graduate programs in higher education and student affairs

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Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs

This program is designed for aspiring higher education administrators in academic advising, residential life, student advocacy, campus activities and athletic programs.

Student affairs professionals are at the front lines of higher education. Prepare to transform education systems to advance equity, student development, and the student experience.

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs (PASA) program will equip you with a broad understanding of the key aspects of higher education administration, including student affairs, student development, legal issues, identity and diversity and the history of higher education. You will select three focus courses that align with your interests or career goals.

Through this program, you will:

• Prepare for a variety of roles in higher education.
• Learn to advance educational equity for historically marginalized students. 
• Interact with one of the most diverse cohorts on campus. 
• Learn from leading professors and practitioners who will support your professional growth and challenge your perspective.  

The PASA program prepares you to meet industry-established competencies for student affairs professionals developed by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). The curriculum includes core courses, a variety of focus courses and a capstone project.

The capstone project will strengthen your ability to use evidence-based arguments to influence others and advocate for student needs. During your first semester, you will select an existing problem in student affairs to address. After conducting research in the research methods course, you will complete your project during the capstone course. Your work, which will be peer-reviewed and receive regular feedback from your professor, will culminate in an oral presentation at a symposium.

Graduate Assistant Positions

Graduate assistant positions provide hands-on experience in higher education settings and preparation for your desired career. While the majority of PASA students obtain graduate assistant positions on the USC campus, the city of Los Angeles is home to many colleges and universities. Graduate assistant positions are often compensated by an hourly wage, tuition remission, or, in the case of residential education, room and board.

With the support and guidance of our team, you can select and apply for paid and unpaid opportunities tailored to your personal goals throughout your time in the program. However, we recommend that you first interview for opportunities at the annual USC Rossier Preview Day for incoming students.

Scholarships

As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for several USC Rossier scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. There is no need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is given to those who apply in rounds one and two.

View USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify other scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the final program application deadline.

Financial Aid

The USC Office of Student Financial Aid provides information regarding various types of financial aid and financing options.

To be considered for financial aid, you must apply for the FAFSA. After you apply, the financial aid office will determine your financial need and inform you of the federal or private loans that are available to you.

Career Outcomes

Our graduates work at public and private colleges and universities in a variety of departments and roles. Other graduates enter PhD and EdD programs immediately, often working in the field full-time or part-time as they earn their doctorate.

Our graduates work in programs and departments including:

• Academic advising
• Orientation and new student programming
• Residential life/housing
• Student advocacy and judicial affairs
• Greek life 
• Campus activities and student organizations
• Athletic programs
• Student life and leadership 
• Multicultural affairs 
• Diversity, equity and inclusion programs 

Program Details

Degree awarded, estimated length.

Full time: 12 months Part time: 24 months  

Program Cost

$2,354 per unit (estimated)

Estimated cost of attendance

Next Deadline

December 1, 2024

See all deadlines

August 25, 2025

Class Times

Mondays through Thursdays from 4:00-6:40 p.m. or 7:00-9:40 p.m. Pacific Time

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Our faculty have real-world experience grounded in research and student affairs practice.

Shafiqa Ahmadi

• Professor of Clinical Education
• Co-director of the Center for Education, Identity and Social Justice
• Higher Education
• Diversity • Legal Protection of Underrepresented Students, Including Female Muslims, Bias and Hate Crimes, and Sexual Assault Survivors

Cory Buckner

• Assistant Professor of Clinical Education
• Intercollegiate Athletics • Higher Education • College Student Development and Success

Darnell Cole

• Professor of Education
• Race/ Ethnicity, Diversity, Student-Faculty Interactions, Learning, and Student Experiences within K12 and Higher Education Environments.

• Research Professor
• Sociology of Education • College Access & Success • Digital Equity • Qualitative Methodologies

Steve Desir

• Assistant Professor of Research
• Equity Issues in K-12 and Higher Education, College Access and Student Transitions, College Admissions, Graduate Education, Student Affairs Administration, Student Success, Educational Policy, Organizational Theory

Shaun Harper

• University Professor
• Provost Professor of Education and Business
• Clifford and Betty Allen Chair in Urban Leadership
• USC Race and Equity Center Founder and Executive Director
• Race in K-12 • Higher Education, and Corporate Contexts • Urban Education • Boys and Men of Color • College Student Success • Intercollegiate Athletics

• Adjunct Assistant Professor
• Associate Director for Survey Research
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion • Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methodology • Survey Research • Institutional Research • Finance in Higher Education

Program Outcomes

Of pasa graduates work at usc or uc or csu.

31 states where PASA alumni work 136 Institutions employing PASA graduates

of PASA alums said their USC Rossier education prepared them to be more effective in their career

Of pasa alums said their studies at usc rossier prepared them well for future employment, less than 12% of alumni took more than six months to find a job after graduating from usc rossier, from our alumni.

"My time in the PASA program was a truly formative experience. I was given the opportunity to explore my passions for fundraising and athletics, while getting a holistic view of the higher education administration landscape. I use some aspect of my education and experience every day in my current fundraising role at Kellogg, and I certainly wouldn't be where I am today without Rossier."

Alex Burden, ME ’16

Associate Director, Leadership Giving, Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management

News and Insights

August 22, 2024

Jessica DeCuir-Gunby named president of the APA’s Educational Psychology Division

In the new role, DeCuir-Gunby aims to expand the group’s membership, improve the integration of DEI into the field and better connect research to practice.

Featured Faculty

• Jessica T. DeCuir-Gunby

August 20, 2024

New USC study sheds light on adolescent mental health crisis in the United States

Results emphasize the interconnectedness of mental health, attendance and school grades—a necessary reality for schools to grapple with.

• Morgan Polikoff

August 14, 2024

Roger Rossier MA ’63, EdD ’72, lifelong educator known for his significant contributions to educational research and policy, passed away at 92

The namesake of the USC Rossier School of Education passed away on Aug. 11, 2024.

• Pedro Noguera

August 1, 2024

Copur-Gencturk receives $6.7 million in federal funding to continue work to improve elementary math instruction by improving teacher knowledge

Largest ever USC Rossier NSF grant will create content-focused professional development programs that focus on the key knowledge and skills that matter in quality teaching and student learning.

• Yasemin Copur-Gencturk

July 31, 2024

New research shows that transcendent thinking can increase teens’ sense of purpose

In a study of an intergenerational community program, CANDLE researchers found that adolescents who engaged in transcendent thinking increased their sense of purpose.

• Mary Helen Immordino-Yang
• Xiao-Fei Yang

Featured Research Centers

Center for education, identity and social justice.

Established in 2017, the Center for Education, Identity and Social Justice has a compelling interest in eradicating all forms of discrimination based on the intersection of an individual’s identities that include religion, gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity and disability. Using rigorous research and legal analysis, we empower educators to utilize laws and policies in order to identify and extricate bias and unequal distributions of power within educational institutions.

Website  |  Brochure

Pullias Center for Higher Education

One of the world’s leading research centers on higher education, the Pullias Center advances innovative, scalable solutions to improve college outcomes for underserved students and to enhance the performance of postsecondary institutions. Website  |  Brochure

The University of Southern California Race and Equity Center

Established in 2017, the Race and Equity Center is the epicenter for interdisciplinary scholarship, resources and meaningful activities on racial equity that significantly benefit the University, other institutions of higher education and the broader society.

Program Contact

Beverly V. Yanuaria, M.Ed.

Assistant Director, Office of Admission and Scholarships

• [email protected]
• (213) 821-5843

Request More Information

Connect with us to receive more information about this program and reminders about upcoming events and application deadlines.

Privacy Policy: USC Rossier School of Education will never share or sell your personal information.

Related Programs

Educational counseling.

Master of Education (ME)

• Counseling and Higher Education
• Academic Programs
• Higher Education
• M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs

It's about all of you: supporting your personal, academic and professional success.

Our M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs is designed to provide holistic support and a strong sense of connectedness as you build the foundation toward your career aspirations. Students move together, as a cohort, through the 36-credit hour program. This program provides theoretical groundwork, practical application, and contextual understanding of higher education and the diverse students it serves. You will emerge from the program fully prepared to move toward your professional career goals. Join us as we prepare the next generation of practitioners and leaders in higher education and student affairs.

Program Highlights

• Social justice and inclusion are foundational in our curriculum.
• Faculty bring diverse experiences, backgrounds, scholarship and expertise from various areas across higher education and student affairs.
• Holistic student support and development from a faculty committed to facilitating engaging learning experiences in and outside the classroom.
• A cohort of 15-20 diverse learners who support each other's learning and development.
• A pathway to degree completion for part-time students.
• A commitment to access and affordability, opportunities for graduate assistantships which provide stipends and tuition waivers.
• Opportunities to put theory into action through hands-on learning in graduate assistantships, internships and professional development experiences beyond the classroom.
• Class content and assignments that are relevant to the evolving field of student affairs and higher education.
• Opportunities to continue to build your leadership skills by involvement in graduate student organizations and professional development programs.
• A network of supportive alumni making contributions across all areas of higher education.

How to Apply to the HESA Masters Program

To apply for the program, you'll need to submit the following application materials :

• Completed NIU Graduate School application
• Written statement of goals
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts
• Current résumé

The following prompt questions will guide the writing of your goal statement. The essay should be single-spaced and one to two pages in length.

• Why are you interested in pursuing a career in higher education and student affairs? What experience in school, work, or life prompted your interest in pursuing a career in higher education and student affairs?
• How do you hope to contribute to the field of higher education and student affairs?
• How do you think the graduate program at NIU, in particular, will help you achieve your goals?
• Looking at our learning outcomes for the program, what areas are you most excited to learn more about?

Applicant who is a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, DACA student, undocumented student, or has temporary protective status:

• Priority application deadline: Feb. 1
• Rolling admissions until May 1

International applicant with an F-1 or J-1 visa:

• Priority deadline: Jan. 1

Program Learning Outcomes

• Examine different organizations, contexts, and/or leadership in HESA
• Apply college student development and/or learning theories in HESA practice settings
• Utilize theory-to-practice models in HESA settings
• Apply principles of assessment and evaluation to the practice of HESA
• Engage in professional praxis that promotes inclusion, equity and social justice

Real-world Learning

We focus on preparing you for serving for a career as a student affairs professionals by incorporating real-world learning in various aspects of our program. For example, in your course work, over the span of two-sequential classes, you will not only learn the skills of program assessment, an integral component of any work in higher education, but will have the opportunity to apply that knowledge. This applied assessment project, a real-world collaboration with a campus partner, gives students the full experience of designing and conducting an assessment, complete with data analysis and the responsibility of providing deliverables to the campus partner. Real-life learning also happens via internships and graduate assistantships.

Curriculum Overview and Program Coursework

We have intentionally developed a curriculum that prepares our students not only as practitioners in the field of student affairs and higher education, but as advocates for inclusion, equity, belonging and social justice. Our students are equipped to meet the changing needs of an increasingly diverse student body and work in the complexities of today's college campuses – be that a brick-and-mortar or a virtual environment.

This preparation includes the study of student development, ethics, social justice, leadership and administration, community development, educational policy analysis, program assessment and evaluation, as well as adult learning theory. Your studies will culminate with a capstone experience and the development of a professional portfolio.

The professional portfolio allows you to showcase your learning and development throughout the program. The portfolio will include a scholarly reflection on your learning, your resume, and various artifacts that demonstrate your skills and competencies such as a recorded professional talk, a self-assessment of the ACPA/NASPA professional competencies, conference presentations, and projects from your coursework, internship, or graduate assistantship.

Common Core (24 Credits)

• HESA 500 - Foundations of Higher Education credits: 3
• HESA 502 - Equity, Diversity, and Social Justice in Higher Education credits: 3
• HESA 503 - U.S. College Students credits: 3
• HESA 522 - College Student Development Theory credits: 3
• HESA 562 - Helping Skills for Student Affairs Professionals credits: 3
• HESA 572 - Assessment Methods in Higher Education credits: 3
• HESA 573 - Applied Assessment Methods in Higher Education credits: 3
• HESA 598 - Capstone in Higher Education and Student Affairs credits: 3

Internship Core (3 Credits)

• HESA 586 - Internship in Higher Education and Student Affairs credits: 1-3

Electives (9 Credits)

Electives can be approved by advisor (3) or select from the list below.

• HESA 501 - Student Affairs Administration and Practice credits: 3
• HESA 509 - Campus Environments and Student Cultures credits: 3
• HESA 530 - Instructional Theory, Practice and Teaching in Postsecondary Education credits: 3
• HESA 590 - Workshop in Higher Education and Student Affairs (Rotating Topics) credits: 3
• HESA 771 - Legal Aspects of Higher Education Administration credits: 3

Internships

The required internship, which includes at least 120 hours of professional career experiences, allows you to develop an in-depth understanding and working knowledge of a specific functional area in higher education and student affairs. Since most internships for our students are in throughout Chicagoland, you'll have the opportunity to not only work with culturally diverse students but also take advantage of professional development experiences and networking throughout the metropolitan and surrounding areas. You are also free to take advantage of internships on the national and global levels.

Program Faculty

Our faculty bring diverse experiences, backgrounds, scholarship and expertise from a variety of areas across higher education and student affairs.

• Quortne Hutchings
• Matthew P. Ison
• Katy Jaekel
• Carrie Kortegast
• Jacqueline Mac
• Gudrun Nyunt
• Kelly Wesener-Michael

Pathways for Part-time Students

Our program provides pathways tailored to the needs of working professionals who want to pursue their M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Courses are offered in the late afternoon (3-5:40 p.m.) and evening (6-8:40 p.m.).

You can complete the 36-credit, in-person degree program in three years. You will be part of a cohort of part-time students moving through the program together. You, your cohort colleagues and full-time students will come together as a community of learners in the classroom.

Internship experiences provide our part-time students with valuable work experience that will help them diversify their skills and lead to career advancement opportunities. To support this, part-time students work with the academic counselor to create a flexible plan to complete the three credits of internship (120 hours) that meets their individual needs.

Example Course Rotation for Part-Time Students

Virtual Information Sessions and In-Person Preview Day

At our virtual information sessions, students will learn more about our program, the admissions process, and graduate assistantships.

• Virtual Information Sessions will be hosted throughout the Fall and early Spring semester. Information about these sessions will be posted in the Upcoming Events section below.

Preview Day

Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) Preview Day invites prospective students to join us for a full-day on-campus event to learn more about our M.S.Ed. program, our campus, and graduate assistantship opportunities. Students participating in HESA Preview Day will receive a tuition waiver.

During this event, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Receive an overview of the master's program and what to expect in the classroom
• Engage with faculty
• Participate in professional development focused on how to apply for graduate assistantships, preparing for assistantship interviews and financing your graduate education
• Learn about the graduate experience from current students in the program
• Gain knowledge about the Student Affairs profession from dedicated practitioners in the field
• Optional campus tours and tours of the residence halls will be provided

HESA Preview Day will be hosted on February 7, 2025.

HESA Preview Day registration opens on November 15. The registration link will be available under Upcoming Events on this page. If you are unable to attend that day, please connect with our Academic Counselor for other opportunities to learn about our program.

International Student Information Sessions and Support

We value the contributions our international students make to the HESA community. To support our international students through the application and graduate assistantship interview process, we offer virtual information sessions geared toward international students and additional support for the graduate assistantship interview process.  Information about these information sessions will be posted in the Upcoming Events section below.

IGraduate Assistantships Interview Support

International student admissions decisions are made in late January. This allows us to connect with each admitted international student in February to provide support through the graduate assistantship process. Graduate assistantships are vital to our program, not only to provide financial support for attending graduate school but also for real-life learning related to the field of higher education and student affairs.

A program representative will reach out to each admitted international student in February to provide assistance related to applying for graduate assistantships including:

• Application review
• Resume review
• Mock Interview
• Virtual one-on-one meeting to answer questions

Graduate Assistantships

Most full-time students in our program hold a graduate assistantship, which not only provides financial support for attending graduate school but also prepares students for a career in higher education and student affairs. We offer these assistantships in collaboration with our Division of Student Affairs , Academic Affairs and Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion . Compensation typically includes a tuition waiver and stipend. Graduate assistantships are provided in a wide variety of functional areas across the university.

To connect prospective students with graduate assistantship employers, we host a virtual interview day. Detailed information about the application process is shared with prospective students at information sessions and our in-person preview day.

Our virtual CAHE GA Interview Day will be on Thursday, March 6 from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Interviews will be held via Zoom.

• Plan to set aside the whole day for interviews. Interviews are scheduled 8:30 a.m.-4:30  p.m.
• Interviews last for 30 minutes.
• Candidates can interview for up to 10 positions.

Graduate Assistantship Application Process and Timeline

Upcoming Events

Testimonials.

"NIU was an excellent fit for my education because it provided the space necessary for me to develop my potential as a student. Being a student at Northern embeds you into an environment to be a modern professional while highlighting intersectionality. We convert from students to professionals and often become role models."  by Josiel Marrufo, M.S.Ed., Higher Education and Student Affairs, '17 Director of Student Projects, City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College

"The opportunity to work as a graduate residence hall director provided me the experience to bring the student development theories to practice. The skills I gained, such as diligent organization, crisis management and leadership, have been applied time and again throughout my post-graduate career. I also would not be in my current professional role today without the opportunity to have interned abroad in Rome, Italy with CISabroad."  by Nicole Stelter, M.S.Ed. Adult and Higher Education, '16 International Program Advisor, University of Central Florida

• Ed.D. in Higher Education
• Ed.D. Community College Leadership
• M.S.Ed in Counseling
• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Counseling Minor

Request Information --> Request Information Apply for Admission Explore Campus

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Danae Miesbauer Academic Counselor Department of Counseling and Higher Education 815-753-1306 [email protected]

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MSEd in Higher Education & Student Affairs (HESA)

The Master of Science in Higher Education & Student Affairs (HESA) program at Baylor University distinctively balances career experience and academic rigor to prepare professionals who desire to have a meaningful, lasting influence on students' lives in higher education settings.

HESA is the only master's program in higher education and student affairs from a Research 1 university that incorporates student development, administrative theory, and faith into the curriculum.

HESA is a full-time, residential program completed in 22 months. It requires 42 hours of coursework, and during the last semester, the student can choose between a three-hour capstone course or a three-hour thesis.

The HESA program offers

• A national reputation with national resources — Baylor meets all ACPA, NASPA and CAS standards
• 20-hour per week apprenticeships that give students hands-on experience
• Fully funded, plus a stipend for the apprenticeship
• Integration of faith and learning into the curriculum
• A small program size (cohorts of approximately 15 students) that maximizes faculty-student mentorship

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Higher Education & Student Affairs

Master of Arts in Higher Education & Student Affairs

The Master of Arts degree in Higher Education & Student Affairs Administration is designed to prepare students for a variety of student affairs positions in postsecondary institutions. Our program emphasizes social justice and service to diverse student populations at various types of institutions. In addition, although the goal of this master's program is to equip student affairs educators with a broad understanding of the role of student affairs and student development in postsecondary education, the practicum and internship experiences allow students to explore specific interests and enhance their skills in more specific areas.

Recognizing the breadth of possible experiences and positions within student affairs, the MA program in Student Affairs Administration is developed around the competencies of ACPA and NASPA, the two primary student affairs professional associations. The program conforms to the norms and standards found in the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education. There are 13 goals of the MA program:

• To understand and articulate the role of student affairs in the context of postsecondary education
• To reference historical and current documents that state the philosophical foundations of the profession and communicate their relevance to current student affairs practice
• To articulate the inherent values of the profession that are stipulated in historical and current documents in a manner that indicates how these values guide practice
• To understand complexities of diversity and inclusion as they affect higher education and student affairs
• To demonstrate the ability to use appropriate theory (e.g., student development, organizational, learning, leadership, etc.) and data-based decision making to assist institutions in accomplishing their missions
• To demonstrate a flexible capacity to use skill sets (e.g., technology, distance learning, communication, etc.) to deliver programs and services that engage students and foster student learning and development
• To analyze, understand, create, and/or modify learning environments.
• To use appropriate theory to understand, support, and advocate for student learning and development
• To assess learning and developmental needs and outcomes
• To demonstrate knowledge of the influence of student characteristics and collegiate environments on student learning and learning opportunities
• To demonstrate knowledge, skills, and awareness of resources necessary to design and evaluate effective educational interventions and/or programs for individuals and groups
• To demonstrate the ability to identify and appropriately refer persons who need additional resources
• To demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to apply a code of ethics or ethical principles sanctioned by a recognized professional organization.

The Masters of Arts degree in Higher Education Administration with a specialization in Student Affairs is designed to prepare students for a variety of student affairs positions in postsecondary institutions. The Masters of Arts in Higher Education & Student Affairs Administration is unique because it emphasizes social justice and service to diverse student populations at varying types of institutions in a student affairs context. The program consists of three parts, thirty (30) semester hours of graduate coursework (beyond the bachelor’s degree), 6 credit hours of practicum/internships completed over two semesters, and the completion of a Student Affairs Professional Portfolio (SAPP). Both the program and portfolio have been developed around the competencies of ACPA and NASPA, the two primary student affairs professional associations, and conforms to the norms and standards found in Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education. The specific goals of the MA program have been developed out of these standards.

Admission Application Deadlines:

• January 15 - Priority deadline for those seeking graduate student funding
• February 15 - Final deadline

All application materials must be received by this date for consideration

Visit the Graduate School page to apply today!

1. Students must have received their bachelor’s degree prior to starting their coursework. Official transcripts of all academic work completed at a regionally accredited institutions of higher education must be submitted prior to matriculation.

2. Students are expected to have an overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better; if a student has a cumulative overall GPA between 2.5-3.0 but has a 3.0 or better for the last two years of undergraduate work, they may be offered conditional admission. Students should also have a GPA of 3.0 or better in any graduate study beyond the baccalaureate degree.

3. Three (3) official recommendations from supervisors, faculty, or professionals who can comment on and attest to the applicant's ability to engage in graduate level work. Note that recommendations can not come from family members.

4. International students, whose native language is not English, must provide a minimum TOEFL score of 590 PBT/97 iBT (scores approximately at the 75th percentile), or an IELTS score of 6.5, and demonstrate through the required written documentation and interview that they have requisite verbal and analytical skills needed to successfully complete the program.

5. A 2-3 page written statement explicitly outlining 1) applicant's professional experiences, including any relevant experiences in student affairs and higher education, 2) specific career goals in higher education, and 3) how achieving a master's through Morgan State University's program in higher education & student affairs will assist in accomplishing those career goals.

6. A current resume or curriculum vita, documenting professional experiences particularly as they relate to higher education/student affairs.

7. A writing sample, such as a course paper, publication, or research proposal abstracts. If applicant does not have a recent writing sample, applicants are asked to respond to the following questions in a 3-5-page well-crafted essay: What do you see as three (3) major trends or issues facing higher education and student affairs? What are the implications of these trends/issues for campuses (including students, faculty, staff, or other constituents)?

8. A personal interview with program faculty may be required.

Are you interested in Higher Education & Students Affairs but not yet ready to commit to an entire program? Or perhaps you're considering taking one or two courses to use your tuition remission benefits? Consider enrolling as a non-degree student! As a non-degree student, you can take 1 -2 courses toward a graduate degree without enrolling in the program. It's a great way to explore the field, grow as a professional, and expand your professional network. 

To learn more about the non-degree application process and policies please contact  Karoline Ruhdorfer at [email protected] who will connect you to the appropriae resources. 

Our program offers three types of funding:

• Graduate Research Assistantships
• Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• Tuition Awards

Many of our students also leverage their Tuition Remission benefits from local institutions like the USM schools , JHU , or Morgan State . Tuition Remission is determined and coordinated by your institution. We encourage you to speak with your HR representative about how to use these benefits. 

Desmond Baker, Alumnus

For More Information:

• Please contact Karoline Ruhdorfer at [email protected]
• Find us on Twitter at  @MorganStateHESA

Contact Information

Dr. Steve Mobley Jr. Program Director & Associate Professor Department of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy Banneker Building #315H

P: (443) 885-3292 E:   [email protected]

Interested in Our Programs? Please contact us: https://forms.gle/YU6U6CcEDYyhSraj8

M.Ed. in Higher Education – Student Affairs Degree Transform Students’ Lives

Credit Hours

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100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Give College Students the Support They Need with an Online Master’s in Student Affairs Degree

Are you passionate about helping college students succeed? Do you want to pursue jobs that involve overseeing and developing student affairs programs and initiatives? Have you been looking to further your career in higher education administration? If so, Liberty University’s 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Higher Education – Student Affairs degree may be for you!

Student affairs professionals serve in a variety of roles at colleges and universities. Their goal is to foster students’ academic and personal development by providing a variety of helpful services outside the classroom. Some examples of services provided by student affairs professionals include:

• Academic advising
• Alumni programs
• Campus recreation
• Career services
• Commuter student life
• Counseling services
• Health and wellness programs
• Residence life
• Student activities
• Student conduct

With Liberty’s student affairs graduate program, you can learn how to enrich and improve students’ college experience. You’ll also explore core topics in higher education so you can diversify your skill set and pursue administrative positions at universities across the country. Partner with us and prepare to promote student success!

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Higher Education – Student Affairs Master’s Degree?

At Liberty, we care about who you are and who you aspire to become. We seek to train up qualified educators who want to make a positive impact on the next generation. With our master’s degree in student affairs, you can develop the tools you need to lead with integrity in Christian, public, and private school settings.

As a pioneer in distance education since 1985, Liberty seeks to offer programs that meet your needs as a student and as a professional. Our student affairs master’s program is 100% online, so you won’t have to sacrifice your time or money attending classes on campus. You can complete your assignments wherever and whenever it’s most convenient for you without putting your life on hold.

Liberty is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). You can pursue your master’s in student affairs with confidence knowing that our program has met rigorous academic standards and accreditation requirements.

What Will You Study in Our Graduate Program in Student Affairs?

Our graduate program in student affairs is broken down into 3 main parts: core higher education courses, the student affairs specialization, and professional courses. By studying under our experienced faculty, you can deepen your knowledge of higher education and explore foundational aspects of student affairs administration.

Your core courses will provide a broad overview of the postsecondary education system in the United States. You’ll examine the major trends, issues, and problems facing today’s colleges and universities and explore how financial and economic factors impact college students. You’ll also learn about various social and political issues that have shaped institutions of higher education in America. The capstone course is designed to enhance your professional development by allowing you to conduct research in the field of higher education.

Learn how to help meet your students’ academic, developmental, and economic needs. In this program, you will analyze various tools that are used to optimize student retention and performance, such as orientation programming, academic support/advising, campus life, and career guidance. You’ll also examine how policy at the federal, state, and district levels can affect decision-making in schools.

We created our student affairs area of study with your success in mind. Throughout your specialization courses, you can learn about the various functions of student affairs, student affairs administration, and critical areas of student support. You’ll also analyze current research in the field of student development and explore how theory informs best practice in the student affairs profession. By studying a theoretical and practical approach to student affairs, you can prepare to implement programs and initiatives that help your students thrive.

Potential Career Opportunities

• College/university administrator
• Educational consultant
• Educational policy analyst
• Higher education faculty
• Program coordinator
• Student affairs administrator

Featured Courses

• EDUC 658 – Introduction to Student Affairs
• EDUC 662 – Student Development Theory and Practice
• EDUC 663 – Social and Political Aspects in Higher Education
• EDUC 665 – Student Support Services and Retention

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Education .
• View the Graduate Education Course Guides (login required) .
• Liberty’s master’s in student affairs program is non-licensure.

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

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• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

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Admission Information for Liberty’s Student Affairs Master’s Program

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Unofficial transcripts can be used for acceptance purposes with the submission of a Transcript Request Form .
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your master’s degree after the last day of class for your bachelor’s degree.
• Complete a Bachelor’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official/unofficial transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show a minimum of 105 completed credit hours.
• If you are a current Liberty University student completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to submit a Degree/Certificate Completion Application .
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new master’s degree.

Dual Enrollment

Please see the Online Dual Enrollment page for information about starting graduate courses while finishing your bachelor’s degree.

Transcript Policies

Unofficial college transcript policy.

Unofficial transcripts combined with a Transcript Request Form can be used for admission. Official transcripts are required within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first, and will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Before sending unofficial college transcripts, please make sure they include the following:

• Your previous school’s name or logo printed on the document
• Cumulative GPA
• A list of completed courses and earned credit broken down by semester
• Degree and date conferred (if applicable)

Official College Transcript Policy

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

If the student uses unofficial transcripts with a Transcript Request Form to gain acceptance, all official transcripts must be received within 60 days of the admissions decision or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first. Failure to send all official transcripts within the 60-day period will prevent enrollment into future terms until all official transcripts have been received.

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

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Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

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Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course) *
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete this degree.

You can complete your master’s in student affairs online in 30 credit hours!

Are there networking opportunities to meet leaders in education?

As a Liberty student, you’ll have the opportunity to network with leaders in education from across the country.

Does this program offer flexibility?

Our 100% online courses give you the freedom to earn your master’s degree in student affairs on your schedule.

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Master of Arts Higher Education and Student Affairs

Prepare for a career in higher education. Our curriculum encompasses broad themes in the history and development of higher education both in the US and abroad, and includes the study of colleges as institutions; student learning and development; the profession of student affairs; research and assessment methods; and access to higher education and diversity.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Our degree blends academic study with practice through intensive internships at NYU and throughout the New York City metropolitan area. Part-time students combine academic study with their practice in current higher education positions.

You can select a program of study from a wide range of interdisciplinary courses, and have the option of selecting an unofficial area of study in order to design a course plan around one of the following areas: student affairs, administration and academic affairs, international education, workplace learning leadership, and social justice. 

During the final semester of study, you’ll complete a capstone project that integrates your experiences in the program into a portfolio that communicates your developing areas of interest.

Full-Time Study

All full-time students are required to have paid internships of 20 hours a week while they pursue the two-year curriculum. The internships provide a stipend and modest tuition support as well as extremely valuable practical experience and socialization into the profession. You’ll also take three courses each semester (courses are available during winter and summer breaks as well) and complete a capstone project summarizing your professional and academic development. You can complete the master’s degree in two years or fewer.

Part-Time Study

Part-time students must have a full time position in higher education to enroll in the master's program. You can individualize the pace of your part-time study, but most students complete the program in approximately three years. Courses are available during winter and summer breaks. You’ll also complete a capstone project summarizing your professional and academic development prior to graduation.

Graduates of the MA in Higher Education and Student Affairs are employed in entry-level and middle management positions in colleges and universities throughout the country. They hold positions as assistant deans, directors, and assistant directors of offices and programs in a broad spectrum of positions in student affairs and services.

Upcoming Information Sessions

Higher Education and Student Affairs Online Info Session

This session will provide key information about the Higher Education and Student Affairs Program. Join us!

Take the Next Step

Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

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Higher Education and Student Affairs, EdM

VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE Thursday, Nov. 9 Event Details Register Now

Our master's program in higher education and student affairs is for you if you wish to pursue a career in higher education working directly with college students in student affairs, academic affairs, enrollment management, or related units. Our program focuses on providing you with the skills needed to help two- and four-year institutions meet the learning and development needs of all students and to personalize the college campus. Our program is designed to meet the guidelines developed by the Council for Advancement of Standards in Higher Education criteria for master's programs. The guidelines emphasize student development, multicultural issues and practical experience.

On this page:

Why higher education and student affairs at ub.

The features of our program include:

• exposure to relevant professional organizations and issues through conferences, journals and speakers
• practical experience in assistantships, internships or professional work settings that provide opportunities to practice, apply and discuss the real-life application of theories learned in the classroom
• nationally recognized faculty based on scholarship and research, leadership in professional organizations, and significant awards
• a strong relationship with the UB Division of Student Life, which has historically supported our students and graduates
• a well-established network of colleges and universities in the Western New York area that provide opportunities for assistantships, internships and employment upon graduation

Program Overview

In the News

Faculty and student stories featuring the inspirational work happening within our walls out out in our community.

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Program Coursework

Our higher education and student affairs master's degree program (42 credit hours) is offered:

• Full time:  completed in four full-time semesters with 12 credits or more per semester.
• Part time:  completed in eight part-time semesters in less than three years. Students take two courses per semester (fall, spring and summer).

Graduate Assistantships

Assistantships are available in a variety of areas that change from year to year. Compensation for positions ranges from hourly pay only to a stipend to in-state tuition remission plus a stipend. Generally, assistantships require 20 hours of work per week. Accepted students will complete a preference form to interview for positions, based on availability.

For students applying for fall 2024 admissions consideration, there will be both in-person and virtual interview options, along with an in-person Open House. In addition to interviewing for positions, prospective students will have an opportunity to learn more about UB and the higher education and student affairs program, network with current and accepted students, and meet program faculty. This event will be held on March 8, 2024.

A sampling of offices and positions that have historically participated in our interview and selection process include:

• Residence Life/Campus Living
• Study Abroad Programs
• Student Unions
• Career Design Center
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Student Engagement - Pride and Traditions
• Student Engagement - Leadership and Greek Life
• Office of Academic Integrity
• Collegiate Science & Technology Entry Program
• Student Conduct and Advocacy
• Orientation, Parent & Transition Programs
• Alumni Engagement
• School of Social Work Office of Student Services
• School of Social Work Office of Admissions

While assistantships are limited, new opportunities also become available throughout summer and into the fall semester.

Application Requirements

You must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. 

Submit your completed online application, which includes:

• Application fee:  A $50 non-refundable application fee, submitted electronically through UB's ePayment system.
• Three references (2 academic, 1 professional)  who will each be asked to provide an electronic recommendation letter.
• Unofficial transcripts  from all colleges attended. (UB transcripts are automatically submitted for current UB students and alumni.)
• Statement of educational and career goals: 1. What qualities, characteristics and skills do you possess that make you a strong candidate for the higher education and student affairs program? 2. How does this relate to your personal and career goals? 

Former/Maiden Name:  Please provide us with your former/maiden name if you have one. When requesting transcripts, please ask the sending institution to indicate your current name and former/maiden name.

Admission Decision: The admission decision will be communicated to you as soon as review is complete. The decision is based on a number of factors and is the result of a thorough and deliberate process. All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.

In-State Residency Tuition

In order to qualify for the in-state residency tuition rate, you must provide residency documentation indicating you have lived in New York State (NYS) 12 months before your semester start date.

If accepted, you will need to upload three documents to qualify for the in-state tuition rate. See  Required Documents for Residency Application  for more information. 

International Applicant Additional Requirements

• Official original proof of your degree
• A copy of your passport biographical page
• TOEFL minimum score is 250 for computer-based test, 600 for paper-based test and 79 for internet-based test
• IELTS Academic Test minimum score is 6.5 overall
• PTE minimum score is 55 overall
• DET minimum score is 120 overall
• Financial documentation:   International graduate applicants must document their ability to pay for all costs incurred while studying in the U.S.
• An official bank statement

All financial forms and supporting documentation with required signatures must be uploaded with your application and dated within one year of your intended enrollment date.

Questions about the program?

Program Director --------------------- Dept. of Educational Leadership and Policy 477 Baldy Hall

716-645-2110 [email protected]

Your Career Starts Here

To learn more, fill out this short form and an admissions counselor will contact you shortly.

We have a collection of frequently asked questions that may help you. If your questions are still unanswered, we are glad to help! Contact our admission office .

Questions About the Admission Process?

Office of Graduate Admission

Graduate School of Education 366 Baldy Hall, North Campus 716-645-2110 [email protected]

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MS in Educational Administration: Higher Education Student Affairs

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School code

Entry Level Courses

Up to 10 credits in graduate-level coursework in education or related fields may be transferred in prior to matriculating into the Master’s degree program if approved by the faculty advisor. These transfer credits can fulfill an elective requirement or be a direct substitution of a required course. Required courses that are part of accreditation assessments cannot be substituted.

Masters' Core

ED406 Master's Research Methods

Specialization Courses

ED476 Administration of Student Affairs in Higher Education

ED485 College Students and Student Development Theory

EDU576 Contemporary Issues in Higher Education

ED437 Diversity and Equity in Higher Education

ED436 How Universities Work

ED475 Leadership and Management in Higher Education

EDU485 College Access and (In)Equity

EDE479 Assessment, Accreditation and Accountability in Higher Education

EDU490 Higher Education Law

EDU492 Governance, Policy, and Administration of Higher Education

EDU493 History of Higher Education

EDU496 Fiscal Issues in Higher Education

ED433 Student Affairs Administration: Admissions and Financial Aid

EDE485 Student Affairs Administration: Student Activities and Fraternity/Sorority Affairs

ED467 Student Affairs Administration: International Student Affairs

ED484 Student Affairs Administration: Residential Life

ED413 Student Affairs Administration: Academic Support Services

ED434 Student Affairs Administration: Minority Student Affairs

EDE487 The Role and Function of the American Community College in Higher Education

EDU454 Career Counseling and Development

EDU416 Understanding and Managing Conflict in Professional Organizations

ED430 College Retention: Theory, Research, and Practice

ED432 Professional Writing and Communications

EDE435 Service-Learning, Higher Education, and the Public Good

ED483 Communication and Counseling Skills for Teachers, Administrators, and Other Helping Professionals

EDU515 Decision Making for Educational Leaders I: Analyzing Problems in Schools and Universities

ED520 Program Evaluation

ED479 Human Capital Management in Higher Education

ED482 Technology and Higher Education

EDU446 Entrepreneurial Skills for Educators

Internships

If student works full-time, this may be waived by advisor with approval from Educational Leadership Chair, and substituted with an additional elective course.

EDF497 Supervised Internship in Higher Education (variable credits)

Additional Requirements

Master's students are required to complete a culminating experience as part of their degree program. This requirement may be met by completing a Master's Paper (for three credits as EDE 461 or zero credits) or Culminating Exam (zero credits). If meeting this requirement for zero credits, you must take another elective.

EDE461 Master's Culminating Requirement: Higher Education

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Higher Education & Student Affairs Administration

Master of Science in Education

Offered at IU Bloomington by School of Education .

The HESA master's program will provide you with experiences that combine cutting-edge research in the classroom along with hands-on experience through graduate assistantship.

The program is designed to help you achieve desired learning outcomes and will prepare you well for a career in higher education and student affairs.

You'll study with widely known faculty members and prominent higher education practitioners to acquire the knowledge, skills, competencies, and philosophy required for exemplary professional practice in 21st century postsecondary educational institutions and other settings.

Most full-time students take two academic years and one summer session to complete the degree requirements. To complete courses in the preferred sequence, students need to begin coursework in the fall semester. All students are required to hold a graduate assistantship in higher education and student affairs.

Read the requirements in the academic bulletin

Learn more about this degree program

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Higher Education and Student Affairs, Master of Arts in Educational Studies

At Ohio State, we are developing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of higher education. The master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs Program was created for students like you who are drawn to creating inclusive campus environments for students. Our faculty will help you understand what it means to focus on students and study their experiences, and you will engage in dialogues with your peers who will also foster your learning. You will become well-versed in student development theories, leadership education, organizations and environments; and use a social justice lens to make sense of your experiences.  

Program Features 

Put classroom learning immediately into practice through the vast opportunities available through multiple internships, practica, and the Student Personnel Assistantship Program, which offers fully funded positions to qualified graduate students. 

Access to higher education partnerships in Central Ohio to explore other campus contexts 

A strong partnership with the Office of Student Life to explore an expansive range of student affairs opportunities  

Opportunities for education abroad experiences 

Career Paths 

Other possible career paths with additional education include: university faculty, vice president for student affairs, provost, college president.

Funding Opportunities 

Key to teaching, research and learning in the College of Education and Human Ecology, associateships provide students with professional experience and financial support. 

The College of Education and Human Ecology annually awards scholarships to its students to support their academic goals. 

Degree Requirements

Prerequisites

Bachelor’s degree (no GRE required)

Minimum Program hours

View Higher Education and Student Affairs (EDUCST-MA, HEA) Curriculum Sheet

Deadline to apply

Program start

Autumn Semester

Additional Application Requirements

Special Statement of Intent

• Tell us why you are interested in pursuing your graduate studies. In your response, be sure to convey how the features of the HESA Program at OSU align with your professional interests and goals.

Apply to Ohio State

Application checklist

View application checklist

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Higher Education and Student Affairs EdM

Graduate school of education, program description.

The Master's program in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in student affairs administration is for you, if you wish to pursue a career in college student affairs administration. Our program focuses on providing you with the skills needed to help two- and four-year institutions meet the learning and development needs of all students, and to personalize the college campus. Our program is designed to meet the guidelines developed by the Council for Advancement of Standards in Higher Education, for master's programs. The guidelines emphasize student development, multicultural issues and practical experience.

Renad Aref 366 Baldy Hall Buffalo, NY 14260 Email: [email protected] Phone: 716-645-2110

Instruction Method

• In Person   (100 percent of courses offered in person)

Full/Part Time Options

Credits required, time-to-degree, application fee.

This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).

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School of Education

Higher education and student affairs, department of educational leadership and policy studies.

Preparing the next generation of leaders in higher education.

The Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) program has a distinguished history  of preparing future administrators to lead effectively and continues to be nationally recognized as a leader in the development of higher education scholar-practitioners. Our graduates serve as administrative leaders in postsecondary institutions throughout the country, researchers, as well as faculty members that continue to cultivate new insights and understandings in the field.

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Available programs.

B.S.Ed. in Counseling and Student Services

Higher Education and Student Affairs Track

Graduate Certificate in Academic Advising (Online, Collaborative)

M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Ph.D. in Higher Education

Ed.D. in Higher Education

Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs (Online)

Certificate in Institutional Research

Certificate in College Pedagogy (COAS)

Ph.D. Minor in College Pedagogy

Ed.D. Minor in College Pedagogy

Ph.D. Minor in Higher Education

Undergraduate Minor in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Our faculty possess a unique blend of strong scholarly records and extensive experience in senior administrative roles and bring a rich understanding of leading research in their areas of expertise along with the ability to translate their ideas into the practical world of public and institutional policymaking.

HESA Faculty are also heavily involved in funded research projects that touch on many of the pressing issues facing postsecondary education. These projects provide many opportunities for students to work directly with faculty and peers on intellectually stimulating activities. 

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Associate professor; director, center for post secondary research.

Thomas Nelson Laird

Associate dean for graduate studies.

Megan Palmer

Associate professor.

Oscar E. Patrón

Assistant professor.

Leonard Taylor

Associate professor; director of the national survey of student engagement (nsse).

Vasti Torres

Interim vice provost for undergraduate education.

Andrea Walton

Affiliated faculty.

Joan Middendorf

Lead instructional consultant, center for innovative teaching and learning.

Jason Spratt

Dean of students, iupui.

hesa@iu.edu

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Student Affairs in Higher Education

Master of Science

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Integrating Theory, Practice, and Inquiry

Through a blend of coursework and practical experiences, the SAHE program educates student affairs professionals who are prepared to address contemporary challenges of student affairs practice. Our curriculum is rooted in a social justice lens that aims to create more just and equitable student affairs practice.

In doing this work together, we strive to create inclusive and accessible learning environments in the SAHE community. Together, our students, faculty, and assistantship/practicum supervisors are learning partners who value how our different life experiences and identities, such as our race, sexual orientation, ability, gender, religion, and social class, shape our educational experiences and perspectives on student affairs practice.

Curriculum and Courses

The SAHE master’s degree program prepares students for leadership positions in student affairs in higher education. The curriculum includes a 15 credit-hour core that address foundations of student affairs, student development theory, foundations of research, educational leadership/organizational development, and diversity, equity and dialogue; a 3 credit-hour additional inquiry requirement; a 7 credit-hour concentration in either student development theory, student affairs leadership, inquiry in education, or diversity, equity and culture; 7 hours of professional development and field experience; and 10 hours of electives.

• EDL 654: Foundations of Educational Research in Higher Education
• EDL 667: Diversity, Equity, and Dialogue in Student Affairs
• EDL 675: Student Development Theory I
• EDL 676: Foundations of Student Affairs in Higher Education
• EDL 706: Educational Leadership and Organizational Development

At Miami, there’s something for everyone.

Additional opportunities.

MUSAGA, which stands for the Miami University Student Affairs Graduate Association, is the student organization for graduate students in SAHE. MUSAGA plans and provides opportunities for SAHE graduate students to transition into grad-school life and living in Oxford.

Assistantships

Assistantships are not mandatory for SAHE students, however many elect to have GA positions as they offer a modest living stipend and tuition remission. Although the SAHE program does not guarantee assistantships, all current students in the program who want an assistantship have one

Podcast: How Miami Diversifies Diversity Through Student Affairs Education

In this podcast episode, we talk about Miami’s SAHE program, and how its emphasis on critical self-reflection, personal transformation, and its ability to diversify even the concept of diversity itself make it one of the most unique and innovative programs of its kind.

Admissions Requirements

The application deadline for fall 2021 enrollment is January 2, 2021. After an initial review of applications by the SAHE faculty, select candidates will be invited to participate in one of two virtual interview sessions. The dates for the 2021 M.S. Interview Days are February 14 – 17 and February 22 – 25. Candidates will be notified of their admission status the week of February 28. Admitted students will be offered the opportunity to visit campus before the April 15 Candidate Decision Deadline. These individual and small group campus visits will be a great opportunity to see campus, meet current students, interact with other potential students, and learn more about the SAHE program.

ADMISSION AND FUNDING

This is where your journey to miami university begins.

Explore what it means to be a graduate student at Miami University, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.

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A Degree That Holds Its Worth

College for Producing Fortune 500 CEOs Nationwide

National Public University

of Master's Graduates are Successfully Employed, Enrolled in Higher Education, or in a Volunteer/Service Program

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U.S. News & World Report, 2020

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Department of Educational Leadership

Higher Education and Student Affairs Program

Welcome to the higher education and student affairs program.

Earn your Master of Arts degree in this 36-credit program alongside a small cohort of students. Apply by Dec. 1 for Fall 2024 enrollment.

Current HESA Students

The Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s Program students come from across the country, from Texas to California to Connecticut.

Meet the Students

About the Program

The focus of our master’s program is to develop reflective practitioners in student affairs. The courses and experiences are diverse and reflect the best of contemporary student affairs practice.

Application Information

Applications to the Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s Program at UConn’s Neag School are due each year by Dec. 1. Applications for Fall 2024 are now open.

Apply to HESA

“ We aim to deepen our understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion through courses and practical experiences .”

Read about the HESA program’s latest news and events, hear from current students, check out stories about where our alumni are today, keep up with our Twitter feed, and more.

Catch up on the latest news

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Explore in detail the ways in which HESA  aims to create a learning environment that develops inclusive practitioners .

Read the Statement

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Student Affairs in Higher Education M.S.

Hear from CSU’s Student Affairs in Higher Education faculty-practitioners about how you can gain practical knowledge and skills in higher education administration, working with students, program development and implementation, and DEIJ when you earn your master’s in student affairs online.

Earn your master’s degree in just two years

This online student affairs in higher education (SAHE) Master of Science degree prepares you for a career in student affairs through a curriculum taught by faculty who are both scholars and practitioners. Through the SAHE program, you will learn professional competencies needed to be successful in a wide range of settings on college and university campuses, including:

• Career Development
• Student Activities
• Residence Life
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Student Success

Gain broad professional knowledge and experience

Through coursework and practicum experience, you will gain professional knowledge and skills to help you succeed in any student services capacity, increase your ability to work directly with students, communicate effectively, and support student success.

Topics of study include:

• Theories, assessment and evaluation related to student affairs practice
• Cross-cultural, equity, and justice issues within the context of higher education
• Current issues and practices in the student affairs profession

Expand your worldview

Diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich student affairs graduate programs, so CSU aims to include students from across the United States, and around the globe, from a variety of backgrounds — including recent graduates of bachelor's programs, current employees in entry-level student affairs positions, and those with years of higher education and student affairs experience.

Take advantage of career-building opportunities

Unlike many student affairs graduate programs, CSU is one the few in the country that sponsors a journal for graduate students. Learn how to write, submit, and publish graduate-caliber work that will increase your marketability in future career paths.

Rather than completing a thesis or comprehensive exam, you will complete a culminating paper that showcases your learning, research, and practical experiences applied to current issues in student affairs in higher education. Get valuable faculty feedback that integrates real-world experience and scholarly theory to improve your practice.

Learn from experts in the field

Faculty in the School of Education have significant experience as practitioners working in the field of student affairs. By learning from and collaborating with knowledgeable instructors, you will gain access to evidence-based tools, strategies, and research.

Health and Human Science Matters Podcast

Find out how CSU’s research is making an impact by tuning into the Health and Human Science Matters Podcast , a collection of lively, engaging conversations with members of the college community.

The SAHE graduate program provides learners with a wide range of skills needed to work as a practitioner in student affairs and higher education administration in a college setting.

Graduates are currently employed in:

• Student affairs in the following areas: admissions, academic advising, alumni relations, campus activities, campus recreation, career services, dean of students, enrollment services, fraternity and sorority life, health and wellness, University housing, student conduct services, orientation and transition programs, parent and family programs, student center/union management, student leadership development, and student diversity programs
• Higher education administration in the following areas: administration, financial management, facilities management, and the general counsel's office
• Non-profit management
• Training and development in the private sector

What do our students have to say about CSU's online student affairs in higher education master's? Find out what they think about the curriculum and faculty, how they have benefitted from the program personally and professionally, and how Colorado State University Online makes it possible to fit quality education into their lives.

Kimberly Tilus-Hutchings

Hear how the SAHE program allows Kimberly to apply what she learns in her classes at 8:00 in the evening directly to her work at 8:00 the next morning at Dillard University in New Orleans.

Samantha Park

See how CSU Online allows Samantha to pursue her master's degree in student affairs at the school of her choice, regardless of where she's living.

Sheena Martinez

Hear Sheena discuss how this degree has helped her apply research-based practices to improve her job performance as a student support administrator.

Steve Willich

Watch Steve tell his story of what led him to work in GLBT student services, and how CSU's online master's program has allowed him to advance his career.

The M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education is delivered via the Canvas learning management system. This system allows you to watch lectures, engage in course content, and communicate with peers online. Courses are asynchronous, allowing you to study at the time that best fits your schedule. In your courses, you will:

• View videos and annotated PowerPoints online
• Download and review lecture notes
• Complete assigned readings
• Communicate and exchange ideas with instructors and fellow students
• Complete individual projects and collaborate on group projects
• Study for and complete exams
• Write course-related papers
• Participate in practicum experiences*

*Students are required to complete one practicum experience to develop and enhance skills related to the student affairs profession. A practicum can be completed in a wide variety of locations, either near your home or abroad.

Here are some reflections from past student experiences outside of the US:

• Joe Kowalczyk
• Khouri Markos
• Kristal Sawatzke
• Studying in Toronto

Although online learning offers flexibility, this program still requires the same amount of work as an on-campus program. Depending on your learning style, expect to spend nine to twelve hours per week on a three-credit course.

Carmen Rivera

She/Her/Hers Interim Chair, M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education

Dr. Carmen Rivera currently serves as the co-chair of the Student Affairs in Higher Education master’s program and as the Talent Manager for Organizational Development for the Division of Student Affairs at Colorado State University.

One of the first things she tells folks is that she is from northern New Mexico and where she’s from is fundamental to who she is. As a first-generation college student, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Mexican American studies and Spanish from the University of Northern Colorado. She then went on to earn her master’s degree in student affairs in higher education and her Ph.D. in higher education leadership from CSU.

Dr. Rivera's higher education career began when she worked for the Upward Bound program. She worked in TRiO for more than 13 years, then worked in international education as the Director of Student Experience at INTO CSU for several years. Additionally, she’s a faculty member for the Social Justice Training Institute and a consultant in the areas of social justice and leadership. One of her most important roles is raising her two super awesome sons with her super awesome wife. She loves 90’s R&B, travelling, cooking, and is obsessed with all things Frida Kahlo.

• B.A., Mexican American Studies and Spanish, University of Northern Colorado
• M.S., Student Affairs in Higher Education, Colorado State University
• Ph.D., Education and Human Resource Studies specializing in Higher Education Leadership, Colorado State University

View Carmen Rivera's Full Bio

Bryce Buckley

He/Him/His Business and Graduate Operations Coordinator

• Business and Graduate Operations Coordinator
• Email: [email protected]

View Full SAHE Program Leadership

Requirements.

You are required to complete 33 graduate credit hours. During your final semester, you will complete the Culminating Paper that showcases your ability to take knowledge and experience from the SAHE coursework to identify how your practice is informed by a theoretical and practical understanding of how you frame a practitioner-scholar philosophy of student affairs in higher education to meet the current needs of the field.

Sample Curriculum Timeline

Two-year completion.

• EDHE 660 – Financial Management in Student Affairs (2 cr.)
• EDHE 670 – College Student Personnel Administration (3 cr.)
• EDHE 672 – Ethical and Practical Issues – Student Affairs (2 cr.)
• EDHE 673 – Student Development Theory (3 cr.)
• EDRM 600 – Introduction to Research (3 cr.)
• EDUC 686A – Practicum-Administration (2 cr.)
• EDHE 661 – Inclusive University (3 cr.)
• EDUC 502 – Human Relations in Education (3 cr.)
• EDHE 677 – Law in Student Affairs (3 cr.)
• EDHE 676 – Organizational Behavior in Student Affairs (3 cr.)
• EDRM 667 – Assessment & Evaluation (3 cr.)

Students who need a longer timeline to degree should work with their advisor on an appropriate course plan.

Application Deadlines

Start your application online and upload materials directly into the online system. You can save your progress and return any time.

1 Review Admission Requirements

The student affairs in higher education master's degree requires that applicants have the following:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• A 3.0 GPA on all undergraduate coursework
• GRE scores are not required

While not required, undergraduate activities in student affairs or other leadership experiences are important to the application. Volunteer work after a bachelor's degree is earned is also helpful. Meeting the minimum department standards does not ensure admission to the program. Admission to Colorado State University graduate programs is based on a number of factors, including prior academic experience and completion of an admissions interview.

2 Prepare Application Materials

Prepare the materials below and upload when you apply online.

The mission of the Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education (SAHE) is to prepare well-rounded, competent, and inclusive student affairs practitioners. Our students effectively engage in critical analysis through reflection and action (praxis) to demonstrate transformative learning grounded in an ethic of love. A central component of the SAHE program is engaging in intentional, reflective practice as a foundational skill necessary to be an effective professional in student affairs. This is both a process and an outcome such that reflection-on-action happens in the program to produce practitioner-scholars who can effectively reflect-in-action as a foundational skill. Colorado State University’s Principles of Community also guide us.

Through engaging in such reflective practice, as well as receiving formal and informal feedback, students who participate fully in the learning experience offered through the SAHE program will develop knowledge, skills, and dispositions applicable to their professional practice.

The Statement of Purpose is intended to be a personal and professional statement that demonstrates your alignment with the SAHE program’s mission, values, and intended outcomes, as well as your readiness to engage SAHE’s curriculum.

Keeping all this in mind, please write your statement responding to the prompts below. Your statement must not exceed 1000 words (approximately four pages) and should be written in 12-point font and double-spaced.

• What do you understand to be the work of student affairs, within the college/university as well as the education of students, and why does that speak to you as a professional goal?
• Describe what steps of reflection guide you personally and/or professionally as you engage others.
• Please discuss a situation that highlights your strengths and challenges when working with others (e.g., academic group project, work experience, athletic team, service project, etc.).
• How do your GPA and undergraduate program of study reflect your ability to learn, reflect, and academically succeed in a graduate program?
• Why do you believe CSU and the SAHE program would be the most appropriate space for you to achieve your professional goals in student affairs?

Include any previous experience in student affairs and other relevant work experiences, along with position titles, dates of employment, institutions, and major responsibilities.

• We recommend selecting two references that are a current or former supervisor, a faculty member, and a student affairs professional.

3 Complete Online Application

Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee (payable online). As soon as you have completed the required information, please submit your application. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and all required materials have been received.

• Select "Student Affairs in Higher Education (M.S.) – Distance" when choosing the program of study.

4 Request Transcripts

Request one official transcript of all collegiate work completed from all institutions attended. Transcripts from Colorado State University are not required. Transcripts must be received directly from the originating institution to be considered official.

Please Note: Students may be unconditionally admitted and registered in their first semester of courses with an unofficial transcript. Official transcripts must be submitted, prior to or during your first semester, before you can register for your second semester of graduate work. Failure to meet this condition will result in your dismissal from the Graduate School.

Electronic (preferred): Digital Transcripts must be submitted by the originating institution using a secure service such as parchment, eScrip-Safe, the National Student Clearinghouse, or e-Quals. Transcripts received via emails are considered unofficial. Use institution code 4075 for Colorado State University or [email protected] if the secure service requires an email address.

Mail (if necessary) Graduate Admissions Colorado State University – Office of Admissions 1062 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523-1062

5 Interview for Admission

After the initial screening of applications by the SAHE faculty, candidates are contacted to set up 30-minute telephone interviews. This is also an opportunity for you to gain more information about the program.

The selection committee, comprised of SAHE faculty members who are also advisors in the program, conducts the program interviews.

Check Your Application Status

View your application status at any time to ensure your application checklist is complete or to check on updates.

Selection Timeline Applications will be reviewed after the June 1 deadline. Admit decisions will be made by late July.

For International Applicants

Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants from countries or United States territories where there are official languages other than (or in addition to) English. This includes the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.

Learn more about English language proficiency requirements .

Not quite ready to jump into a master’s program yet? Consider earning a graduate certificate first. These programs offer advanced knowledge and skills, but with less time commitment than a degree. You can also transfer your certificate credits into the Student Affairs in Higher Education Master’s program, if you decide to continue your education.

Two graduate certificates transfer credits into the SAHE master’s program:

• Campus Crisis Management
• Student Affairs Administration

Get started with a free course

If you’re unsure whether this profession would be a good fit, consider taking the Exploring the Student Affairs in Higher Education Profession free online course. If you’ve ever considered what it might be like to work in areas such as college admissions, campus recreation, enrollment services, housing and dining, or other student affairs departments, take this risk-free opportunity to learn more about the field.

We love learning about your goals and answering any questions you have.

Program Details

• 3.0 GPA on all undergraduate coursework
• Math Entrance Exam scores recommended for applicants who have not taken the required prerequisites within the past 10 years

Application Dates

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Department of Educational Administration

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Master’s Degree in Student Affairs Administration

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The Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education (HALE) Student Affairs Administration (SAA) Master’s Degree Program at Michigan State University provides future student affairs professionals the knowledge and skills to work with students and to cultivate educational environments promoting diversity and multiculturalism.

In the MSU SAA MA Program, we believe higher education has not achieved equity for all groups, and part of our responsibility in the student affairs profession is to move higher education closer to equity and justice. We also acknowledge and celebrate the multiple, intersecting identities of students, instructors, and program staff. Therefore, within the program, we aspire to create an inclusive environment that supports individual and community learning in the context of a sense of belonging and commitment to the holistic development of individuals and our community.

We do this work by embodying critical considerations of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) across curricular and practical experiences. Looking outward to MSU, the field of student affairs, and the higher education ecosystem, we aspire to create and undertake educational experiences that equip SAA graduates to take up the challenges, injustices, and opportunities of higher education.

About the SAA MA Program

In our program, graduate students gain a broad perspective of higher education systems from social, historical, and global perspectives. Highlights of the program include:

• Thirty-six (36) credit hours completed over 2 years (full time)
• Eight (8) core courses and 4 electives
• An in-person cohort model enrolling 15–20 students per year from across the U.S. and abroad
• One (1) required practicum experience  
• Graduate assistantship opportunities across various student affairs functional areas  
• World-class faculty specializing in higher education and student affairs  
• Graduate certificate options , including the HALE graduate certificate in Teaching & Learning in Postsecondary Education  
• The SAA Forum, providing professional and academic development opportunities
• Opportunities to gain teaching experience, including through mentored teaching apprenticeships 

Prospective Students

Prospective students interested in applying to the SAA MA Program should visit our Application Information webpage to review application requirements, the application deadline, and learn more about our program.

Connect with SAA

Click on the icons below to follow SAA on Instagram, connect with us on LinkedIn, and check out the SAA Linktree.

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What Our Students and Partners Say About Us

“My decision to pursue the SAA MA Program at Michigan State was made much easier due to the amount of acceptance and belonging I felt while going through the admissions process and attending Spartan Preview Days (SPD). During SPD, I saw first-hand how the program’s cohort model provides a support network and community of like-minded individuals who lift each other up and support one another’s accomplishments. This community has made such an impact on my experience as I progress in my education and pursue all of the opportunities the program offers.” –Dallin Perkes, SAA MA Class of 2024

“For more than 70 years, the Michigan State University Student Affairs Administration program has led the field in preparing future Student Affairs professionals. Faculty, comprised of leading scholars in the field, provide graduates with a solid foundation to be top-notch practitioners. The Division of Student Life & Engagement provides graduate assistantships and practica experiences to enhance the classroom learning experience. We believe our graduates are prepared to be leaders, scholars, and contributors to advancing knowledge and transforming lives.” –Vennie Gore, Senior Vice President for Student Life and Engagement

What SAA Faculty Say About Teaching Future Professionals

“Teaching graduate students as they prepare for a career in student affairs provides eternal hope that we can…and must…be better as a field and as student affairs educators.”

— Dr. Patricia Marin , Associate Professor, Coordinator, SAA MA Program

“One of the best parts of my job is the opportunity to see the future of the field in and through the students in MSU SAA. And that future is BRIGHT!”

— Dr. Kristen Renn , Professor, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies for Student Success Research

“One of the important roles I play is helping SAA graduate students to understand they don’t just make a difference in the lives of students, they ARE the difference. Student affairs professionals do exceptionally valuable work to make a difference in the lives of college students who, in turn, will change the world.”

— Dr. Matt Wawrzynski , Professor, Coordinator, Teaching and Learning in Postsecondary Education Graduate Certificate Program

“I love working alongside the many talented student affairs professionals in the SAA program to reimagine how we can collectively transform colleges and universities into equity-minded, liberatory communities of learning.”

—Dr. Justin A. Gutzwa, Assistant Professor

Three points of distinction

Among the best.

HALE programs are  ranked #1 in the nation for higher education administration (U.S. News & World Report) .

FOCUS ON THEORY-TO-PRACTICE

Our program helps students connect theory-to-practice through immersive field experiences, teaching and research opportunities, invited speakers, and more.

ROBUST NETWORK OF ALUM

SAA MA Alum work in student affairs and higher education across the globe. SAA MA Alum can keep connected by updating their contact information on MSU’s Alumni Office website .

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Wed . Sep . 18 2024

CED Supervisor Training Session – Payroll Best Practices

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Erickson 252

Tue . Sep . 17 2024

CED Supervisor Training Session – Healthy Work Environments & Healthy Relationships

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Erickson Hall KIVA

Fri - Sat . Sep . 13 - 14 2024

Student Affairs Administration 75th Anniversary Celebration Weekend

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Member spotlight.

I joined NASPA in 2002 when I started working in student affairs. This national association has offered many opportunities for mentorship and professional development over the years. I have taken on various volunteer roles at regional conferences, on the Region V board, and within Knowledge Communities. A notable highlight was serving as the Co-Chair of the CLDE Knowledge Community. This experience connected me with colleagues in the field and provided valuable resources during the challenging times of the pandemic and a national election.

Amy Koeckes

Senior Associate Director, Student Engagement Outreach University of Nevada, Reno -- Region V

I cannot imagine my career in student affairs without my involvement in NASPA! I started by engaging in the Knowledge Communities, including serving as Co-Chair for the SAPAA and WISA KCs, as National Director of KCs and as a member of the NASPA Board of Directors. I regularly attended and presented at annual conferences and participated in the Alice Manicur Symposium, the NASPA New VPSA institute, and the Equity Leadership Academy. I am the faculty director for the upcoming 2025 NASPA Alice Manicur Symposium. NASPA is my professional home and family – where I go to be informed, inspired, challenged, connected, and supported. There is a place in NASPA for everyone. I heart NASPA!

Leanna Fenneberg, Ph.D.

Senior Vice President for Student Life Duquesne University -- Region II

As a newer member to NASPA but not the Student Affairs field, it has been professionally refreshing to dig into the wealth of resources available through this association. Having access to so many publications, unique learning opportunities, events, as well as the ability to connect with peers and mentors is invaluable. I look forward to continuing to be a part of this community!

Jaime Takahashi

Peer Learning Coordinator University of Lethbridge -- Region V

My initial membership with NASPA dates back to 2007, however, more recently I have found my home with volunteer experiences in Region IV-E, with the AVP Steering Committee, and as a Faculty member and now Institute Director of the NASPA Institute for New AVPs. My involvement has given me many tools to enhance my experiences as a professional while also having the opportunity to give back to a field that I love dearly.

Taléa R. Drummer-Ferrell, Ph.D.

Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students Kent State University -- NASPA Region IV-E

I've been a NASPA member since 2011 and have been volunteering in different capacities throughout my time in NASPA. Since 2019, I've been serving as one of Region I's Foundation Ambassadors and have enjoyed educating members about the opportunities available to them through the Foundation as well as raising money to hit our goals each year. I have made invaluable friendships and professional connections through NASPA and am thankful I decided to get involved over a decade ago.

Laura Flynn

Foundation Board Member

Director of Orientation and First Year Experience Brandeis University -- Region I

My engagement with NASPA since the outset of my career in 2018 has proven to be pivotal in my professional development. NASPA has seamlessly provided an invaluable platform for continuous learning and networking, particularly within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Through this association, I have had the privilege of connecting with DEI peers from across the country, gaining profound insights and knowledge from their experiences and practices. The collaborative efforts within NASPA have significantly enhanced my ability to contribute to the creation of inclusive spaces for students, making it an indispensable asset in my ongoing journey of professional growth.

Kayla Gill, MSW

Senior Program Advisor University of Kentucky -- NASPA Region III

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Higher Education and Student Affairs

The M.A.E. in Higher Education and Student Affairs is a two-year program with a minimum of 30 credits required for graduation. Currently, two concentrations are offered: General Administration . The concentration in College Student Personnel Affairs prepares practitioners for positions in student affairs administration at the post-secondary level. The concentration in General Administration introduces students to theory, research, policy, and practice related to higher education administration. Combined, the student affairs programs support the mission of the higher education programs of preparing students to become competent student affairs professionals in higher education administration and management.

General Student Affairs Program Approach

Courses generally meet once a week in the evening. Study is available on a full- or part-time basis. The small size of the master's in higher education and student affairs program at Seton Hall University allows for frequent faculty interaction and close work with your adviser. We are committed to maintaining a small, selective and focused program that will prepare our graduates to pursue a range of possible careers.

Why Earn a Masters in Higher Education and Student Affairs?

Earning a Master's in Higher Education and Student Affairs positions graduates from some of the best student affairs graduate programs for impactful careers in higher education. This program cultivates student affairs students with comprehensive student affairs knowledge, preparing them for diverse roles within higher education institutions. Through a curriculum that balances theory and practical application, the student affairs program equips graduates to effectively support student development and engagement on college campuses.

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Master's Program, Higher Ed Leadership

Seton Hall University's graduate program in Higher Education Leadership prepares students for future careers leading colleges and universities.

Admissions Requirements

• Online Application
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Current professional vitae/resume  
• Letter of intent outlining your personal and professional goals  
• T wo (2) letters of recommendation   

Application Deadlines

The program accepts applications throughout the year , with the following deadlines based on intended start date .  

• Fall Entry – March 15 application deadline    
• Spring Entry – October 15 application deadline  
• Summer Entry – March 15 application deadline

*Additional applications may be accepted beyond the recommended deadlines on a space available basis only.

Application Review

A decision regarding your application will be made approximately six (6) weeks after the deadline.   If you are accepted but all classes are full, you will automatically be placed on a waiting list for the next year, or for the upcoming session, if openings become available.  

The faculty in the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media are expert researchers and practitioners in teacher and leader preparation as well as professional psychology and family therapy. Many are actively engaged with schools and community agencies, modeling best practices to their students in the university classroom and in the field. Collaboration within departments and across is encouraged with the recognition that supporting and improving the lives of children, families and communities is a complex process. 

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The College of Human Development, Culture, and Media embodies the University’s commitment to pedagogical innovation, intellectual ferment and community engagement. Uniting scholars and students from four dynamic academic departments, the College provides cutting-edge, transdisciplinary inquiry into the stickiest problems of our time.

Our collaborative ethos is the hallmark of a Seton Hall education: an interdisciplinary approach to learning that grounds students firmly in their chosen discipline while expanding their perspectives through collaboration — setting them apart in their ability to lead in a variety of fields and solve pressing problems in society.

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• Office of Graduate Affairs [email protected] (973) 275-2892

Higher Education and Student Affairs (MSEd)

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Higher Education and Student Affairs

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Program Format

Program learning outcomes/faculty, what can i do with a degree in higher education and student affairs, why choose siue, hands-on learning.

The higher education and student affairs (HESA) program prepares its graduates for entry and mid-level professional positions in higher education administration in student affairs. 

At program completion, HESA students are expected to have the knowledge, skills and perspectives to serve college students and foster their learning and development in a wide variety of student affairs areas. These areas include, but are not limited to: 

• Student life
• Financial aid
• Career services
• Intercollegiate athletics
• Fraternity and sorority life
• International programs

This program follows the standards set by the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education. The program curriculum is centered around four core components adapted from ACPA/NASPA professional competencies:

• Student development
• Social justice and inclusion
• Advising and support
• Assessment, evaluation and research with an emphasis on critical social justice

The mission of the HESA program is to develop a strong academic community of critical scholar-practitioners to advance social justice in their practice of higher education and student affairs. We seek to develop socially just scholar-practitioners who are highly engaged in the field of higher education and student affairs. Diversity and critical social justice concepts are addressed across the curriculum, specifically in the college student development and diversity in higher education courses. We are dedicated to addressing issues of social injustice intersectionally and examining how race, gender, class, sexual orientation, religion and other forms of oppression overlap fortifying a matrix of domination.

Evening classes are offered for both full-time and part-time students. A mix of traditional, hybrid and online courses are offered. 

The athletics specialization and the post-baccalaureate certificate in athletic leadership are offered fully online.

Program Learning Outcomes

The HESA program features a distinctive graduate experience, which requires core coursework, a professional portfolio and a final capstone project. 

Students develop an individualized final capstone project focused on contemporary or historical issues in higher education. The final capstone project is supervised by a faculty member.

View current Department of Educational Leadership faculty

The HESA program prepares graduates for entry and mid-level professional positions in higher education administration in student affairs:  

• Student life  
• Financial aid   
• Housing   
• Career services   
• International programs  

Recent graduates have found employment as academic advisors; residence hall directors; first-year experience coordinators; and student activities coordinators at both private and public postsecondary institutions.

• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The HESA program fosters a strong commitment to increasing awareness of the diversity of student populations and to social justice. The SIUE campus has been recognized regularly for its commitment to diversity. The University received the 2021 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. SIUE joins a select group of 11 institutions that have earned the distinction for at least eight consecutive years. The non-profit group Campus Pride ranked SIUE in the top 100 among the 2021 Most Affordable LGBTQ-Friendly Colleges and Universities. SIUE’s LGBTQ-Friendly Campus Climate index and Sexual Orientation scores are 4.5 out of 5 stars. SIUE's Gender Identity/Expression score is 4 out of 5 stars.
• Location and Affordability: SIUE is located 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis, allowing graduate students to benefit from the boundless opportunities St. Louis offers. In-state tuition is available for all U.S. graduate students. 

Professional Experiences Students complete six credit hours of HESA 554: Practicum and Professional Development. Full-time students fulfill field hours in the summer semester of their first year in the graduate program. During the last semester of the program, students will take a professional development capstone (3 credit hours). Only full-time students are required to complete the practicum field hour requirement. Part-time students with professional experience can substitute practicum coursework for elective coursework.

Graduate Assistantships Students can apply for assistantships through the graduate school. Most assistantships provide a stipend and tuition waivers to subsidize the cost of higher education. 

Additional assistantship information can be found on the graduate school website . Assistantships specific to student affairs are also available.

Specialization Available

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is authorized to operate as a postsecondary educational institution by the  Illinois Board of Higher Education .

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Home » Student Affairs in Higher Education (M.S.)

Student Affairs in Higher Education (M.S.)

Begin your career in student affairs administration with a Master of Science in student affairs in higher education. You’ll be prepared for roles in a variety of education and service areas in postsecondary settings.

You’ll complete 45 credit hours in two years for full-time students or four years for part-time students. The curriculum has 7 learning outcome domains focused on:

• Contemporary and foundational scholarship in student affairs
• Supporting student learning and success
• Equity and justice
• Systems, structures, and organizational behavior
• Research and assessment
• Self in/as professional
• Practitioner-scholarship

You’ll engage in critical analysis, critical reflection and praxis, and transformative learning. Curriculum is organized according to four core course areas designed to meet the student affairs professional competencies developed by ACPA and NASPA, the two primary professional associations for student affairs educators.

Master of Science (M.S.) in Student Affairs in Higher Education

• Contact your department representative or request more program information .
• Check out department requirements and resources from your department’s website.
• This program is offered on-campus and online at a distance; resources for distance students are available through the CSU Online website.
• When you’re ready to take the leap, start your application .

Western Regional Graduate Program

As an eligible resident of a Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) member state or territory, you may be admitted to the on-campus format of this program, yet pay resident tuition rates. Only on-campus formats are WRGP eligible. Visit our WRGP webpage to learn about eligibility and the application process.

Requirements

Coursework, credit requirements, and more information is available in the Colorado State University general catalog . Please contact your department representative with program-related questions.

Student Employment

Graduate students interested in employment positions (GTA, GRA, GSA appointments and hourly positions) should contact their advisor and their departmental graduate coordinator for the process to apply.

Financial Aid

• Financial aid resources available through the Office of Financial Aid website.
• Your department may have financial aid options available and please check our financial resource section for additional opportunities.

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Master of Education in Student Affairs in Higher Education

The Master of Education in Student Affairs in Higher Education (SAHE) prepares graduate students for a career in a variety of student affairs settings, such as academic advising, career centers, student unions, international student services, multicultural affairs, orientation programs, residence life and student activities.

Marquette University’s mission as a Jesuit institution is to foster personal and professional excellence, promote a life of faith, and develop leadership expressed in service to others. The College of Education has a deep commitment to the development of practitioners who will demonstrate a commitment to social justice in their work.

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Why SAHE at MU?

• Marquette’s SAHE program attracts academically-minded students interested in learning how theory relates to real world practice.
• Small cohort enhances learning and ensures personal attention for each student.
• Faculty possess strong student affairs backgrounds and professional connections.
• Marquette University has a robust Division of Student Affairs, and staff members who serve as teachers and mentors, supporting students’ learning and development.
• The MU campus is vibrant, with students populating the campus on both weekdays and weekends. With the city center just blocks away, there is always something to see or do.
• Assistantships and practica provide students with hands on experience to develop, implement, and refine the skills required for effective student affairs practice.
• With over 13 colleges in the metropolitan area, Milwaukee is a virtual learning laboratory for student affairs professionals.
• The culmination of students' coursework is a theory-to-practice Capstone course in which students are paired with student affairs offices to integrate their learning to solve a real world problem or issue.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of Marquette’s Student Affairs in Higher Education program can expect to be able to:

• Use appropriate student development, organizational, and environmental theories to analyze issues related to students and Student Affairs practice.
• Interpret and apply research to students and Student Affairs practice
• Apply leadership, organizational, assessment, and management practices to professional work in student affairs functional areas.
• Apply professional standards and principles of law, ethics, and social justice to student affairs work.
• Support the learning and development of a diverse student population.

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College Counseling and Student Development

CCSD prepares graduates for careers in student affairs and higher education by developing critical praxis–critical thinking that combines reflection and action–in student development, social justice, and helping skills.

Our core values include:

Student Development:   CCSD features critical examination of student learning and development theories and their application in student affairs. Social Justice:   Our program examines inherited systems of power and how they shape student affairs, emphasizing self-reflexivity and agency to advance social justice and inclusion. Helping Skills:   Our program foregrounds helping skills, advising, and supporting strategies to facilitate holistic wellness for our graduates and their students.

Application Process

The College Counseling and Student Development Master of Science program admits a new cohort each fall semester. The priority application deadlines are January 15 and March 15. After the priority deadline, applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis until the cohort is filled.

• $40 application fee
• Personal statement as to why you'd like to pursue this degree
• Current resume
• Contact information for two people (1 professional, 1 academic, if possible) to upload  letters of recommendation
• Unofficial   transcripts
• English proficiency requirements
• After an initial review of applications by CCSD faculty, select candidates will be invited to participate in CCSD Interview Days (scheduled after each priority deadline in January and March; rolling dates thereafter)
• Priority offers for admission will be made in February and March
• Candidate priority admission and funding commitment deadline: April 15

Program Faculty

Dr. Aeriel A. Ashlee

• Associate Professor

(320) 308-4169

[email protected]

Prior to joining the CCSD faculty, Dr. Ashlee worked in student affairs and higher education for more than a decade in a variety of functional areas including service-learning, multicultural affairs, international education, and social justice education. Her research interests include critical autoethnography as healing and liberatory methodology, poststructural possibilities for student affairs praxis, and the racialized experiences of underrepresented Asian Americans in higher education (specifically transracial adoptees and Hmong Americans).

Dr. Ashlee earned a Ph.D. in Student Affairs and Higher Education from Miami University in Ohio; a M.S. in Counseling and College Student Personnel from the University of Maryland, College Park; and a B.A. in Strategic Communication from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. She is the proud mama to Azaelea Grace and lives with her family and their cat Samma in Minneapolis.

Dr. Dan Macari

• Graduate Director

(320) 308-1044

[email protected]

Dr. Macari is a professor in the College Counseling and Student Development program in the Department of Community Psychology, Counseling, and Family Therapy. He holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Nevada as well as a  BA in Psychology from the State University of New York at Buffalo.  Dan has been teaching at SCSU since 2004 where he served as the Coordinator of the CCSD program for more than a dozen years and also served as the Faculty Director of the University Honors Program. Prior to working at SCSU, Dr. Macari worked in a variety of positions in college student affairs and mental health and addictions counseling in California and Nevada.  While he primarily teaches classes in the College Counseling and Student Development program, he also teaches undergraduate courses in the community psychology major.   

One of Dr. Macari’s greatest passions is study abroad and he has facilitated more than a dozen trips to various countries around the world including his favorite locations; South Africa, Australia, Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia. Dan lives in St Cloud with his partner Jennifer, his son Sam, and his cat Boo-Boo. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When are applications due, does ccsd require gre scores, who should my letters of recommendation be from.

The CCSD faculty require two letters of recommendation. Ideally one of your letters should be a professional reference and the other should be an academic reference. Letters that address both your in-class and out-of-class experiences are most helpful. Letters of recommendation should address your ability to succeed in the CCSD master’s program.

Recommenders will receive an emailed request to upload their letters to our systems.

What is the difference between the CCSD practicum and internship?

Both the CCSD practicum and internship provide students with invaluable experiential learning. However, the practicum experience is coordinated by the CCSD program faculty and occurs in the spring semester of the first year of coursework, whereas the internship experience is individualized by each student and occurs throughout the second year of coursework.

Through the practicum experience, CCSD students gain hands-on experience applying helping skills with undergraduate students at St. Cloud State University. CCSD students intern in a functional area and institution of their choosing. Past internships experiences have included sexual assault advocacy work, career advising at the University of Minnesota, working with LGBTQ+ students at Augsburg College, regional admission counseling, among many others!

Is the CCSD program open to international students?

Can you tell me more about assistantships, can i visit st. cloud state university to learn more about the ccsd program.

We do not offer formal CCSD campus visits. However, if you would like to schedule a 30-minute Zoom call to learn more about our program curriculum and faculty, please contact us at [email protected] .

You can also request a campus tour from the School of Graduate Studies team.