Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Higher Education Administration

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Washington University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Higher Education Administration at George Washington University prepares students for leadership, administrative, academic, and research careers in colleges, universities, government agencies, and educational organizations. The program develops expertise in university administration, student affairs, educational policy, institutional finance, leadership, and student development through specialized coursework, internship opportunities, and practical experiences in Washington, D.C.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish foundational knowledge through EDUC 6500: Introduction to Student Affairs and Higher Education, EDUC 6510: Administration of Higher Education, and EDUC 6555: Higher Education Policy. They also study EDUC 6560: Legal Problems in Higher Education, developing an understanding of university governance, institutional policies, and legal frameworks.

Year 2: Students develop specialized expertise through electives such as EDUC 6540: Group and Organizational Theories, EDUC 6565: Financing Higher Education, and EDUC 6520: Foundations of College Student Development. They can also undertake EDUC 6585: Master's Internship in Higher Education Administration and complete EDUC 6590: Capstone in Higher Education Administration.

Note: The program requires 30 credit hours, including 15 credits of core courses and 15 credits of electives. Students can select from five focus areas: Administration, Policy and Finance, International Education, Social Justice, and Student Affairs Administration.

Focus Areas

Higher Education Administration, Institutional Leadership, Student Affairs, Educational Policy, Higher Education Finance, International Education, Social Justice, Institutional Research, University Governance.

Learning Outcomes

Understand higher education systems, develop administrative leadership skills, analyze educational policies, manage institutional resources, apply legal and ethical principles, evaluate student services, promote social justice, conduct institutional research, develop strategic plans, improve student success.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The university does not specify a separate professional accreditation for this master's program. The curriculum emphasizes professional competencies in higher education administration, student affairs, institutional policy, leadership, and finance.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

George Washington University's Higher Education Administration program benefits from its location in Washington, D.C., providing exposure to organizations such as the U.S. Department of Education, American Council on Education, ACPA, and NASPA. Graduates have secured leadership positions at institutions including the University of Washington, University of Virginia, Bucknell University, and UC Irvine, as well as professional roles at Deloitte and Google. According to the university, the median annual wage for postsecondary education administrators was $102,610 (2023).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Washington University, the Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Higher Education Administration program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the field. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world challenges in higher education. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences through internships, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available to students in this program:

- Internships: Students have the chance to participate in internships at various higher education institutions and organizations in the D.C. area, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world settings.

- Collaborative Projects: The program encourages teamwork through group projects that simulate real-life scenarios in higher education administration, fostering essential skills in communication and collaboration.

- Digital Tools: Students gain proficiency in essential software and tools used in higher education administration, including data management systems and learning management platforms.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local colleges and universities, providing students with insights into different institutional environments and administrative practices.

- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research laboratories and resources allows students to engage in meaningful research projects that contribute to the field of higher education.

- Libraries and Archives: The Gelman Library and other university resources provide extensive collections and archives that support research and learning in higher education topics.

- Networking Opportunities: Students benefit from connections with professionals in the field through guest lectures, workshops, and events hosted by the university.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Higher Education Administration at George Washington University opens doors to a variety of rewarding career paths. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as Student Affairs Administrator, Academic Advisor, or Enrollment Manager, where they can make a significant impact on student experiences and institutional effectiveness. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in these positions:

- University Services: GWU offers dedicated career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for graduate students in education.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the MA in Higher Education Administration program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates in this field is around $60,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: GWU has established partnerships with various educational institutions and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances their employability.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree holds value and recognition in the education sector.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold leadership positions in universities, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, showcasing the diverse opportunities available to graduates.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MA in Higher Education Administration, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) or a Ph.D. in Higher Education. These advanced degrees can prepare you for higher-level administrative roles, faculty positions, or research opportunities in the field of education. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications in areas such as student affairs or institutional research to enhance your expertise and career prospects.