About the Program:

Higher Education is one of six academic programs in the Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership.  The program is committed to preparing administrative and instructional leaders for service at colleges and universities in both the public and private sectors, generating and supporting research in the field of higher education, and delivering public service to the practice of higher education.  

Standards

Program work within Higher Education is developed and guided by a strong conceptual framework, the standards from the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), guidelines from numerous professional associations, and the sound professional judgment of an experienced and caring faculty.  

Degree/Certification programs of study

There are several options for work within the Higher Education Program.In the Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree program, students may pursue either of two tracks:  higher education administration (36 semester hours) or student affairs (39 semester hours).  Each track offers a thesis and non-thesis option.   

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is designed for students wanting to contribute to the knowledge base of teaching, education, and leadership by acquiring a thorough grounding in the conduct of research.  This program prepares students for careers as institutional researchers and planners; administrators with an orientation towards research, sponsored programs, or grants; program assessment and evaluation specialists; research associates; and faculty members in colleges or universities.  It requires approximately 93 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. 

A second doctoral program, culminating in a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree, is designed for students wanting to achieve a superior level of competency in their professional field.  Students pursuing this degree can focus on one of three areas:  community college leadership, university administration, or student affairs.  It requires approximately 93 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree.  

All of the above programs are described in detail through a variety of online handbooks and documents that are accessed through the links found on this homepage.

Higher Education candidates come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds.  Many program participants have either worked at, or are currently employed by, a college or university.  To accommodate the needs of these working professionals, the Higher Education Program routinely offers a variety of evening, Saturday, and summer courses.  Some of these courses utilize distance education delivery systems.