Free Resources for Grad Students

Are you just learning about CAS? You’re in good company.
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Most graduate students in higher education and student affairs programs are first introduced to CAS through coursework, readings, presentations, or class projects. Whether you’re exploring the field or preparing for your next step, CAS offers free and accessible resources to help you understand and apply professional standards from the very beginning.

Start Here: CAS Overview
If you’re new to CAS, these foundational resources provide the context you need to get started:

• CAS General Standards
• CAS Mission, Vision, and Purpose
• CAS Member Associations
• List of CAS Functional Area Standards
• The Basics of CAS

These tools can help you understand the “why” behind standards, how they’re created, and the broad scope of their influence across student affairs and higher education.

Explore: CAS and Program Review
A primary way educators use CAS is to assess the effectiveness and quality of their programs and services. Whether you’re preparing for a project or learning how institutions evaluate themselves, these resources will help you dive deeper:

• CAS Graduate Student Resource Packet
• The CAS Self-Assessment Guide (SAG)
• Introduction to the Self-Study Process
• Examples of Program Review in Action

These guides support your understanding of the CAS self-assessment model and how it promotes continuous improvement in practice.

Focus on Outcomes: Learning and Development
CAS Standards are built around the idea that student experiences should be meaningful and measurable. Each standard requires that programs identify and assess student learning and development outcomes.
Learn more about outcome design and application through these resources:

• CAS Outcome Domains and Dimensions
• How to Write Learning Outcome Statements
• Applying Domains and Dimensions in Student Affairs
• Intro to Learning Outcomes Assessment

These resources help you link theory and practice in your coursework and prepare you for standards-based assessment in your future role.

Hear from Graduate Students Like You
Real experiences from peers can make a difference. Explore stories and reflections from graduate students who have used CAS in practical ways:

• Insights from the Interns
• Using CAS in Your Job Search
• Applying CAS During Times of Transition

From internship projects to interview preparation, these stories show how CAS supports student success and career readiness.

Whether you're just beginning your graduate journey or preparing for your first role, CAS is here to help you build a strong foundation. Bookmark these resources and come back often and your understanding of standards will continue to grow alongside your professional path.