Higher Education Leadership (MHEL) M.S.

CIP: 130406

This academic program is unique in philosophy, concept, and delivery. Philosophically, the program is based on the idea that higher education leaders should be equipped with a firm understanding of leadership, culture, and teamwork in order to lead complex organizations and implement their myriad of administrative responsibilities. Conceptually, the program bases its structure on the understanding that adults learn best when new theories, concepts, and information are integrated into familiar contexts, when there are ongoing opportunities for collaboration and discourse, and when the “big picture” is always present. Consequently, the program’s learning model is cohort-based and content is built around broad themes that encompass components of the complex organization we know as higher education.

The model is implemented by delivering content in three modalities: face-to-face through monthly on-site workshops, online, and through field experiences. Opportunities for program specialization are available through electives incorporated into the program.

The learning cohort is comprised of classmates, faculty, employment supervisors, higher education leaders on campus and other campuses, and field literature. The primary cohort for each student are peers and colleagues. Each cohort begins together and stays together throughout the program journey. Expect to spend a significant amount of time collaborating face-to-face and online with cohorts-members.

Program Admission Requirements

1. Candidates are required to hold a bachelors degree from an accredited institution; no other certification is required. Admission standards for the proposed degree will include at least a 2.75 GPA at the undergraduate level.
2. Successful candidates are required to score 280 or higher on the GRE on the combined verbal quantitative sub scores and at least 3.5 on the writing section of the GRE.  For those candidates who have taken the GMAT, the department will accept scores of 450 and higher.
3. All students are required to have a completed Degree Audit Form during the first semester of the program.
4. Students are required to have an approval statement from an immediate supervisor (if employed on a college campus) and a signed confidentiality statement.

Exit Comprehensive Portfolio Required

To meet exit comprehensive requirements, program members are required to submit a completed portfolio and field study in the last semester of coursework for evaluation by a faculty panel. Those students who have successfully completed all course work, portfolio and field study requirements will be approved for graduation.

Working Higher Education Professionals are Encouraged to Apply

Individuals currently holding, or interested in, leadership positions in higher education will find this program flexible and accommodating. Courses will be primarily offered on weekends (Friday evening and all day Saturday) with supplemental online coursework.

Course Requirements

Required Courses

EDUC 61652	Leadership Issues in Higher Education	6
EDUC 61654	Higher Education Administration	6
EDUC 61656	College Students in America	6
EDUC 61658	Law, Policy, and Finance in Higher Education	6
EDUC 61659	Introduction to Institutional Research	3
	Advisor approved electives	6

Total Credit Hours: 33