Master's in higher education programs prepare graduates for administrative roles in colleges and universities.
Learners gain the skills and knowledge needed to make important decisions, manage budgets, and handle staffing needs.
Graduates enjoy strong job prospects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for postsecondary education administrators to grow 7% between 2018 and 2028 -- faster than the national average for all occupations. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $94,340 in 2018, with the top 10% of earners making more than $190,600 during the same timeframe.
This guide ranks the top online master's in higher education programs. We also cover important information for prospective students, such as common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
Top 10 Online Master's in Higher Education Programs 2020
Boston University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
About this school
Founded in 1839, Boston University serves more than 15,000 graduate students annually. BU's online master's in higher education administration offers part-time enrollment and uses a fully online delivery method. The program takes about two years to complete and offers coursework both synchronously and asynchronously. Courses take seven weeks to complete, with the typical student taking two seven-week classes per 14-week semester.
The program's 36-credit curriculum covers student affairs, governance and decision-making, campus ecology, and student development. Required courses include perspectives on higher education, diversity and justice in education, student affairs, and innovations in higher education. Students can enroll at the start of the fall, spring, or summer semesters.
To earn admission to BU's online master's in education program, prospective students must submit an online application along with a statement of qualifications and objectives, an equity and inclusion statement, and a resume. They must also provide two letters of recommendation.
The statement of qualifications should be approximately two double-spaced pages. The required equity and inclusion statement gives applicants an opportunity to reflect on the program's dedication to equity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Prospective students do not need to submit standardized test scores.
Georgetown University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Located in Washington D.C., Georgetown University was founded in 1789 as the first Catholic and Jesuit higher education institution in the United States. The university now offers a master's in higher education administration that learners can complete online, in person, or through a combination of both.
The program focuses on ethics and social inequities within educational systems. Graduates can begin careers in university operations, student affairs, or admissions.
The 33-credit curriculum includes courses in American and global higher education, organization and administration, and student affairs. All students complete an administration or student affairs concentration, and the curriculum culminates in a capstone course.
Applicants must submit a resume, a statement of purpose, and two letters of recommendation. Students pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency. Georgetown's School of Continuing Studies offers both service-based and employer-based scholarships. The school also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, offering financial benefits to U.S. veterans.
Michigan State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
One of the nation's leading research universities, Michigan State University serves more than 50,000 learners annually through more than 200 on-campus programs and 130 online degrees.
MSU's master's in higher, adult, and lifelong education primarily serves practicing educators. The program's 30-credit curriculum requires two core courses: inquiry in postsecondary education and a seminar in adult and higher education. Students complete the remaining credits through electives like leadership and organization development, adult learning, and concept of a learning society. The curriculum culminates in a final portfolio project.
Applicants must submit a resume, letters of reference, a personal statement, and official transcripts. Full-time students typically complete the program in two years.
The University of Rochester is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Established in 1850, Rochester is a private university that serves more than 12,000 students annually. Regarded as one of the preeminent research universities in the country, Rochester offers more than 200 degrees, including an online master's program in higher education.
This 36-credit MS in educational administration offers three concentrations: higher education administration, student affairs administration, and academic and career advising. Core courses include master's research methods, college access and (in)equity, higher education law, and history of higher education. The curriculum also includes an internship and requires a master's thesis.
Part-time students complete the program in two years. Rochester delivers program coursework asynchronously through Blackboard.
Louisiana State University and A&M College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
With a main campus in Baton Rouge and satellite campuses spanning the state, Louisiana State University and A&M College serves approximately 31,000 students every year. LSU offers 10 programs through distance learning, including an online master's in education with a concentration in higher education administration.
LSU's 36-credit higher education program covers topics like Greek life affairs and alumni relations. The curriculum prepares graduates to effectively navigate administrative and academic challenges. Required courses include understanding and applying research in higher education, issues of race and gender, leadership in higher education, and strategic planning and finance. Rather than completing a comprehensive exam prior to graduating, learners can build a professional portfolio of their best work.
The program does not include any in-person requirements. Students typically earn their degrees in 18-24 months, completing the 12 required courses during seven-week terms. Admission requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.
The University of Houston is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1927, the University of Houston is now the third-largest university in Texas. Through its 14 colleges, UH offers more than 280 degrees to its 45,000 students annually. To expand access to academic opportunities, UH also provides 27 online graduate programs and more than 1,250 online courses.
UH's master's in higher education offers both on-campus and fully online delivery methods. Online students participate in a cohort model that allows them to complete the degree in six consecutive semesters. Students enroll in two classes per semester.
The 36-credit curriculum includes courses such as cultural foundations of American education and leadership and administration of higher education. In addition to an internship and required coursework, learners complete either a thesis or a comprehensive exam. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously through Blackboard.
Prospective students must submit GRE scores. Texas residents receive a tuition discount.
The University of Nebraska Lincoln is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
As the flagship school in the University of Nebraska system, the Lincoln campus serves over 25,000 students annually. The university offers 25 online undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an online master's in higher education.
UNL's higher education program primarily serves working professionals looking to bolster their knowledge and advance their careers within colleges or universities. Part-time students finish the degree in about two years, tackling courses such as administrative theory, higher education in America, finance in higher education, and college student development. All learners must pass a comprehensive examination before graduating.
Applicants must be currently employed at a college or university and hold a bachelor's degree. Before enrolling, prospective students can participate in an online orientation.
The University of Mississippi is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
The University of Mississippi is Mississippi's flagship public institution of higher education. The university serves over 20,000 students annually and offers several programs through distance learning.
Ole Miss's fully online master's in higher education takes two years to complete. The program's 36-credit curriculum includes two foundational classes in cultural context of education and education research. Learners also complete core courses in higher education history, law, and finance, along with a practicum in student personnel services.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants with a GPA of 2.7 may earn conditional admission. Prospective students must submit official transcripts, references, a resume, and GRE scores. All learners pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
Drexel University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Established in 1891, Drexel University is a private research institution located in Philadelphia. Drexel serves more than 26,000 students in over 70 undergraduate programs and 100 graduate and professional programs annually. Drexel launched its first distance learning program in 1996 and now offers more than 100 fully accredited online degrees and certificates.
Drexel's MS in higher education offers a rigorous curriculum designed to provide graduates with the leadership, administrative, and management skills necessary to excel in the field. The 45-credit curriculum includes core courses in foundations of higher education, student development, and managing campus operations.
All students complete one of five concentrations: education policy, enrollment management, global and international education, learning technologies, or student development and affairs. As a culminating experience, learners complete a lesson study, thesis, or practitioner capstone.
Program applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Applicants with a 2.8 GPA can earn provisional admission. Prospective students must submit official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a short personal statement. Drexel offers tuition discounts for alumni and military members.
DePaul University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Established in 1898, DePaul University is a private, Roman Catholic university. DePaul offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 23,000 students each year. As a result of the university's dedication to diversity, students of color make up nearly 33% of DePaul's population.
Offered both online and on campus, DePaul's MA or M.Ed. in educational leadership requires 30 months to complete. Graduates learn to meet the needs of diverse students.
Both the MA and M.Ed. require 48 quarter credits and include courses like introduction to research, curriculum design, creating and sustaining professional learning communities, and effective leadership of schools. All students also complete a one-year internship. MA students must write a thesis, while M.Ed. learners must complete a capstone project.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and must submit transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement of at least 750 words. DePaul's higher education program accepts new learners for the fall, winter, spring, and summer quarters.
Loyola University of Chicago is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Loyola University of Chicago is a private, Catholic research university founded by the Jesuits in 1870. Through 11 colleges and schools, Loyola offers over 300 undergraduate degrees and graduate or professional programs. Loyola maintains campuses across the Chicago metropolitan area, plus a campus in Rome and programs in China and Vietnam.
Loyola's M.Ed. in international higher education takes two years to complete. The 36-credit curriculum includes required courses like introduction to educational policy analysis, leadership in higher education, globalization and education, and international higher education. Students also take part in two blended courses located on Loyola's international campuses; they spend two weeks in Rome and one week in Ho Chi Minh City.
The program also requires learners to engage in an international education internship and culminates in a portfolio-based capstone course. Distance learners enter the program as part of a cohort.
Program applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Prospective students must also submit three letters of recommendation and a short statement explaining their personal and professional goals in international higher education.
West Virginia University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Established in 1867, West Virginina University serves approximately 30,000 students through more than 350 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs annually. WVU has hosted 25 Rhodes Scholars and 64 Fulbright Scholars.
Offered fully online, WVU's MA in higher education administration prepares graduates for faculty and administrative roles within universities, colleges, and external educational fields. The 30-credit curriculum requires four core classes: history of American higher education, contemporary issues, administration, and college student development.
All learners must complete a capstone project that includes an internship and an academic portfolio. The program delivers coursework both synchronously and asynchronously.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Prospective students must submit a resume, three references, and an academic writing sample. All students in the program pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
The University of North Texas is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Based in Denton, the University of North Texas also operates campuses in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Frisco. Founded in 1890, UNT now serves almost 40,000 students annually and offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degrees.
UNT offers an M.Ed. in higher education that has no in-person requirements. The program prepares graduates for entry- and mid-level management roles in student life, alumni offices, financial aid, and business development. Requiring 36 credits, the curriculum includes four areas: higher education core courses, research, an internship, and a specialization.
Core courses include student demographics, cultural pluralism in higher education, history and philosophy of higher education, and organization and administration. The required internship accounts for six credits and spans two semesters. The remainder of the curriculum consists of electives such as foundations of student development and community college leadership. Students must complete the degree within five years.
Admission requires GMAT or GRE scores. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose. Prospective students who earn an undergraduate GPA of 3.3 or higher do not need to submit standardized test scores.
The University of Wyoming is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
Founded in 1886, the University of Wyoming offers over 120 programs, including 40 online degrees and certificates. Through asynchronous and synchronous delivery, UW provides myriad flexible opportunities to learners across the nation.
UW's fully online master's in higher education administration prepares graduates for careers in both nonprofit and for-profit universities. The program's 33-credit curriculum provides coursework through Blackboard and video conferencing platforms. Required courses include introduction to research, higher education systems, workforce training, and community college leadership. All students also complete a capstone project.
Prospective students must submit a personal statement, a current resume, and three letters of recommendation. UW charges all distance learners the same tuition regardless of residency.
The University of Louisville is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Established in 1798, The University of Louisville is located in the heart of Kentucky's largest city, Louisville. UofL serves over 22,000 students annually and operates a hospital and three campuses. UofL offers more than 200 programs, including 24 fully online degrees and certificates.
Designed for both current university professionals and those looking to break into the higher education field, UofL's online master's in higher education administration offers students the chance to grow their knowledge and gain the tools needed to pursue careers in higher education. This 36-credit, fully online master's degree accepts both full- and part-time learners and delivers all coursework asynchronously through Blackboard.
The program offers the following concentrations: administration, teaching and learning, policy and equity, and sports administration. Core courses include introduction to research methods, college students in the United States, legal issues, and diversity in higher education. All students must also complete a 100-hour internship.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation, a professional goals statement, and a current resume. The university's higher education program does not require GRE scores for admission.
Texas Tech University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Founded in 1923, Texas Tech University now serves over 38,000 students annually through over 300 programs, including several online degrees.
TTU's online master's in higher education administration delivers coursework both synchronously and asynchronously through Blackboard. Students enter the program as part of a cohort and usually need two years to earn their degrees. The program's 36-credit curriculum covers higher education research design, history of higher education, access and equity, and legal aspects and crisis management. All students also complete a 150-hour, supervised internship and a capstone project.
Prospective students must submit a resume, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and responses to four writing prompts. GRE scores are not required for admission.
Hofstra University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Established in 1935 in Hempstead, New York, Hofstra University is now the largest private institution on Long Island, serving approximately 10,000 students annually. Hofstra offers more than 160 undergraduate and 170 graduate academic programs, including a fully online master's in higher education leadership and policy studies.
Using an interdisciplinary approach, this degree explores the foundational and policy challenges within higher education and provides students with the educational and leadership skills needed to pursue administrative roles. The program offers online, on-campus, and blended delivery methods.
The 36-credit curriculum includes a required leadership concentration that covers economics and finance; governance in higher education; legal, ethical, and contemporary issues; and student affairs. Learners also complete elective courses and a culminating independent study project.
Prospective students must submit three letters of recommendation, a detailed resume, and a comprehensive personal statement outlining professional goals and objectives. All applicants must have a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee serves approximately 26,000 students annually and offers more than 190 degrees. As Wisconsin's most diverse university, UWM provides an internationally recognized faculty, small classes, and a dedication to expanding access to dynamic careers.
Offered fully online or through a hybrid delivery method, UWM's MS in administrative leadership with a concentration in higher education provides students with the leadership and professional skills needed to advance in the field. The 33-credit curriculum includes courses on organization and governance, strategic planning, and students in the collegiate context.
Through UWM's Two-in-One initiative, students can also complete certificates in teaching and learning in higher education, support services for online students, or health professional education while earning the higher education degree.
UWM accepts applications on a rolling basis. Prospective students must submit a comprehensive personal statement outlining professional goals and objectives. Admission does not require standardized test scores.
FIU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
About this school
Based in Miami, Florida International University is the largest university in South Florida. Serving close to 60,000 students every year, FIU offers more than 190 programs, including more than 40 online undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Through its online master's in higher education administration, FIU prepares graduates for careers at universities, colleges, and associated nonprofit and for-profit institutions. The program combines theoretical coursework with professional application. The curriculum includes courses on the history of higher education, college student development theory, and foundations of educational research, culminating in a practicum in higher education administration.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and must submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and an essay describing professional goals. The program does not require GRE scores for admission.
The University of South Dakota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
About this school
The state's oldest public university, the University of South Dakota was established by the Dakota Territory legislature in 1862. USD now offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degrees, including several distance learning programs.
USD offers an online master's in educational administration and leadership with a concentration in adult and higher education. The program offers both thesis and non-thesis academic tracks. Major coursework includes adult learning theories, social justice and cultural issues, principles of postsecondary education, and organization and administration in higher education. The degree culminates in either a thesis or additional coursework.
Prospective students must submit official transcripts, three professional letters of recommendation, a resume, and an essay. All students in the program pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
Messiah is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Originally founded in 1909 as Messiah Bible School, Messiah is a private Christian college located just west of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Messiah now serves more than 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Messiah offers a fully online master's in higher education. Serving both working professionals and interested students, the program takes a faith-based approach to forging the leadership and administrative skills needed for career advancement in higher education.
The program offers five concentrations: academic support, college athletics leadership, strategic leadership, student affairs, and an individualized concentration. The 36-credit curriculum includes core courses in foundations of higher education, equity issues, strategic leadership, and legal and ethical issues in higher education. Students also complete a 120-hour internship.
Applicants must submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose, a resume, and one professional letter of recommendation. Messiah prefers applicants with a cumulative GPA of 3.0, but students who do not meet that threshold may receive conditional admission.
Stony Brook is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Located 60 miles east of New York City on Long Island, Stony Brook serves nearly 26,000 students. Founded in 1957 as part of the State University of New York System, Stony Brook now offers 64 majors through 13 academic schools and colleges.
Offering both a 36-credit master's degree and an 18-credit advanced graduate certificate, Stony Brook's online higher education administration programs provide students with the academic preparation and practical application needed to become leaders in the field. Students complete coursework asynchronously and can enroll part time or full time, with full-time students graduating in 16 months.
Core courses include foundations of higher education administration, leadership, research and assessment, and diversity in higher education. Elective options include technology in higher education, advising and counseling, enrollment management, and community college administration. Learners also have the chance to study abroad in Italy or China.
Students without at least one year of professional experience in the field are required to complete a 150-hour unpaid internship. Working alongside an approved academic supervisor, each student obtains valuable hands-on experience in a higher education setting.
Applicants must submit a personal statement, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. Stony Brook prefers applicants with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. The university's higher education program does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores.
USM is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC).
About this school
Established in 1910, USM is a public research institution located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. With an enrollment of over 14,000 students, USM offers nearly 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Among these myriad offerings are more than 50 online undergraduate and graduate programs.
USM offers an online master's and an online doctorate in higher education administration. Both programs prepare graduates with the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to address challenges in higher education by integrating practical field experience and academic coursework.
USM's master's in higher education with an emphasis in student affairs administration is a fully online, 36-credit degree. Required courses include administration in student affairs, foundations of student affairs, social justice in higher education, and student development theory and research. The degree culminates in a comprehensive exam.
Prospective students must submit GRE scores, a statement of purpose, a resume, and three letters of recommendation. The program admits new students each fall term.
Appalachian is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC).
About this school
Established in 1899, Appalachian joined the University of North Carolina System in 1971. The university serves more than 19,000 students through over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this public university also offers programs at off-campus centers in Hickory, Morganton, and Lenoir and online.
Appalachian offers an online higher education master's program that prepares graduates for career advancement in a variety of institutions, foundations, agencies, and organizations. The curriculum offers concentrations in community college/university leadership and developmental education. Both concentrations feature core courses like adult development and learning theories, college and university teaching, American higher education, and research methods.
Students may choose a thesis or non-thesis track. All learners must complete a comprehensive written exam. The program delivers coursework both synchronously and asynchronously using the ASULearn platform and Zoom.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Prospective students must submit GRE or MAT scores, a resume, statement of intent, and three letters of recommendation. The program accepts new students for the fall semester.
RMU is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
About this school
Located 12 miles outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, RMU serves about 5,000 learners. Established in 1921, RMU now offers over 80 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, including several online degrees.
RMU offers an online master's in higher education that focuses on providing students with the professional skills and competencies needed to expand career opportunities in higher education. Designed for both working professionals and those interested in the field, this management-focused program prepares graduates for leadership roles in admissions departments and business operations.
The program's 30-credit curriculum includes courses such as critical issues affecting American education, instructional leadership, college students in America, and foundations of online teaching and learning. The program culminates in a practicum in higher education. RMU supports distance learners through 24-hour technical support, financial aid counseling, a wellness counselor, and a dedicated career advisor.
Applicants must provide letters of reference and GMAT or GRE scores. RMU accepts applications on a rolling basis
School Type
Private Nonprofit
Graduation Rate
64%
Percent Receiving Loans
78%
Online Enrollment
46%
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End of list, bravo!
Ranking Methodology
Online Master's in Higher Education Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Methodology for College Rankings
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
Considers range of electives within that discipline
Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
Considers education background of the faculty
Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
Faculty
Curriculum
“Freshness” of academic knowledge
Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
Considers the following of the online classes:
Types of online technology used to deliver content
Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
Considers the following of instructors:
Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
Ratio to number of students in a class
Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
Accreditation
Public or private status
Acceptance rate
Retention rate
Graduation rate
ACT/SAT requirements
Cost in-state / out of state
Undergrad, grad, or both offered
Region
State
City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
Choosing an Online Master's in Higher Education Program
When researching prospective master's in higher education programs, students should consider factors like cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important considerations for students below.
Program Cost: Public schools typically cost less than private schools, and in-state students often pay less than out-of-state students. However, some programs allow all online students to pay in-state tuition rates regardless of residency.
Transfer Policies: Many schools offer transfer credit for things like prior academic work, professional experience, and military training. Schools with generous transfer policies can help students with relevant prior experience save time and money on a degree.
School Size and Type: A school's size and type affects the learning experience. For example, small schools may offer more individualized attention from faculty than larger schools, but larger schools may have more program and class options.
Program Length: Learners who follow a traditional path typically graduate with a master's in higher education in two years. However, some programs offer accelerated timelines.
On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs still have on-campus requirements. Students should ensure they can meet these requirements before committing to a program.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Many programs require a thesis or internship, both of which require a significant time investment. Students should choose a program that has requirements aligned with their career goals.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Higher Education Program?
An online master's in higher education administration program gives students knowledge and skills that translate to a variety of administrative and academic careers. Many programs offer electives that allow students to specialize their skills and tailor the degree to their goals. The following section covers several common courses found in master's in higher education programs.
Online Master's in Higher Education Curriculum
History of Higher Education
Typically taken in the first semester, this foundational course explores how higher education has evolved throughout history. Learners consider how higher education administration has shifted over time and examine current trends and issues affecting the field.
Higher Education Laws and Regulations
This course examines the legal structures and regulations underpinning postsecondary education in the United States. Learners study federal regulations that affect funding, student enrollment, and accessibility. They also examine how nonprofit status affects organizational governance.
Financial Management in Higher Education
Students in this class gain the skills needed to manage higher education budgets. They learn how to manage state appropriations, work with fundraising departments, and follow best practices in financial management and employee compensation.
Curriculum Design
This course teaches students how to design and implement college-level curricula. Students also review various methodologies used in curriculum design and course development, with an emphasis on best practices in teaching and learning.
Higher Education Careers
Graduates with an online master's in higher education qualify for a variety of fulfilling careers. The following list outlines several common careers for graduates of higher education master's programs; however, some roles may require additional education or certification.
Students who want to learn more about education degrees can review detailed information through The Best Schools' guide.
Postsecondary Education Administrators
These professionals oversee the administrative aspects of a postsecondary institution. They may work in departments like admissions or student services, overseeing staff, managing daily operations, and setting short- and long-term goals.
Postsecondary education administrators need at least a master's degree, though provosts and deans may need a doctorate. They must know how to effectively interact with diverse groups of people, solve problems, and motivate staff.
Public relations managers help craft and maintain a college or university's public image. These professionals designate spokespeople for media inquiries, train staff on how to present information to the public, and write press releases about new initiatives.
Public relations managers need at least a bachelor's degree, though some advanced roles may require a master's degree. These professionals must remain calm under pressure and understand how to create messaging campaigns that appeal to a wide audience.
Survey researchers in higher education collect student, alumni, and staff data to help improve a college or university. They may collect information like employee fulfillment, salary expectations, and career goals. They may also ask students how they feel about their professors, classes, extracurricular activities, and overall experience.
Survey researchers need at least a bachelor's degree, but some positions require an advanced degree. These professionals need advanced training in statistical analysis and raw data management and the ability to manage long-term projects to completion.
College professors instruct students at postsecondary institutions. They deliver class lectures, create assignments and examinations, advise students, and grade papers. These professionals may also conduct and publish their own research.
College professors typically need a doctorate, though some institutions may accept a master's degree. They need strong time-management, communication, presentation, and research skills.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Higher Education Degree Programs
When researching prospective online master's in higher education programs, students should check accreditation status. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and academic rigor. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and credits from accredited institutions.
Schools may hold regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. For example, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission accredit master's in higher education programs.
Master's in higher education students and professionals can take advantage of professional organizations to enhance their careers. The following organizations offer benefits such as professional development, continuing education, and networking opportunities.
AACRAO supports higher education professionals working in student records and admissions. The organization hosts annual events and training programs, industry resources, in-house research and publications, and advocacy efforts. Members can also search for open jobs and receive career advice.
NASPA brings together student affairs administrators to provide opportunities for shared learning and professional support. Members can access national conferences and institutes, regional and community events, focus area research and resources, and regional community groups.
CASE is a global member association focused on supporting higher education professionals in alumni relations, development and marketing, communications, and student advancement. The group provides conferences and training workshops, industry resources, annual awards, and career information. It also organizes regional and district chapters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can You Do With a Master's in Higher Education?
Graduates with a master's in higher education qualify for administrative positions in postsecondary institutions. They may oversee departments like student affairs, admissions, or student programming.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's in Higher Education?
It typically takes two years of full-time study to earn a master's degree in higher education, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.
How Much Do Higher Education Administrators Make?
Postsecondary education administrators earned a median annual salary of $94,340 in 2018. However, salary varies with factors like location, institution, and experience.
What Is a Degree in Higher Education?
A master's degree in higher education is a professional program that prepares students for administrative roles in postsecondary institutions.
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