Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher and Postsecondary Education

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Columbia University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher and Postsecondary Education at Teachers College, Columbia University prepares students for professional careers in colleges, universities, and other postsecondary educational institutions. The program develops expertise in student development, higher education administration, institutional policy, organizational leadership, academic learning, and educational research through three specialized domains: Academic and Developmental Analysis, Organizational and Institutional Analysis, and Social/Cultural and Civic Analysis.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop foundational knowledge through ORLH 4010: Purposes and Policies of Higher Education, ORLH 4011: Curriculum and Instruction in Higher Education, and ORLH 4040: The American College Student. They also study ORL 5521: Introduction to Research Methods in Education and ORLH 5525: Advanced Professional Seminar: College Student Development Theories.

Year 2: Students specialize in their chosen domain through courses such as ORLH 4020: College and University Organization and Administration, ORLH 4031: Financial Administration of Higher Education Institutions, and ORLH 5044: Theories of Diversity in Higher Education. Additional electives include ORLD 4051: How Adults Learn, ORLH 5011: College Teaching and Learning, and ORLH 5545: The Civic Mission of Higher Education.

Note: The M.A. requires a minimum of 32 points and offers three domain sequences. Students complete a culminating project, with internship opportunities available subject to approval.

Focus Areas

Higher Education Administration, Student Development, Academic Learning, Institutional Leadership, University Governance, Higher Education Policy, Diversity and Inclusion, College Teaching, Educational Research, Civic Engagement.

Learning Outcomes

Analyze higher education systems, understand student development, evaluate institutional policies, develop administrative leadership skills, understand curriculum and teaching practices, conduct educational research, promote diversity and inclusion, assess organizational structures, support academic learning.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The university does not specify a separate professional accreditation for this M.A. program. The curriculum emphasizes academic and professional preparation in higher education administration, student development, institutional research, and educational policy.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Teachers College, Columbia University is recognized for its graduate education and research programs. Its Higher and Postsecondary Education program has an established academic focus on student development, institutional leadership, higher education policy, and organizational studies. Graduates pursue academic, student-support, administrative, and policy-related positions across higher education institutions. A specific program-level employment rate or employability ranking is not published.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Columbia University, the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher and Postsecondary Education program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the field of education. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities that allow them to apply what they learn in real-world settings, enhancing their understanding and preparing them for impactful careers. The program leverages Columbia's extensive resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, to ensure that students are well-equipped for the challenges of higher education administration.

Here are some key experiential learning components of the program:

- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships at various educational institutions, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and build professional networks.

- Capstone Projects: The program includes collaborative group projects where students work together to address real-world challenges in higher education, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Field Trips: Students often engage in field trips to local colleges and universities, providing insights into different institutional environments and practices.

- Research Opportunities: Access to dedicated research laboratories and resources enables students to conduct meaningful research in areas such as educational policy, student affairs, and institutional effectiveness.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates various digital tools and software, including data analysis programs and learning management systems, to prepare students for the technological demands of the education sector.

- Libraries and Archives: Columbia's extensive library system, including the Teachers College Library, offers a wealth of resources for research and study, supporting students in their academic pursuits.

- Institutes and Centers: Students can collaborate with various institutes and centers at Columbia, such as the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education, which provides additional learning and research opportunities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher and Postsecondary Education at Columbia University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various roles within the education sector. Alumni of this program often find themselves in positions such as Academic Advisor, Enrollment Manager, or Director of Student Affairs, where they can make a significant impact on student success and institutional effectiveness. The program's strong emphasis on practical experience and theoretical foundations prepares students for a dynamic career in higher education:

- University Services: Columbia offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for education professionals. The Office of Career Services also connects students with alumni and industry leaders.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for alumni is around $60,000, with potential for growth as they gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Columbia has established partnerships with leading educational institutions and organizations, such as the American Council on Education and the Association of American Colleges and Universities, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that the education you receive meets high standards and is recognized nationally.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to hold influential positions in various sectors, including public and private universities, community colleges, and educational nonprofits, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing leaders in higher education.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher and Postsecondary Education, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in Higher Education, which can further enhance your expertise and open doors to advanced leadership roles in academia or policy-making. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications in areas such as student affairs or educational leadership, allowing you to tailor your career path to your interests and goals.