Program Overview

Higher Education and Student Affairs, M.Ed.

College of Education

Learn to effectively blend theory, research and best practices from coursework and supervised experiences to become a transformational leader in 21st-century higher education.

Our renowned higher education and student affairs master’s program has a 50-year history of preparing entry and mid-level professionals for successful administrative careers in colleges and universities. Students have the unique opportunity to apply for serving as co-instructors for a section of the award-winning University 101 program. On campus and fully online tracks are available.

Program Highlights

• An Exceptional Faculty

Learn from a faculty that includes full-time and affiliate members who are practicing administrators.

• Strong Partnerships

Work with top leaders through graduate assistantships, internships and college-supervised learning experiences.

• Program Flexibility

Choose from on campus or fully online tracks that allow you to tailor your education to your life and schedule.

• Professional Competencies

Graduate with professional competencies that align with the ACPA/NASPA.

What You’ll Study

Courses emphasize topics related to the philosophy of higher education and student affairs, with an emphasis on social justice, student development and institutional administration. Learn to apply theory to practice, including conditions that facilitate student learning within contemporary trends and contexts. Engage in learning opportunities that advance your goals.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Collaboration

Working with others to achieve a common goal or objective

• Cultural Awareness

Learning about and respecting diverse cultures and beliefs

• Interpersonal Skills

Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations

• Leadership

Inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals and reach their full potential

• Presentation Skills

Preparing and delivering effective and engaging presentations to inform, persuade or inspire

• Problem Solving

Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

• Educational Leader

Job Titles of Alumni

• Academic Advisor
• Assistant Director for Residence Life
• Executive Director
• Instructor
• Recruiter
• Assistant Dean of Admissions

Average Alumni Salary

Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $79,070

Workplace Settings

• Education
• Information Technology
• Health Care
• Finance
• Nonprofits

Employers of Alumni

• University of South Carolina
• Midlands Technical College
• Greenville Technical College
• Capital One
• Spartanburg Community College
• University of Delaware

Related Degrees

• Specialist
  • Education Administration, Ed.S. College of Education
• Doctorate
  • Music Education, Ph.D. School of Music
  • Teaching and Learning, Ph.D. College of Education
  • Music Performance: Music, D.M.A. School of Music
  • Educational Practice and Innovation, Ed.D. College of Education
  • Anthropology, Ph.D. McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
  • Social Work, Ph.D. College of Social Work
  • Biostatistics, Ph.D. Arnold School of Public Health
  • Counselor Education, Ph.D. College of Education