Colleges and universities depend on professional leadership and management to run smoothly. Deans, administrators, academic advisors, and admissions counselors help complex academic institutions function and grow.
People interested in the administrative side of postsecondary institutions can pursue master's degrees in higher education. These degrees offer a graduate-level focus on student affairs, program development, human resources, course registration, and more.
Additionally, most colleges and universities require a master's in higher education for their leadership positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary educational administrators earned a median salary of $95,410 as of 2019. BLS data also indicates an encouraging projected job outlook of 4% from 2019-2029.
Prospective students interested in earning online master's in higher education degrees can begin their search with our following list of the top schools in the field.
2021's Top 10 Best Online Higher Education Grad Schools
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL |
| 2 | Mississippi College | Clinton, MS |
| 3 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
| 4 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | Natchitoches, LA |
| 5 | Baker University | Baldwin City, KS |
| 6 | University of North Texas | Denton, TX |
| 7 | Southern Arkansas University | Magnolia, AR |
| 8 | University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg, MS |
| 9 | Columbus State University | Columbus, GA |
| 10 | University of West Alabama | Livingston, AL |
Featured Online Programs
Why Get an Online Higher Education Master's?
Postsecondary institutions need leaders, counselors, and administrators to support their educational endeavors and facilitate growth.
Earning a master's degree in higher education prepares students to meet the needs of colleges and universities across the country.
Nearly every postsecondary institution requires professionals to handle its business operations. Schools need experts in administration, human resources, counseling, and program development. Master of education programs prepare graduates to assume those roles. Higher education graduate students develop mastery of management theory and administrative strategies, among other useful skills. The degree leads to many available professional roles.
The BLS projects growth for careers in higher education leadership in the coming years. Their projections indicate that occupations for human resource management and school counseling professionals will grow by 6% and 8%, respectively, from 2019-2029.
Other benefits of a master's in higher education include:
Top 10 Online Master's in Higher Education Schools 2021
The following 10 schools offer the best online master's programs in higher education administration for 2021. To learn more about the methodology we use to rank schools, click on the link below.
What the Best Master's in Education Programs Have in Common
Many of the top schools below share common characteristics, such as accessibility, academic value, and hands-on learning opportunities. Still, each program offers a distinct educational experience.
- They are accredited. Accredited schools hold membership in a federally recognized accrediting agency. The top accrediting bodies are regional, but some schools hold both regional and programmatic accreditation. Prospective higher education students should look for regional accreditation from one of the following agencies:
- 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)
- Their programs are reputable. A master's degree from a reputable institution often carries more weight in the real world than a similar degree from a less-recognized institution. Schools earn their reputations in several ways. For instance, an institution such as the University of North Texas maintains its reputation in part through the size of its student body and alumni association. Other schools may emphasize their job placement rates or faculty research.
- They foster academic excellence. Great schools help students achieve academic success. These institutions set high performance standards and provide resources to help learners meet or exceed those standards. Some schools in our list demonstrate their commitment to fostering academic excellence by earning recognition from an agency in higher education. For instance, Columbus State University aligns its curriculum with the American College Personnel Association Professional Competencies and the Council of the Advancement of Higher Education.
- They are affordable. The best schools work to make sure cost is no barrier for qualified prospective learners. To make their programs affordable, some institutions keep tuition rates low. Others offer substantial financial aid packages. Some public schools, such as Northwestern State University of Louisiana, waive additional fees for nonresidents. When determining affordability, applicants should consider the total cost of a degree, not just tuition per credit.
The Best Master's in Education Programs
1. The University of Alabama
Public university in Tuscaloosa, AL, accredited by SACSCOC
The state's oldest and largest university, UA serves as the flagship campus of Alabama's public university system. The school maintains an enrollment of almost 40,000 students and is well known as home to its football team, the Crimson Tide.
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration
Aspiring leaders in higher education can get started in their careers with UA's 36-credit master's in higher education. The university's broad-based curriculum prepares learners for leadership in specialties such as advancement, financial services, facilities management, distance education, and enrollment management.
One elective and 11 required courses comprise UA's online higher education master's degree. Required courses include perspectives on higher education, the student in higher education, multicultural and diversity issues, and statistical methods. Students choose an elective in grant writing, academic development, or higher education policy.
New enrollees can begin at any one of three entrance dates.
Applying to UA
Applicants need an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credits. Other requirements include a writing sample and a minimum GRE score of 300 or an MAT score in the 50th percentile or higher.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $420/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Delivery Format: 100% online
2. Mississippi College
Private college in Clinton, MS, accredited by SACSCOC
The oldest institution of higher learning in Mississippi, MC began in 1826 and is affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention. The Christian school enrolls more than 5,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in over 130 areas of study.
Master of Higher Education Administration
Current and future professionals in postsecondary education can advance their careers with MC's 31-credit master's in higher education. The program combines coursework with practicums for a rigorous curriculum covering administration, theory, and practice.
MC's degree requires 27 credits of coursework and four credits of practicums. Required courses include finance in higher education, law in higher education, and student development theories.
Enrollees earn credits during fall, spring, and summer terms and take 2-3 courses per term. By learning online and taking practicums at colleges near their homes, students may learn without spending any time on the MC campus.
Applying to MC
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. They must also submit transcripts and a statement of purpose. MC accepts up to six transfer credits for this program.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $670/credit
- Required Credits: 31 credits
- Program Length: 18 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
3. Liberty University
Private university in Lynchburg, VA, accredited by SACSCOC and NCATE
Founded in 1971 by evangelical Christian minister Jerry Falwell, Liberty now enrolls more than 100,000 students, including 30,000 members of the military and 700 international students. The school offers over 700 academic programs.
Master of Education in Higher Education
Liberty's online master's in higher education can equip graduates for a variety of jobs on postsecondary campuses. The curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge in the discipline with spiritual and ethical training for professional integrity.
Students can choose one of two specialization tracks: educational leadership or instructional design and technology. Courses in the leadership track include contemporary issues in educational policy and student support services and retention. Instructional design and technology courses include technology practices for instructional improvement and principles of design and management in distance education. Each course lasts eight weeks. The program concludes with a capstone.
Applying to Liberty
Prospective learners with a bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited school can apply if they hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submit proof of English proficiency.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $415/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1 year
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
4. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Public university in Natchitoches, LA, accredited by SACSCOC
Founded in 1884, NSU has grown in size, diversity, and course offerings during its 137-year history. The school serves students at its main campus, online, and at three regional instructional sites: Shreveport, Alexandria, and Fort Polk.
Master of Arts in Student Affairs in Higher Education
For nearly half a century, NSU has prepared leaders in higher education. Recently the school transitioned from its traditional 48-credit student personnel services program to a fully online 36-credit master's in higher education.
Courses in the program include history of higher education, the American college student, legal and ethical issues, and multicultural and diverse populations. Students also take an internship and two research courses.
Under the direction of their major professor, degree-seekers may choose electives in counseling, adult education, educational technology, health performance, or special education.
The school waives additional tuition costs for nonresidents.
Applying to NSU
NSU requires prospective students to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a desire to work in higher education administration. Applicants must also submit a career statement and minimum 282 GRE scores.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $475/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
5. Baker University
Private university in Baldwin City, KS, accredited by the HLC
Baker University serves about 4,000 students in bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. The school began 160 years ago as an educational initiative of what is now the United Methodist Church.
Master of Science in Student Affairs for Leadership in Higher Education
BU's online higher education master's degree blends rigorous coursework with hands-on experience. Through seven-week courses, students learn about trends in higher education, budgets, assessments, and conflict management. The curriculum also includes two individualized practicums.
Courses include adaptive and ethical leadership; resource development and external relations; and leading through change, innovation, and strategic planning. Most courses combine asynchronous work that students can complete on their own schedule with synchronous virtual class sessions that imitate face-to-face learning. To graduate, students must earn a minimum grade of C in each course.
Graduates can seek jobs in enrollment management, student affairs, career planning, and academic advising.
Applying to BU
Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA from an accredited institution. To apply, prospective students should send all transcripts, an application, and a $20 fee.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $386/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous)
6. University of North Texas
Public university in Denton, TX, accredited by SACSCOC
One of the largest universities in the nation, UNT offers 109 bachelor's, 94 master's, and 36 doctoral programs. Its 4,600 faculty members help educate more than 38,000 students from around the world.
Master of Education in Higher Education with an Emphasis in General Administration
Professionals seeking entry-level or mid-management positions in higher education can prepare for career advancement through UNT's 36-credit master's program.
All students take a 15-credit higher education core, including courses such as student demographics and cultural pluralism in higher education. The program also requires a course in educational statistics, a six-credit internship or practicum, and a 12-credit specialization track in general administration.
The curriculum prepares students for employment in a multitude of positions in university settings, and its student life track meets the Council for the Advancement of Standards for graduate programs in student affairs.
To date, more than 1,000 students have completed their master's in higher education from UNT.
Applying to UNT
Prospective students apply to the graduate school first, then to the program. Applicants should submit a $75 application fee, transcripts, a writing sample, three references, and a resume. GRE scores are optional.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $303/credit (in state); $787/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
7. Southern Arkansas University
Public university in Magnolia, AR, accredited by the HLC
Established more than 100 years ago, SAU now serves about 4,700 students from its campus located one hour east of Texarkana. The school provides over 80 academic programs through six schools and colleges.
M. Ed. in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education
SAU offers a master's in higher education administration online for professionals working in college classrooms or administrative positions. The program's 30 required credits of coursework cover the foundations of higher education including curriculum, teaching, administration, and research.
Required courses include educational research; a higher, adult, and lifelong learning education seminar; and a three-credit capstone. Degree-seekers may pursue an emphasis in adult education or higher education, and students can take classes from both fields of study.
Graduates are prepared to present solutions to problems in higher education, articulate those solutions in writing, and consider alternative approaches to problem-solving.
Applying to SAU
SAU requires graduate applicants to submit an application, official transcripts, and GRE or MAT scores. The school is waiving test scores for the 2020-2021 academic year. Applicants should hold a cumulative GPA of 2.5, or 2.75 in the final 60 credits.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $284/credit (in state); $446/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
8. University of Southern Mississippi
Public university in Hattiesburg, MS, accredited by SACSCOC
Founded in 1910, USM now enrolls students from more than 71 countries on its two campuses and online. The school serves more than 14,600 learners, its highest enrollment since 2014.
Higher Education (Student Affairs Administration), M.Ed.
USM offers a 36-credit master's in higher education program to prepare graduates to work and serve in colleges and universities. Courses include helping skills in student affairs practice, foundations of student affairs administration, social justice in higher education, and assessment in student affairs practice. The school accepts up to 12 transfer credits, provided those courses did not apply toward a previously earned degree.
After graduation, students may pursue careers in admissions, administration, residence life, or another area of higher education management. All new students begin in the fall term, and the school follows a traditional academic calendar.
Applying to USM
Applicants should submit official GRE scores, a statement of purpose, a resume, and three letters of recommendation. For unconditional admission, applicants should also hold a minimum GPA of 2.75 in undergraduate work.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $494/credit
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
9. Columbus State University
Public university in Columbus, GA, accredited by SACSCOC
Located 100 miles southwest of Atlanta, CSU emphasizes affordable, accessible, and creative education. The institution enrolls about 7,000 students in over 75 academic programs. Cody, a cougar, serves as the school's mascot.
Educational Leadership (MEd) - Higher Education Track
CSU's entry-level master's in higher education emphasizes development of skills in leadership, administration, and change management. Coursework at CSU consists of nine credits of core courses and 27 credits in the higher education concentration. Degree-seekers take classes such as the American college student, student development theory, and higher education law and ethics. A three-credit internship rounds out the program.
The school benchmarked its learning standards according to the requirements of the American College Personnel Association Professional Competencies and the Council of the Advancement of Higher Education.
Applying to CSU
Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree and either a minimum 3.0 GPA or a minimum 2.7 GPA with one year of relevant work experience. Prospective students must also submit a resume, a statement of intent, and two letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $385/credit
- Program Length: N/A
- Delivery Format: 100% online
10. University of West Alabama
Public university in Livingston, AL, accredited by SACSCOC
Founded in 1835 as a church-related academy for women, UWA now welcomes a diverse student body from across the U.S. and other countries.The school offers more than 70 academic programs online.
M.Ed. Student Affairs in Higher Education
Scholars and practitioners can advance their leadership skills through UWA's online master's in higher education. This 33-credit program requires nine credits of professional courses and 27 credits in the specialization.
Courses include theory and philosophy of student affairs, counseling multicultural populations, and management and supervision for student affairs professionals. UWA accepts nine hours of graduate credits for transfer. To graduate, students must complete a practicum and earn a grade of C or better in all courses.
As part of the program, online learners enjoy a one-on-one mentor who helps with building a network and developing relevant professional skills.
Applying to UWA
Degree-seekers must submit transcripts along with an application before meeting with their enrollment counselor. In this program, prospective students must meet all criteria for the School of Graduate Studies, including a background check.
Program at a Glance
- Tuition: $429/credit
- Required Credits: 33 credits
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
What To Expect From Master's in Higher Education Programs
Master's in education programs prepare students to excel in the many realms of the field. While some degrees cater to teaching careers, others focus on professional skill sets.
Students who hope to teach at the college level should consider pursuing master's degrees in their areas of expertise. Those aspiring to management, leadership, or guidance positions may pursue a master's in higher education. These programs vary slightly in coursework and style of instruction but share the goal of preparing future leaders in higher education.
Each enrollee should expect to spend two years studying higher education principles and researching a thesis project. These degrees typically comprise 40-50 credits and cost around $10,000-$45,000. Students can also specialize in areas like educational leadership and enrollment management.
Admission Requirements
Prospective graduate students prepare for the graduate application process by taking tests and compiling materials to demonstrate readiness for higher-level coursework. Some common admission requirements include:
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Prior Education
Each applicant should hold a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Many programs may also require an active state teacher license.
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Work Experience
Some master's programs require professional, internship, or teaching experiences as prerequisites for certain courses.
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Transcripts
Candidates must provide official academic documents that detail their undergraduate GPAs, coursework, specializations, academic honors, and more.
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Tests
The Graduate Record Examination aims to predict students' success at the graduate level. Most programs stipulate that applicants complete the test, with specific score requirements varying by school.
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Additional Materials
Depending on the program, prospective enrollees may also need to provide resumes, essays, personal statements, and/or letters of recommendation.
Degree and Specialization Options
Graduate-level degrees in education can meet many different employment needs, so students should select their programs and specializations based on their prospective careers.
Aspiring postsecondary college instructors should pursue master's degrees in their ideal content areas. Coursework helps each student to develop mastery of their subject and prepare to instruct in their concentration. Graduates often use this degree as a stepping stone on the way to a Ph.D.
An applicant looking to work at the university level in administrative, leadership, or counseling roles should consider a master's in education. This degree prepares students to assume leadership positions.
Some concentrations offer students a competitive edge in the job market, such as educational leadership, adult education, community college leadership, enrollment management, and college program planning. Ultimately, degree-seekers' career goals should motivate their selection of both degree programs and specializations.
Comparing Higher Education and Teaching Degrees
With professional roles in education available at every level and in many different subjects, each student must determine their ideal degree. Many aspiring administrators and teachers consider degrees in higher education and teaching.
Despite their similar names, these degrees provide different areas of focus and prepare students for divergent career paths.
A master's in higher education specifically prepares learners for leadership roles at the university level, while a master's in teaching helps teachers develop mastery of the teaching craft.
The following table includes more similarities and differences:
| Master's in Higher Education | Master's in Teaching | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2 years | 1-2 years |
| Course Load | 40-50 credits | 30-40 credits |
| Types of Classes |
|
|
| Focus | Development of practical skills and professional protocols in postsecondary institutions | Critical evaluation of the practice and theory of teaching |
| Student Demographics | Students with bachelor's degrees in education or related fields | Teachers with bachelor's degrees in education and work experience |
| Goal | Prepare professionals in education for leadership roles, program development, and student guidance | Help K-12 teachers advance their careers and develop mastery of educational theory, classroom management, and curriculum development |
| Common Careers |
|
|
Popular Higher Education Courses
Graduate-level courses in higher education prepare students for leadership and administrative roles in postsecondary institutions. Course offerings, specializations, and concentrations vary by school, but students can expect to study common principles and theories as they apply to higher education leadership.
Many of the core classes in higher education programs explore program development and human resources management, while electives allow students to select courses based on their specific professional goals. The following list details some common coursework:
Popular Courses
Program Development and Planning
History and Philosophy of Education
Human Resource Management
Organizational Behavior
Learner Differences
The Master's Practicum or Thesis
Each enrollee typically culminates their master's in higher education with a thesis. These projects require learners to select areas of study and conduct in-depth research under the supervision of program faculty. Thesis projects generally take 1-2 semesters to complete, and students must present and successfully defend their research to attain their master's degrees.
Some master's in higher education programs also prepare students to become certified higher education professionals. Career Education Colleges and Universities administers this certification, which demonstrates a mastery of topics related to higher education. Students enrolled in cooperating programs can earn this certification by completing coursework and 48 hours of training.
How Much Will a Master's in Higher Education Cost?
Due to the many factors contributing to overall cost, tuition for a master's in higher education can vary, but students can expect to pay around $10,000-$45,000. Enrollees should also consider other financial expenses, like cost of living, books and materials fees, technology, and loss of income while attending school.
Budget-conscious students should consider online programs from affordable state schools that allow them to continue working while studying. Private on-campus programs often come with expensive price tags, but many affordable schools share the same accreditations.
Fortunately, students pursuing master's in higher education degrees can take advantage of several financing options. Scholarships, grants, loans, and fellowships make it easier for learners to afford their graduate-level degrees. Our financial aid and FAFSA guides below offer helpful information on the matter.
Jobs for Master's in Higher Education Graduates
A master's in higher education develops foundational knowledge of many aspects related to leadership and administration, allowing graduates to pursue many lucrative careers in the field. Postsecondary education administrators and human resource managers enjoy especially high salaries and positive employment projections. Professionals with master's in higher education degrees may even take on roles as postsecondary teachers to lecture in introductory university courses.
Higher Education Careers for Master's Graduates
Postsecondary Education Administrators
These administrators oversee student services, academic programs, and faculty research in public and private colleges and universities.
Human Resources Managers
Careers in human resources management require planning, coordinating, and directing the personnel and administrative functions of schools and organizations.
School and Career Counselors
Careers in school counseling involve helping students to select degrees, register for classes, satisfy degree requirements, and meet academic goals. Career counselors also help students navigate their paths to employment.
Training and Development Managers
These managers plan, coordinate, and direct professional development programs for schools and organizations, ensuring that employees continue to improve.
Postsecondary Teachers
Careers in teaching at the postsecondary level involve instructing students in academic and technical subjects at public and private colleges and universities.
Explore Education Careers
Choosing the Right Higher Education Graduate Program
Higher education students can begin their program search with our ranked lists, but they should also consider the following factors:
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Accreditation
Students should always ensure the accreditation status of their prospective schools. Regional accreditation carries more prestige than national accreditation. For education degrees, programs should hold programmatic accreditation with the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), or The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.
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Cost and Financial Aid
Students should look into scholarships, grants, and other aid options offered at all prospective schools to lower their total debt upon graduating.
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Program Composition
The available coursework and specializations play a crucial role in each learners' future. Enrollees should ensure that the available concentrations align with their career goals.
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Alumni Network
Professional careers in higher education often require networking. Prospective students should research the alumni support and networking options offered by each school.
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Future Education Opportunities
Since a master's in higher education often leads to a Ph.D., graduate students may want to consider whether they can continue their education at their school. Some schools provide a more streamlined process to apply for a doctoral degree if a graduate already holds a degree from that institution.
Why You Should Get Your Degree Online
Prospective students may find it difficult to plan for the cost and lifestyle changes that accompany education. Fortunately, online learning allows learners to receive an education without significantly altering their lives.
Education professionals who want to pursue master's degrees in higher education administration online can take advantage of flexible class options to continue working while studying on their schedule.
Students can also save money with online degrees. Online master's in higher education programs tend to be cheaper by the credit, and virtual students can also save time and money on commuting, parking, and other campus-specific fees.
Despite the growing prevalence of online education, students may be reasonably concerned that online programs lack the reliability of on-campus programs. Fortunately, school accreditation agencies like TEAC evaluate schools' integrity. These accreditations communicate the merit of online master's in higher education programs, along with their viability in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I major in to become a school administrator?
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Can I teach with a master's in higher education?
Recommended Reading
Resources for Online Higher Education Master's Students
- Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education As the leading organization focused on the development and advancement of leadership, NASPA provides opportunities for professional development and scholarships for student affairs professionals.
- National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities NAICU, a national organization for private nonprofit higher education, provides its members with access to current data trends and a network of professionals.
- American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers AACRAO offers professional development, standards, and guidelines for higher education professionals.
- The Council of Higher Education Management Associations CHEMA focuses on management in higher education. Members share experiences and collaborate on projects. CHEMA maintains associations with many higher education organizations to provide its members with a valuable peer network.
- National Association of Student Affairs Professionals NASAP fosters excellence in student affairs. Members include academic and administrative professionals. NASAP offers professional development opportunities for professionals who serve marginalized populations in diverse settings.