Master of Science in Higher Education

The M.S. program in Higher Education prepares graduates to affect change and enact critical reforms in academic, student affairs, and administrative settings in higher education.

This program in the Department of Higher Education goes beyond basic development of professional skills in student affairs to include broader policies and understandings of institutions of postsecondary education. Students gain an understanding of higher education systems, professional organizations and associations, faculty culture, campus partnerships, and fostering student learning and development. Youll also develop an understanding in the historical, philosophical, and legal foundations of higher education needed to develop policies and practices that advocate and support students of all backgrounds and needs. This program aligns with standards from the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education, ACPA College Student Educators International, and NASPA Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.

Please note that the Higher Education M.S. program is currently only accepting applications for part-time study for the fall 2020 semester. Prospective students interested in full-time study should plan to apply for fall 2021.

Complete your degree in 2 years of full-time study, or complete your degree part time while continuing to work in the higher education space.

Bachelor's degree and a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0, including a 3.0 or better in undergraduate writing/English courses.
A record of significant involvement and/or work in student affairs or higher education.
An ability to write well as demonstrated in the personal statement
Resume or CV
Three letters of recommendation. One must be from a faculty member that has had you in class and can speak to your academic work. The other two can be from supervisors, advisors, mentors, etc. The recommendations should speak to qualities such as your ability to work with students/staff/faculty, leadership, dedication, reliability, quality of work, communication skills, ability to balance multiple responsibilities, etc.
TOEFL scores (international students)
Note: Our faculty take a holistic approach to making a decision for our master's students. Thus, we consider your undergraduate GPA, your recommendations, your personal statement, and your resume. However, a sound academic background, particularly the last two years in college, and evidence of strong writing are weighed strongly.