Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > MA in Higher Education Administration

Master of Arts (MA) in
Higher Education Administration

Online

Program Overview

The University of Alabama’s online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree program is designed to teach graduate students valuable leadership skills and principles to use as they advance their careers in higher education. Students will have the opportunity to explore trends in education related to academic and student affairs, technology, finance, diversity and inclusion, program administration, leadership and more!

Program Format
Online
Credit Hours
36
Tuition Per Hour
$480

Prepare for a Career in Higher Education

You will learn from faculty credentialed in higher education and cover topics in all aspects of the field. Gain a broad-based view of higher education, including practical and applied knowledge to expand your skill set and increase your understanding.

Our graduates are working in a number of areas in higher education, including advancement, business and financial services, advising, facilities management, human resources, alumni relations, fundraising, online education, financial aid, admissions, advising, enrollment management and international programs.

All undergraduate majors are welcome to apply.

Application DeadlineJuly 15 for fall admission, November 1 for spring admission, and April 15 for summer admission
Fees$10 College of Education graduate fee (per credit hour)
Required For EntranceBachelor's degree
Scholarships and Grants AvailableDiscover a range of scholarships and grants to support your educational journey
Completion TimeMost students earn their degree in less than two years

Curriculum

The MA in Higher Education Administration consists of 36 credit hours and is designed for students seeking to enter a range of professional careers in postsecondary education. Please note that courses are subject to change.

AHE 500 Perspectives on Higher Education Administration
AHE 503 Learning with Technology in Higher Education
AHE 507 Student Development Theory I
AHE 520 The Student in Higher Education
AHE 540 Organization and Governance
AHE 550 Financing Higher Education
AHE 593 Student Affairs Capstone Seminar
AHE 645 Higher Education/Student Affairs Assessment
AHE 680 Readings in Higher Education
AHE 685 Higher Education in the United States
BER 540 Statistical Methods in Education

Choose one from the following list:

AHE 505 Grant, Project, and Research Work in Higher Education
AHE 603 College and University Teaching
AHE 644 Seminar in Academic Program Development and Evaluation
AHE 670 Higher Education Policy

Admission

Admission to the Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree program requires the following:

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Undergraduate GPA of 3.0, or a 3.0 average for the last 60 hours in a degree program, or a 3.0 or higher in a completed graduate degree program to be considered for regular admission
Transcripts from all institutions attended
Three letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
An updated curriculum vita or résumé
A five-page writing sample describing a problem that faces higher education nationally today, analyzing salient points of the issue, and evaluating potential solutions. The writing sample should demonstrate formal writing and should include appropriate citations. Applicants may submit an academic paper in lieu of the five-page essay, preferably on a recent topic related to higher education.
Completed UA Graduate School application

Applications are accepted each semester. Students may begin the program in the fall, spring or summer semester.

Application deadlines: