Master of Education in Higher Education

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Houston

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Higher Education at the University of Houston prepares students for professional and leadership roles in colleges, universities, and other postsecondary educational institutions. The program focuses on higher education administration, student development, institutional leadership, educational policy, and research, helping graduates develop the skills needed to address challenges in postsecondary education.

Curriculum Structure

The program requires 36 credit hours and includes core coursework, an elective, an internship, and either a comprehensive examination or master's thesis.

Year 1 – Foundational Studies: Students explore American Higher Education (ELCS 6338), Student Development/Student Affairs (ELCS 6332), and Cultural Foundations of American Education (ELCS 7338). They also study Organization and Administration of Student Support Services (ELCS 6322) and Critical Issues in Higher Education (ELCS 6342).

Year 2 – Advanced Studies and Professional Practice: Students develop leadership, policy, and research expertise through Administration of Higher Education I (ELCS 7330), Leadership for Change (ELCS 7354), Educational Planning and Policy (ELCS 6380), and Research Methods in Higher Education (ELCS 6371). They also complete Internship in Higher Education (ELCS 6393), an elective, and either a comprehensive examination or master's thesis.

Focus Areas

Higher education administration, student affairs, student development, institutional leadership, educational policy, academic advising, institutional assessment, educational research, student retention and success.

Learning Outcomes

Develop institutional leadership skills, understand higher education policies, evaluate student development needs, apply research methods, manage student support services, assess institutional effectiveness, strengthen administrative decision-making, promote student success.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The 36-credit curriculum follows recommendations from the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) and the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE). Specific program-level professional accreditation is not stated.

Reputation (Employability)

The program prepares graduates for leadership and administrative positions across community colleges, technical colleges, research universities, liberal arts institutions, and minority-serving colleges. Full-time students also have opportunities for graduate assistantships and professional development.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Houston, the Master of Education in Higher Education program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that translate theory into practice. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to develop practical skills that are essential for a successful career in higher education. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, innovative digital tools, and collaborative projects that enhance your learning experience.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MEd Higher Education program:

- Internships: Engage in meaningful internships with local colleges and universities, providing you with real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on projects that tackle current issues in higher education, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software such as Blackboard and Canvas for course management, as well as data analysis tools that are essential for research in higher education.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various educational institutions, allowing you to observe and analyze different administrative practices and student services.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research facilities where you can conduct studies on educational policies, student engagement, and institutional effectiveness.
- Libraries: Benefit from the extensive resources at the University of Houston Libraries, which provide access to a wealth of academic journals, books, and databases relevant to higher education research.
- Institute for Higher Education: Engage with the Institute for Higher Education, which offers additional resources, workshops, and seminars focused on current trends and challenges in the field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Education in Higher Education at the University of Houston prepares graduates for impactful careers in various educational settings. With a focus on leadership, policy, and administration, students can expect to pursue roles such as Academic Advisor, Student Affairs Administrator, or Enrollment Manager. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic landscape of higher education:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events tailored for graduate students, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the MEd in Higher Education have a strong employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for roles in this field ranges from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on the position and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Houston has established partnerships with local educational institutions and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MEd 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 influential positions in universities across the country, contributing to policy development and student success initiatives.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Education in Higher Education, you may choose to pursue a Doctorate in Education (EdD) or a PhD in Higher Education Leadership. These advanced degrees can open doors to higher-level administrative roles, faculty positions, or research opportunities, allowing you to further influence the field of education.