and Nonprofit), as well as professional organizations and associations to create innovative approaches and improve our practices.
Our more than 2,000 students range from first-generation college attendees to Life Long Learners (18-95 years of age). CPSA has highly flexible and accessible programs at five Illinois locations, as well as in Florida. To make it easier for working adults to succeed, we offer evening and weekend classes, in addition to online and web-enhanced courses.
Our college faculty are engaged practitioner-scholars with vast professional experience who understand the needs of today’s learners. We are committed to providing a highly personal and supportive experience for our students through the completion of their degree programs and their careers. CPSA faculty and students forge collaborative relationships that foster peer support and the development of lasting professional networks.
I am proud of the vibrant learning environment we have created. We are dedicated to social justice and uniquely positioned to provide relevant educational opportunities to those committed to improving their lives and communities. I invite you to find out more about the programs we offer or contact us directly to see how your organization or company might partner with CPSA.
Sincerely,
Judah Viola, Ph.D.
Dean
