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Higher Education and Student Affairs, M.Ed.

College of Education

Learn to effectively blend theory, research and best practices from coursework and supervised experiences to become a transformational leader in 21st-century higher education.

Our renowned higher education and student affairs master’s program has a 50-year history of preparing entry and mid-level professionals for successful administrative careers in colleges and universities. Students have the unique opportunity to apply for serving as co-instructors for a section of the award-winning University 101 program.

Program Highlights

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    An Exceptional Faculty

    Learn from a faculty that includes full-time and affiliate members who are practicing administrators.

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    Strong Partnerships

    Work with top leaders through graduate assistantships, internships and college-supervised learning experiences.

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    Expansive Network

    Join one of the most established programs in the nation — one that features a large network of alumni around the globe.

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    Professional Competencies

    Graduate with professional competencies that align with the ACPA/NASPA.

What You’ll Study

Courses emphasize topics related to the philosophy of higher education and student affairs, with an emphasis on social justice, student development and institutional administration. Learn to apply theory to practice, including conditions that facilitate student learning within contemporary trends and contexts. Engage in learning opportunities that advance your goals.

Program WebsiteDegree DetailsAdmissions Info

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Collaboration

    Working with others to achieve a common goal or objective

    Cultural Awareness

    Learning about and respecting diverse cultures and beliefs

    Interpersonal Skills

    Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations

  • Leadership

    Inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals and reach their full potential

    Presentation Skills

    Preparing and delivering effective and engaging presentations to inform, persuade or inspire

    Problem Solving

    Identifying, analyzing and resolving problems or challenges using creative and effective strategies

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.

Potential Careers

  • Educational Leader

Job Titles of Alumni

  • Academic Advisor
  • Assistant Director for Residence Life
  • Executive Director
  • Instructor
  • Recruiter
  • Assistant Dean of Admissions

Average Alumni Salary

Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $79,070

Workplace Settings

  • Education
  • Information Technology
  • Health Care
  • Finance
  • Nonprofits

Employers of Alumni

  • University of South Carolina
  • Midlands Technical College
  • Greenville Technical College
  • Capital One
  • Spartanburg Community College
  • University of Delaware

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