Higher Education Administration, MPS

Mission Statement

The Master of Professional Studies in Higher Education Administration strengthens opportunities for those who have chosen careers in higher education administration by providing them with the historical context; theoretical underpinnings; and practical, applied knowledge that they need to move into positions of increasing responsibility, creativity, and impact in higher education.  

Modality

On Campus or Online

Learning Goals

Students who complete the MPS Higher Education Administration program will be able to:

  1. Apply creative and analytical skills in formulating evidence- based recommendations and solutions to higher education administrative challenges.
  2. Apply knowledge of higher education systems, policies, and practices and work effectively with diverse actors in the United States and across global contexts.
  3. Develop an ethical framework to guide decision-making that advances social justice in higher education.
  4. Integrate higher education theory and research with administrative practices and processes to develop and execute solutions to complex problems.
  5. Analyze and interpret data and trends for assessment, planning, and decision making in higher education.
  6. Creatively use relevant technological tools to address challenges and opportunities within higher education.
  7. Synthesize the needs and perspectives of diverse stakeholders to communicate complex ideas and solutions across internal and external audiences.

Focus Areas

The Higher Education Administration program offers three focus areas that enable students to tailor their studies and sharpen their expertise in a particular area of study:

Administration

Students will gain an understanding in the governance, structure, and management across different types of higher education institutions.

Student Affairs

Students will gain an understanding of the profession of student affairs and how it supports the mission of different types of higher education institutions. 

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Students will gain an understanding of issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion across higher education institutions.

Students can design their own focus area by registering for a variety of elective courses offered within the program and across the School of Continuing Studies, with written program approval.

Licensure Disclosure

This program does not provide any professional licensure or certification, nor is it intended to prepare students to sit for any specific professional licensing or certification exam(s). Though not required, students in these programs may wish to research and seek certifications through professional organizations in their field.