Student Affairs in Higher Education, MA

The Department of Student Affairs in Higher Education (SAHE) houses one graduate program, offering the MA degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education.

The SAHE program is designed to prepare graduate students for employment in higher education in entry-level or mid-management student affairs positions, dependent upon their previous experiences. Graduates will fill professional positions in two- and four-year colleges and universities in areas such as admissions, housing and residence life, student development programs, student activities, financial aid, career planning and development, and academic advising or other program areas.

Under the guidance of student affairs faculty and practitioners, requisite knowledge will be acquired through a balance of academic and practical experiences which stress critical thinking and encourage the development of professional behavior. Students will develop a broad range of skills, in-depth knowledge, and the ability to apply concepts and skills as effective practitioners. The program is organized in cohort groupings of students enrolled in a curriculum offering foundational and theory courses in the first year and application courses in the second year.

Admission Criteria

Admission into the program can be from any undergraduate major, provided that students have demonstrated scholarship and the potential for success in advanced studies. A minimum of 42 hours (33 required course hours and 9 hours of electives or thesis) and the successful completion of a portfolio are required to earn the degree. Electives courses are drawn from the courses offered by the SAHE Department. Students may also take SAHE 731 a third time or GSR 615 as an elective. This degree is typically earned over two years of full-time study in daytime classes.

In addition to graduate school admissions requirements, the SAHE program requires a personal interview. All graduate assistant candidates must come to campus for personal interviews. Admissions interviews can run concurrently with assistantship interviews.