How do you choose the best MS in Higher Education program?

MS in Higher Education candidates have many options when it comes to choosing the program that is right for them. However, a few key factors should always be considered in your decision-making process, including flexibility, diversity, and support. First, flexible scheduling can be key for working professionals, which is why online degree programs are such a popular choice. It’s also important to be able to connect with other professionals. Those with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences can greatly enhance your master’s experience. Lastly, be sure you choose a university with a strong support team that is invested in your success as you work toward your advanced higher education degree.

What can you expect in an online MS in Higher Education program?

Online programs vary based on a variety of factors, like where you’re earning your degree and the area of focus you choose. For example, Walden University has been educating adult professionals for 50 years and is a known leader in online learning. When you choose to earn your degree from Walden, you’ll be supported at every turn with personal advisors, faculty members who are all scholar-practitioners, and support services that include a Writing Center with 50 full-time writing professionals, a world-class online library, and much more. As for the MS in Higher Education program, you can choose the general program or select one of six specializations that allow you align your studies with your interests and career goals. You will also complete a capstone project in which you will apply what you have learned to a real-word issue or problem.

Should you earn your MS in Higher Education online?

One of the best, most convenient ways to earn your MS in Higher Education is to enroll in an online program offered by a respected university. With online learning, you can continue working full time and balance your other responsibilities while earning your degree. An online higher education master’s program lets you complete your coursework from anywhere you have internet access. It’s a great way to earn your MS in Higher Education so that you can begin addressing the most pressing issues facing higher education institutions and improve organizational and student success.

Where can an MS in Higher Education take you?

With a master’s degree, you can gain the skills and knowledge to develop and lead higher education programs, services, and classes. Individuals with higher education degrees choose from a diverse array of careers in areas including academic advising, academic affairs, corporate training, distance learning, faculty development, marketing, military education, student affairs, finance, and more. The career services team at an accredited university, like Walden, is also available to provide one-on-one counseling, career tools, resources, and strategies that can only strengthen your career path.

What are some interesting MS in Higher Education specializations?

Many students at Walden choose to earn their MS in Higher Education with a specialization in Global Higher Education. This specialization helps prepare graduates to take advantage of the many opportunities for global collaboration and alliances among colleges and universities. The internet, sophisticated e-learning platforms, and the proliferation of mobile devices have broadened the reach of higher education far beyond traditional parameters. Students learn approaches to program planning and management as well as ways to attract and serve international students. This specialization introduces students to different approaches to being an agent for positive change in global higher education. Walden’s MS in Higher Education specialization in Adult Learning is designed to provide students with the specific knowledge and skills they’ll need to effectively educate adult learners. Coursework centers on understanding adult development, research-based best practices in adult teaching and learning, and the effects that diversity and multiculturalism can have on motivating adult learners. This program also integrates developmental education, online teaching, and training and performance improvement. Other specialization options at Walden include Online and Distance Learning, College Teaching and Learning, Enrollment Management and Institutional Marketing, and Leadership for Student Success.

MS in Higher Education

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Lay the foundation for multiple, rewarding career paths with Walden’s master’s in higher education program.

Next start dates

Course-Based Courses with a set schedule March 08, 2021

Transfer Credits

Up to 15 Credits

One Master’s Degree in Higher Education. Many Career Paths.

You want to shape learning environments that empower adults to reach their potential. As one of the top granters of master’s degrees in higher education in the U.S.¹ Walden can help you become the change leader you aspire to be.

In our master’s in higher education program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with—and learn from—a vibrant community of innovators, critical thinkers, and problem solvers. Build a versatile skill set that allows you to stay ahead of the curve in a dynamic field.

Our master’s in higher education degree prepares educators for a range of roles and opportunities in postsecondary education, training, and professional development.

The Educator of Educators™

Walden is home to nearly 60,000 education alumni,² including more than 150 state teachers of the year.

Practitioner Faculty

Our faculty are all passionate, experienced practitioners with a deep understanding of learning and development.

Multiple Career Paths

Build contemporary skills customizable for different roles and settings, from corporate training to academia.

Personalized Learning

Focus on challenges in your current job. Build a portfolio of relevant work you can share with your current or future employer.

Program Savings

Receive your first course at no cost if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on March 8, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.

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General Program and Specializations

General Program

Explore educational strategies and management principles that could help you address today’s most pressing issues facing higher education institutions and improve organizational and student success.

Adult Learning

Explore emerging theories, research, and best practices that can be applied to create effective education experiences for this unique population of learners.

College Teaching and Learning

Examine the major steps in the teaching and learning process: planning, developing, and facilitating learning experiences and assessing outcomes.

Enrollment Management and Institutional Marketing

Learn to develop strategies—using all types of communication tools—that attract students and promote your institution.

Global Higher Education

Broaden your understanding of global trends and issues in higher education.

Leadership for Student Success

Gain the tools you need to develop and measure programs that support student success.

Online and Distance Learning

Explore the most current online technologies to support student learning and organizational effectiveness.

Admission Requirements

Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.

General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.

Build an Advanced, Versatile Skill Set

In our online master’s in higher education program, you’ll develop transferable skills that can help you excel in your current job or pursue new opportunities. Explore strategic planning and budgeting and learn how to build a strong culture and high-performing teams. For your capstone, you’ll have the chance to use your new skills and insights to solve a real challenge from your own workplace.

Meet Your Academic Team

Judith Blakely
Academic Coordinator
A veteran of urban educational systems, Dr. Blakely is certified in multiple states as a school superintendent; school administrator (P–12 principal); and director of special, bilingual, and gifted education. She is also a member of the National Association for Bilingual Education.
Read Judith's Bio
Chris Cale
Contributing Faculty
Dr. Cale has served as a teacher, counselor, principal, consultant, and university instructor for more than 27 years. He has a solid knowledge base in educational and leadership principles sustained by both his educational pursuits and his extensive career in education.
Read Chris's Bio

Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of Walden’s online Master’s in Higher Education program, you’ll be prepared to:

Apply an understanding of higher education systems, business principles, and student learning in solving institutional problems to drive institutional and student success.
Make effective decisions based on critical evaluation of research and data.
Articulate the perspectives and interests of multiple stakeholders.

Choose leadership approaches appropriate to the culture of the organization.
Demonstrate an ability to deploy resources to achieve intended results.
Evaluate the potential impact of policies and processes on student outcomes.

Career Outlook

With more people seeking higher education to meet their career goals, demand for postsecondary teachers is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of these professionals is projected to grow 9% through 2029.³

With the versatile MS in Higher Education degree, you’ll be ready to pursue a variety of hands-on and leadership roles in academia, business, and government. Gain the skills and confidence to expand your career possibilities and make a positive impact for your organization.

An MS in Higher Education prepares you for job roles such as:⁴

Administrator
Professional developer and trainer
Academic director
Research and planning director

Walden is the

No. 2

granter of higher education and higher education administration master’s degrees in the U.S.¹

An MS in Higher Education prepares you to work in settings such as:

Community colleges and universities
Government agencies
Corporate training and development
Workforce development

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

Testimonials

My advisors and my instructors have all played an important role in my life by keeping me on the right track to finishing my degree.

Brittany Harris MS in Higher Education Graduate

Walden’s curriculum offers a cross-cultural perspective. It is very valuable to have my degree from Walden. It’s a strong point in my professional life.

Daniela Brancheau M.S. in Higher Education Graduate

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MS in Higher Education