The Master of Science in Higher Education (HIED) is a degree program with options of focus in Higher Education Policy and Student Services. The program serves those contemplating careers in higher education or already working in a college or university, as well as those interested in pursuing the study of higher education at the doctoral level. The Ph.D. program in Higher Education requires research on some aspect of higher education, broadly defined. Students may select an area of concentration from the history and philosophy of higher education, the socio-cultural study of higher education, legal and organizational study of higher education, or research, measurement, and evaluation in higher education. Ph.D. dissertations are expected to advance knowledge in the field and/or further develop existing theory. The program is ideally suited for those who wish to develop the scholarly competence required for service as faculty.
Master's of Higher Education (HIED) - Application Requirements
- Personal Statement
- We would like to know why you want to study in our department. What brings you, autobiographically to this point in your life? What aspects of our program interest you? What questions, issues, or areas of inquiry would you like to explore while taking our classes? And what do you plan to do with your degree upon completion? You may wish to browse our list of courses and read our faculty bio statements found on the department website in order to prepare your response. We are interested in how well you articulate your ideas as well as your ambitions. Your statement should be approximately 500 words.
- Two letters of recommendation
- CV/Resume
Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
Application Deadlines
Spring: Priority Deadline October 1; applications may be reviewed after this date
Summer: Priority deadline February 1; applications may be reviewed after this date.
Fall: Priority deadline February 1; applications may be reviewed after this date.
Students wishing to receive their admissions decisions in time to apply for graduate assistantships and fellowships should submit their applications by the Priority Deadline for the appropriate semester.
Doctor of Philosophy in Studies in Higher Education (SHED) - Application Requirements
- A master's degree or equivalent level of coursework.
- Personal Statement
- A personal/professional statement is very important to your application. Doctoral candidates should also outline goals for research in the doctoral program. The admissions committee is interested in determining how well your goals “fit” with what our department can offer. These statements should be less than 500 words.
- Writing Sample
- Your writing sample helps us assess whether your writing skills are up to the challenge of graduate coursework in our department. We like to see samples that show your ability to analyze a problem, develop a thesis, and work with primary and/or secondary sources. Thus an academic paper or article is often the best choice, but some professional writing would also be acceptable if it includes evidence of these critical writing skills. An alternative essay is also possible if you do not have a writing sample you feel represents your current skills. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies if you would like to write an essay specifically for your application.
- Four letters of recommendation
- Your recommendations help us determine the likelihood of success in graduate school and confirm your description of your goals for study. Thus your recommenders should know you well, and at least half of your letters should come from people who know your academic work (or at least your writing and analysis skills). If email is not an option, you may ask your recommenders to send written letters directly to the department via postal mail.
- CV (optional)
- Please include work history, any certifications/licensures, publications and research, and hobbies or special interests.
Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
Spring: October 1
Summer: February 1
Fall: February 1
