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

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Illinois Urbana Champaign

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is designed for students interested in understanding higher education institutions, educational policies, and the social and organizational factors influencing colleges and universities. The research-oriented degree develops expertise in higher education foundations, institutional policy, sociology, educational research, and critical analysis, preparing students for research, policy, and academic careers.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students build foundational knowledge of higher education through EPOL 551: Organization of Higher Education, EPOL 552: Foundation of Higher Education, and EPOL 562: Diversity in Higher Education. They explore university governance, institutional structures, educational policy, diversity, and the social and economic factors influencing postsecondary education.

Year 2: Students develop specialized knowledge through EPOL 563: The College Student, EPOL 555: Higher Education Finance, and EPOL 566: Public Policy in Higher Education. They also undertake research methodology coursework and complete EPOL 599: Thesis Research, demonstrating their ability to conduct independent educational research.

Note: The M.A. requires a minimum of 32 credit hours, including foundations coursework, advanced education courses, electives, and thesis research. The year-wise structure is indicative, not a prescribed sequence.

Focus Areas

Higher Education Administration, Institutional Leadership, University Governance, Higher Education Policy, College Student Development, Institutional Finance, Diversity and Equity, Educational Research.

Learning Outcomes

Analyze higher education institutions, understand university governance, evaluate educational policies, examine student development, assess institutional diversity, understand higher education finance, conduct independent research, apply sociological perspectives, develop policy analysis skills.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The university does not specify a separate professional accreditation for the M.A. program. The degree emphasizes academic research and theoretical understanding of higher education, with a master's thesis and oral defence as major requirements.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's College of Education offers established research opportunities through its Education Policy, Organization and Leadership department. Its Higher Education concentration examines the social, political, and economic challenges affecting postsecondary institutions. The university does not publish a specific employment rate or program-level employability ranking for this M.A.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for a successful career in the field. Students engage in practical learning through various opportunities, including internships, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, which is crucial for developing the skills needed to navigate the complexities of higher education.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MA Higher Education program:

- Internships: Gain valuable experience through internships at local colleges and universities, allowing you to apply your learning in professional environments.
- Collaborative Projects: Work on group projects that simulate real-world challenges in higher education, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as Qualtrics for survey design and data analysis, and Canvas for course management, enhancing your technical proficiency.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various educational institutions, providing insights into different administrative structures and practices.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research labs and libraries, including the University Library, one of the largest in the nation, which offers extensive resources for your studies.
- Institutes and Centers: Engage with specialized institutes such as the Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning, which focuses on enhancing educational practices through research and technology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign prepares graduates for a variety of impactful roles in the education sector. Alumni often find themselves in positions such as Student Affairs Administrator, Academic Advisor, or Enrollment Manager. This program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in these roles:

- University Services for Employment: The Career Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for graduate students. Additionally, the Graduate College provides resources for job placement and internships.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of the MA in Higher Education program have a strong employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is around $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Illinois has established partnerships with various educational institutions and organizations, such as the Illinois Board of Higher Education and local community colleges, providing students with valuable internship and job opportunities.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market and meets high educational standards.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work in diverse settings, including universities, community colleges, and educational nonprofits, demonstrating the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education, you may choose to pursue a doctoral degree, such as a PhD in Educational Policy or a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership. This can open doors to advanced roles in academia, research, or higher education administration, allowing you to further influence the field and contribute to educational reform.