Professional development and career advancement are essential elements of a satisfying experience as a working professional. The purpose of this study was to examine: (1) the effectiveness of methods of professional development for student affairs professionals, (2) factors influencing career advancement for student affairs professionals, (3) the relationship between professional development and career advancement for student affairs professionals, and (4) career advancement outcomes for student affairs professionals as a result of professional development. The overarching question guiding the research was, what are prevalent themes concerning professional development and career advancement for student affairs professionals? Student affairs professionals have numerous methods of training and development at their discretion. The field is evolving while facing the same fiscal challenges experienced by all sectors of education. Using a sample population of student affairs practitioners in the state of Louisiana, this quantitative study considered how professional development and career advancement relate with valuable insight into outcomes that may foster job satisfaction, retention, and a passion for participation in professional learning. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA analyses, t-Tests, and bivariate correlation tests were completed to assess each research question. It was discovered there are prevalent themes regarding professional development and career advancement for student affairs practitioners, providing a window into ways career growth can be enhanced and professional learning improved. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]