Master of Science in Higher Education

Established in 1957, the Florida State University Higher Education program boasts a long tradition of preparing students for successful careers. Faculty members and students regularly disseminate research on higher education policy issues at the national, state, and institutional level. Our program focuses on three central pillars: student success, leadership, and social justice. As they progress through the program, students will gain opportunities for advancement and career mobility. They can also expect to enhance expertise and renew motivation. Florida State offers M.S., Ed.D. and Ph.D. higher education programs. The Master of Science (M.S.) degree prepares individuals for careers in administration, management, and leadership. Graduates can expect to work in public and private, two-year and four-year colleges, universities, and other institutions. Coursework and other learning experiences, such as internships and graduate assistantships, add practical experience to the learning process. In general, we provide students with appropriate knowledge about the professional field while grounding students in theoretical framework. This knowledge guides current and future study and career development in higher education and student affairs. Many courses use practical examples, case studies, and simulations to facilitate theory to practice learning opportunities and applications. Students typically secure entry-level positions following graduation.

Statement of purpose (1 required) Describe your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in higher education, including your preparation for this field of study and your future career goals. Please be specific about why Florida State University would be a good intellectual and professional fit for you. If there are any specific details of your academic, professional, or personal history you feel should be considered during admissions or you would like to put into context, please do so within the statement of purpose.
You should touch on your personal background and experiences that have led you to pursue a graduate degree, but are reminded the faculty will have a copy of your resume/C.V. Personal statements are generally two pages long, 12-point font, double-spaced.
Letters of recommendation (3 required) Letters should be written by persons who are in a position to comment on the likelihood of your success within the department, specifically faculty members or supervisors. At least one letter must be from a faculty member. We do not accept letters from co-workers or friends.
Resume/Curriculum Vitae (1 required)
Unofficial Transcripts Include transcripts from all colleges attended. Uploading a copy will expedite the review process, though you must still send official copies to the Office of Graduate Admissions
Admission to graduate study is a two-fold evaluation process. The Office of Admissions determines eligibility for admission to the University, and the academic department, program, or college determines admissibility to the degree program.
*NOTE: The GRE requirements for master's and specialist programs have been waived through Fall 2026.
Internet based TOEFL (IBTOEFL): 80
Paper based TOEFL (TOEFL): 550
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5
A bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution, or a comparable degree from an international institution, with a minimum 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) grade point average (GPA) in all coursework attempted while registered as an upper-division undergraduate student working towards a bachelor's degree, or
A graduate degree with at least a 3.5 GPA A graduate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution, or a comparable degree from an international institution, and
GRE test scores* Official test results are required from the Graduate Record Examination revised General Test (GRE). These scores are considered official only when they are sent directly to the Office of Admissions from the testing agency. Examinee copies are not considered official.