With an online masters in higher education, you can make a positive difference in the lives of postsecondary students. Completing your degree can prepare you for an exciting career in higher education administration, academic counseling, or teaching.
The term higher education refers to postsecondary education, meaning that it’s on a higher educational level than high school.
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This covers a wide array of educational institutions, including colleges, universities, junior colleges, community colleges, and professional trade schools. Read on to explore the advantages of getting a master’s in higher education administration online.
Universities Offering Online Master’s in Higher Education Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
1. Abilene Christian University
Abilene Christian University’s higher education master’s program seeks to inspire graduate students and teach them to build innovative, nurturing environments that retain enrollment and entice new students.
It’s a good foundation for students interested in pursuing doctoral degrees and features concentrations in student affairs leadership, conflict resolution, and academic advising.
Abilene Christian University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
2. Angelo State University
The Master of Education in Student Development and Leadership program at Angelo State University helps prepare students for leadership positions on college campuses. It’s a non-academic focused degree, instead preparing students for jobs in enrollment management, candidate development, residential programs and career services.
Many graduate-level scholarships are available to qualified students.
Angelo State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
3. Appalachian State University
Appalachian State University’s Master of Arts in Higher Education program offers a community college and university leadership concentration to students seeking employment in mid-management and upper-level management at post-secondary institutions.
The program requires two years to complete, and coursework is completed online.
Appalachian State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
4. Bay Path University
Students enrolled in Bay Path University’s higher education administration master’s program should have access to a wider range of career options and a deeper understanding concerning contemporary issues in higher education upon graduating.
Focus is placed on learning to identify emerging education trends and to create innovative solutions to challenges.
Bay Path University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
5. Boston University
Boston University offers an online master’s in higher education administration through its Wheelock College of Education & Human Development. Course topics focus on the social, legal, historical and current issues in higher education.
Graduates should be prepared for careers in institutional research, enrollment, alumni relations, career advisement, and student life.
Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
6. Capella University
The Master of Science in Higher Education at Capella University has three concentrations from which students can choose: adult education, integrative studies, and higher education leadership and administration. Students can transfer up to 12 previously earned credits, and they can choose up to six electives to customize their curricula.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
7. Central Washington University
Central Washington University offers a Master of Education in Higher Education program with a concentration in curriculum, supervision and educational leadership.
It’s an intensive, 45 credit hour program including ten core courses, two electives, a capstone project, and a comprehensive examination at the end. The program is offered entirely online.
Central Washington University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
8. Colorado State University
Colorado State University students can enroll in the student affairs in higher education master’s program online. The program teaches students to become proficient in residence life, financial aid, advising, student activities, and admissions.
Course topics include theories, assessments and evaluations of academic affairs, diversity, and current issues in student affairs.
Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
9. Concordia University – Chicago
The Master of Arts in Leadership: Higher Education degree program at Concordia University – Chicago can be completed in as few as 12 months. Courses focus on perfecting the leadership skills many students already possess.
These include courses to improve management, decision-making, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Diversity training is also important.
Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
10. Columbus State University
Columbus State University offers a Master of Education in Educational Leadership program with a concentration in higher education administration. This program is for students wanting to take on leadership and administrative roles in higher education.
Courses feature an open-learning format, allowing students to collaborate with and challenge each other intellectually.
Columbus State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
11. Dallas Baptist University
The Master of Education in Higher Education at Dallas Baptist University is a 36 credit hour, non-thesis degree program specifically designed to give students advanced knowledge in college and university leadership qualities. There are two tracks from which students can choose – the instructional track or the administration track.
Dallas Baptist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
12. DePaul University
DePaul University offers both a Master of Arts and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. There are eight concentrations from which to choose including physical education, principal license, Catholic leadership, and higher education.
This higher education degree prepares students for careers in a variety of leadership and administrative positions.
DePaul University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
13. Drexel University
Drexel University’s Master of Higher Education Leadership program teaches students about management, student development, diversity, globalization and recruitment. It’s an interdisciplinary degree offered entirely online, and assignments, including the capstone, are highly customizable.
The six concentrations offered include education policy, enrollment management, global and international education and student development and affairs.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
14. Duquesne University
The 30 credit Master of Science in Higher Education Administration degree program at Duquesne University includes a curriculum designed for students seeking employment in marketing and communication, admissions, enrollment management, development, or educational technology.
Duquesne believes in a holistic approach to education. Courses are flexible, and accelerated programs are also offered.
Duquesne University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
15. Florida International University
Students at Florida International University enrolled in the Master of Science in Higher Education Administration degree program can earn their degrees in as few as 12 months. There are no GRE requirements, and tuition is the same for residents and non-residents alike. The curriculum is comprehensive and includes a practicum experience.
Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
16. Georgetown University
Georgetown University offers an online master’s in higher education administration that provides students with applied, practical knowledge for use in higher education careers. The degree requires 33 credit hours and takes between two and five years to earn. Ethics, leadership, and social justice are at the core of the curriculum.
Georgetown University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
17. Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University offers a hybrid master’s program in higher education. There are two areas of emphasis: college student affairs leadership (CSAL) and adult and higher education (AHE). The CSAL program requires 42 credits to complete and includes a practicum component; the AHE requires 36 credit hours to complete.
Grand Valley is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
18. Hofstra University
Students enrolled in Hofstra University’s higher education leadership and policy studies master’s program explore historic and current issues involving leadership and administration in colleges.
The program is designed to help students cultivate in-depth knowledge of the operation and governance of post-secondary institutions and explore their own leadership styles. It requires 36 credits for completion.
Hofstra University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
19. Indiana State University
Professionals seeking career advancements in the fields of financial aid, admissions, student development, and other similar higher education positions often enroll in Indiana State University’s Master of Science in Student Affairs and Higher Education.
The curriculum includes class-based coursework, supervised practiced coursework, independent learning experiences, and hands-on practicum experiences.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
20. John Brown University
John Brown University’s Master of Arts in Higher Education degree requires 30 credits for completion and can be finished in under two years.
Notable courses in the curriculum include law and higher education, administrative leadership in higher education, history and philosophy of American higher education, and organizational management and leadership.
John Brown University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and School.
21. Liberty University
Liberty University’s master’s program in higher education has NCATE accreditation through the CAEP and often takes only one year to earn. It requires 30 credit hours for completion, but students can transfer up to half of those from a previously attended college. Courses run in eight week sessions, and they are flexible.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
22. Louisiana State University
The Master of Arts in Education program at Louisiana State University includes a higher education administration concentration that allows students to build professional portfolios to showcase their work, can be completed online and doesn’t require GRE scores for admission. Class size is capped at 20 students for a personal experience.
Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
23. Michigan State University
Michigan State University’s Master of Arts in Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education program was recently ranked fourth in the nation for higher education administration programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Upon program completion, students should be able to connect theoretical understandings to actual practice, engage in disciplined self-reflection, and understand issues central to post-secondary leadership.
MSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
24. Mississippi College
Mississippi College is a Christian university that infuses Christian values into every course. The same is true for its master of higher education administration degree program.
Coursework includes basic effective leadership, law and higher education, research methods and procedures, finance in higher education, and basic understandings in higher education administration.
Mississippi College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
25. National University
The Master of Education in Leadership in Higher Education program at National University can potentially be completed in 15 months. The program boasts a 100% doctoral faculty, and the curriculum is flexible, with weekly start dates, no group assignments, few required due dates, and no scheduled lecture hours.
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
26. North Park University
Students in North Park University’s Master of Higher Education Administration program will take 13 core courses and five electives. The program usually takes about two and a half years to complete, but it has been finished in 21 months by some students. Many core courses focus on non-profit organizations and leadership.
North Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
27. Northeastern University
Northeastern University’s Master of Education in Higher Education Administration program combines a theoretical foundation with real-world application and experience to provide students with the skills needed to gain jobs in higher education management. Students can enroll as part-time or full-time students and can usually finish in less than two years.
Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
28. Northern Arizona University
The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program at Northern Arizona University allows students to specialize in community college and higher education.
The core curriculum focuses on providing students with innovative, up-to-date leadership skills, preparing them for jobs with private and public organizations, and giving them firm foundations in research methodologies.
NAU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
29. Ohio University
Ohio University’s master in higher education program is specifically designed for professionals working in post-secondary institutions who want to advance their skills, knowledge, and careers.
Courses teach students about the history, contexts, and purpose of higher education. Diversity, ethics, law, and policy-making are also important parts of the curriculum.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
30. Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
Students at Pennsylvania State University – World Campus can earn their Master of Education in Higher Education degrees in only 30 credit hours. They can immerse themselves in an intensive program that’s been educating higher education professionals for over five decades.
There are 18 core credits, six elective credits, and six concentration-specific credits.
Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
31. Post University
There are two concentrations available in Post University’s Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership program. They are administrative leadership and student affairs.
The program curriculum covers analysis of demographic trends, delivery of all aspects of student services, research, assessment and evaluation practices and leadership, and change management theory.
Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
32. Saint Peter’s University
Saint Peters University is a Jesuit University in New Jersey. It offers a Master of Higher Education in General Administration program to students interested in undertaking leadership positions in the post-secondary roles of marketing management, admissions, and other similar fields. The school also offers an online doctorate in higher education.
Saint Peter’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
33. Sam Houston State University
The Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration program at Sam Houston State University has had NCATE accreditation since 1954. It features a diverse, up-to-date and innovative curriculum specifically designed to help students perfect their research and career-related skills.
Certificates are also available in assessment and institutional research and academic advising.
SHSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
34. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University’s master’s program in higher education administration has one of the lowest tuition rates in the entire nation. The program is entirely flexible, accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can be completed in as few as 15 months. Courses are data-driven and hands-on.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
35. Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University students interested in higher education administration have two options. They can select the 36 credit Master of Arts program or the 18 credit advanced graduate certificate program.
The curriculum aligns with NASPA and ACPA professional competencies and includes courses on student affairs, leadership, and college and university operations.
Stony Brook University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
36. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University’s Master of Education in Higher Education Administration program teaches students to use empirical evidence to develop solutions for post-secondary education institutions, apply theories and practical research to solve problems of practice, and deliver public service to the field of higher education.
It requires 36 credits for completion.
Texas Tech University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
37. Tiffin University
Tiffin University’s higher education administration master’s program is specifically designed for professionals wanting to work in post-secondary institutions in non-academic positions.
The curriculum provides a great overview of all the non-academic higher education administration fields such as financial aid, student affairs, orientation, campus security, sports program administration, academic advising, and admissions.
Tiffin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
38. University of Houston
Students hoping to enter into University of Houston’s Master of Education in Higher Education must first take the GRE. The 36 credit program combines theoretical foundations with hands-on, practical experiences to prepare students for leadership careers within post-secondary institutions.
Courses focus on leadership, assessment and evaluation, and student development.
The University of Houston is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
39. University of Houston – Victoria
University of Houston – Victoria offers a Master of Education in Adult and Higher Education program with three available tracks: the higher education track, the adult education track, and the discipline and instruction track. Depending on the specific track, students could be required to earn 36 or 39 credits to graduate.
The University of Houston-Victoria is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
40. University of Louisville
University of Louisville’s Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree is ideal for professionals already working in post-secondary institutions or looking to make a career change.
There are four concentrations students can select including teaching and learning, administration, sports administration, and policy and equity. No GRE scores are required.
The University of Louisville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
41. University of Mississippi
The Master of Arts in Higher Education program at University of Mississippi is a 30 credit program that provides professional preparation for people hoping to gain employment at post-secondary institutions.
Notable courses include power, persuasion and politics, college and the student, organization and governance, and human resources in higher education.
The University of Mississippi is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
42. University of Rochester
University of Rochester offers students an entirely customizable and flexible master’s program in higher education.
There are several rigorous, comprehensive core and specialization courses from which to choose, and the wide variety of electives allow students to customize the program to their prospective career needs. Additional certificates can be earned as well.
The University of Rochester is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
43. University of Sioux Falls
At the University of Sioux Falls, students have numerous options when it comes to education master’s programs, including a fully accredited and 100% online Master of Education in Educational Administration and Adult and Higher Education program.
The school has also partnered with Bethel University to offer graduate-level scholarships to eligible students.
The University of Sioux Falls is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
44. University of Southern Maine
University of Southern Maine’s Master of Science in Adult and Higher Education program has been educating students since 1972. The school now offers the degree online to students hoping to get jobs as staff development specialists, directors of adult education, academic advisors, research associates and other jobs within post-secondary institutions.
The University of Southern Maine is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
45. University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
The Master of Science in Education program at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse has been offered online since 2007. There is now a concentration in student affairs administration being offered online as well. It’s a 36 credit hour program with a small average cohort size of only 16 students.
The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
46. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee offers students an online master’s program in adult, continuing, and higher education administration. Strong focus is placed on preparing students to become leaders within urban higher education institutions.
As a result, much of the curriculum includes diversity, global awareness, and understanding diverse educational needs of students.
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
47. University of Wyoming
The Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree program at University of Wyoming prepares students to tackle issues concerning adult learning, institutional operations, workforce training, and rural access to continuing education.
There’s an even mixture of research, theory and hands-on practice to provide students with both knowledge and practical skills.
The University of Wyoming is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
48. Upper Iowa University
Upper Iowa University offers seven specific concentrations within its Master of Education program. One of these is in higher education. The curriculum for this concentration focuses on teaching in a multicultural institution, leadership and governance in higher education and the politics of higher education.
Scholarships are available through T.E.A.C.H grants to qualified students.
Upper Iowa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
49. Walden University
The Master of Science in Higher Education program at Walden University offers seven specific concentrations including adult learning, college teaching and learning, online and distance learning, global and higher education, leadership for student success, enrollment management and institutional marketing, and the general program.
Up to 15 credits can be transferred from another institution.
Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
50. West Virginia University
West Virginia University’s Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree may be a good choice for students who are interested in moving into faculty positions or administrative or leadership positions at post-secondary institutions.
The curriculum can be personalized to fit students’ career goals and needs, and the school does not charge out-of-state tuition.
West Virginia University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Online Masters in Higher Education Programs
In most cases, the master’s in higher education is a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree with emphasis on practice in the field of postsecondary administration, leadership, and student affairs.
Some institutions offer a Master of Arts (M.A.) in postsecondary education. These degrees provide a bit more flexibility in the choice of courses and sometimes focus on leadership.
Still other master’s in higher education degree programs culminate in the Master of Science (M.S.) degree. These programs usually focus on research in postsecondary education.
A master’s in higher education online can allow you to explore many facets of postsecondary education. Courses in this master’s degree program cover topics such as educational law and ethics, finance in higher education, technology in education, research in education, and student affairs.
Basically, the degree is a master’s in education with postsecondary education as the area of specialization. With an online master’s in higher education and student affairs, you can prepare to step into administrative roles in colleges or universities.
In most cases, the master’s degree is required for a job as a higher education administrator. These jobs include Registrar, Director of Admissions, Director of Student Affairs, Director of Financial Aid, Director of Student Housing, and more.
An online master’s degree in higher education and student affairs can help you to advance your education and prepare for a higher-income job while you’re working in your current career. Many classes in online programs are asynchronous, which means that you can log on at any time and complete your coursework when it’s convenient for you.
If you decide to start working on a master’s in higher education online, you’ll want to shop around for the best university and best master’s degree program to suit your needs and interests.
Be sure to look for a university that is regionally accredited and an online education degree program that is professionally accredited. This will make a difference in your ability to pursue a new career in higher education.
Higher Education Careers & Salaries
Colleges and universities are large institutions with numerous administrative departments and layers of service and documentation that enable their students to earn degrees. Working in higher education administration, you can have a positive impact on students’ ability to succeed in their chosen educational pathways.
You might want to work in a managerial position as director of an administrative department. These include Admissions, Student Affairs, Student Financial Aid, Registrar’s Office, Academic Affairs, Human Resources, Public Relations and Marketing, Fundraising and Alumni Affairs, or other departments.
On the other hand, you might want to work more directly with students. While the master’s in higher education is not a degree that focuses on teaching, there may be some postsecondary teaching opportunities available with this degree.
After completing master’s in higher education online programs, you might want to work directly with college students as an Admissions Counselor or Academic Advisor. These jobs can put you in the position to help students navigate the requirements of earning their degrees.
As a counselor or advisor, you can help students to develop study and research skills that will aid in their academic work.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth in postsecondary administration is projected to grow by an average of 4% over the next 10 years. Job openings are expected to occur in a variety of administrative positions in colleges, universities, junior colleges, and community colleges.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the following median annual salaries for careers in higher education.
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| University President | $155,230 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Manager | $118,430 |
| State College Academic Dean | $102,790 |
| Dean of Student Affairs in Universities | $100,060 |
| Director of Financial Aid | $97,500 |
| Junior College Registrar | $90,470 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $80,790 |
| Instructional Coordinator | $66,970 |
| Primary Education Professor | $65,440 |
| School and Career Counselor | $58,120 |
Of course, salaries vary from one institution to another. Salary ranges depend on the size of the institution, its location, whether the institution is public or private, and funding considerations.
Choosing an Online Masters in Higher Education
Choosing a degree program is a serious decision involving a number of considerations, especially for higher-level programs like masters programs or even doctoral programs in higher education. Of course, the choice is individual, and you should make the decision based on what is right for you.
Here are some things to think about as you search for the master’s in higher education online that is best for you.
- Accredited university with a good reputation
- Accredited degree program
- Faculty credentials and reputation
- Tuition and fees
- Scholarships and student financial aid
You may also be interested in specialized training or research. If so, these considerations may be important to you.
- Opportunity to focus on a special area (Examples: student affairs or leadership)
- Opportunities for practicum or internship experiences
- Thesis requirements and opportunities for research
Working on your degree online can allow you the flexibility to maintain a job and family responsibilities while you’re in graduate school. The online environment is an additional area for consideration.
- Ease of navigation for online course materials
- Online communication and interaction with faculty and peers
- Technical support
- Available databases for online research
- Synchronous or asynchronous classes
The online environment is an additional area for consideration.
Masters in Higher Education Curriculum & Courses
As you pursue an online master’s degree in higher education and student affairs, you can expect to complete courses that focus on higher education administration and postsecondary student support.
Here is an overview of ten courses that might be included in your master’s degree program.
- Research in Education. Learn to use data in the development of policies to improve student outcomes.
- Higher Education Law and Ethics. Explore the legal issues that affect administration and operation of postsecondary educational institutions.
- Student Affairs. Develop skills and competencies to address contemporary issues in the administration of student affairs.
- Higher Education Administration. Explore the organization, management, and philosophy of higher education in the U.S.
- History of Higher Education. Understand the foundations and evolution of higher education in America.
- Instructional Strategies for Adult Learners. Learn best practices for motivating and coaching adult learners—focusing on learning communities.
- Assessment and Evaluation of Higher Education Programs. Learn to use qualitative and quantitative assessment methods for improving academic programs and student outcomes.
- Selected Topics in Higher Education. Explore current issues that affect higher education in a global environment.
- Theories of Student Development. Understand student development as it pertains to student life in the higher education setting.
- School Culture and Diversity. Investigate methods for supporting student achievement through an understanding of culture and diversity.
In addition to coursework, most master’s degree programs include a capstone experience, such as a practicum or written thesis.
Admissions Requirements
To enroll in a degree program for a master’s in higher education online, you’ll need to meet admission requirements set forth by the university and its education department. These may include the following:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum GPA in your bachelor’s degree program
- Some (but not all) universities require minimum scores on GRE or GMAT tests
- Work experience in higher education
- Letters of recommendation
While you definitely need to hold an earned bachelor’s degree with minimum GPA, it does not need to be a bachelor’s in education. Many graduate programs will admit promising students with bachelor’s degrees in a variety of subject areas.
In the past, most graduate degree programs required applicants to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Currently, many universities have eliminated this requirement.
Check admissions requirements for the graduate schools that interest you to see if you need to submit test scores.
Accreditation
Before investing in any degree program such as an online master’s degree in higher education and student affairs, you will want to ensure that the degree is from a regionally accredited institution. The university should be accredited by one of the following organizations.
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
For a future job search, you’ll want to show that your master’s degree is from an accredited institution.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The cost of tuition and fees will be a major factor in your decision to earn a master’s in higher education online. Graduate school is expensive, but it is likely that you’ll qualify for higher-paying jobs after earning the degree.
You might qualify for financial aid, grants, and scholarships to assist in financing your master’s degree. The first step will be to complete and submit your FAFSA form, available through the Federal Student Aid office of the U.S. Department of Education.
Many universities offer need-based and merit-based grants and scholarships. Work-study programs such as teaching assistantships are sometimes available to graduate students. Philanthropic and alumni organizations offer scholarships at some universities. Additionally, if you’re a veteran or member of a military family, you may qualify for financial assistance.
To investigate your opportunities for financial assistance, contact the financial aid department of the university where you plan to enroll for graduate school.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Higher Education?
A master’s in higher education can help prepare you for jobs in leadership, administration, operations management, and student affairs in postsecondary educational institutions. In most cases, it is not a degree that qualifies to be a college professor. Professors typically hold doctoral degrees in their specific fields of study.
With a master’s in higher education, you might work in an administrative office as a registrar or director of admissions, financial aid, or student affairs. On the other hand, you might work as an academic advisor or counselor, helping to ensure students’ success as they move through their degree programs.
How Much Does an Online Masters in Higher Education Program Cost?
Before you make a decision about applying for grad school, you’ll want to estimate the cost. Keep in mind that tuition for graduate credit hours is higher than it is for undergraduate credits.
A quick comparison of five leading universities reveals a low-end graduate tuition rate of $163 per credit hour for in-state residents and $589 for non-residents. On the high end of the scale, you might find a graduate tuition rate of $512 for in-state residents and $1,256 for non-residents.
As you calculate costs, keep fees in mind, too. Because you plan to pursue a master’s in higher education online, you might look for schools that waive most of their on-campus fees.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Online Masters in Higher Education Degree?
The length of time it will take to complete the masters’ in higher education and student affairs / administration is up to the individual. It varies from one person to another. Most graduate degree programs consist of 28-36 credit hours. If you are able to enroll full-time, you should be able to complete the degree in one to two years. Or, if you enroll in a 1 year online masters in education program, then you can accelerate your degree in only one year.
Much will depend on your circumstances regarding work and family responsibilities. It may not be possible for you to enroll full-time every semester. Additionally, there may be a difference between universities that offer year-round courses and those that offer courses only two semesters out of the year.
Are There Any Affordable Online Masters in Higher Education Programs?
Yes, there are affordable master’s in higher education degree programs that are offered online. To save money, you may want to investigate the universities in the state where you live. You’ll pay in-state tuition, for a substantial savings.
Some universities offer graduate tuition at a rate of $150 to $300 for in-state residents. These rates are comparatively low. Some universities also offer special e-tuition rates for online students, regardless of their state of residence.
When you’re calculating costs for your online masters in education administration, be sure to also look into the cost of fees, books, and software or other materials.
What is a Masters in Higher Education Degree?
A master’s in higher education is an education degree with postsecondary (college or university) education as the focus track. It is not a teacher-training degree, such as what you might pursue for teaching in the K-12 area of education.
The master’s in higher education focuses on leadership, administration, and student affairs in postsecondary education settings (public or private). It prepares you to step into many administrative positions that are crucial to the smooth operation of institutions of higher learning.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Masters in Higher Education?
A typical career for someone with a master’s in higher education is an administrative job in a college or university. These jobs include Director of Admissions, Admissions Counselor, Registrar, Academic Advisor, Director of Student Affairs, Director of Student Housing, and more.
The master’s degree is considered the entry-level degree required for supervisory or managerial positions in postsecondary education administration. With the degree, you can enter this field and work your way up to higher-paying jobs with greater responsibilities.
Is a Masters in Higher Education Degree Worth it?
Yes, a master’s degree in higher education is worth it for many students. Employment is projected to grow 5% for the next ten years in the education, training, and library field, faster than the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Common higher education careers in this field include Registrar, Admissions Counselor, Director of Student Affairs, Provost/Academic Dean, and Director of Admissions.
You may want to consider that the master’s degree is a stepping-stone on the way toward a doctoral degree. With an Ed.D. in higher education, you might qualify for positions of greater authority and higher earning potential in the postsecondary education field.
Getting Your Masters in Higher Education Online
The intellectually stimulating world of higher education is an exciting place to work. New ideas and pathways to the future are often born in the academic environments of colleges and universities. With opportunities to earn a master’s in higher education administration online, you can open up possibilities for your future career.
As a motivated self-starter, the flexibility of an online environment might be just right for you. Online learning can allow you to continue living in your current home and juggle the responsibilities of work and family while you’re in grad school. Best wishes for success in your new educational journey!
