Master of Science in Higher Education Administration

Program Leader: Dr. Benjamin Baez                                                                      
E-mail:   baezb@fiu.edu
Website: http://www.fiu.edu/~baezb                         
Phone:   305-348-3214                                                                            
Department: Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Program Leader: Dr. Helen  Ellison
E-mail: Helen.Ellison@fiu.edu
Phone: 305-348-2797

Brief Description of the Program:

The Master of Science in Higher Education Administration prepares graduates to serve in a variety of roles at colleges and universities and related institutions. The academic program is run as a partnership with FIU’s Student Affairs division, and integrates class-work with assistantships for a total learning experience. As a majority-minority institution, FIU is the prototype for universities of opportunity in the 21st century. Students in the program will have the opportunity to work and study in one of the most diverse higher education environments in the nation.

Student Learning Outcomes for Master’s Candidates in Higher Education Administration

The Master’s in Higher Education Administration is part of a College of Education with a unique mission of urban education (see the FIU College of Education’s Conceptual Framework at http://education.fiu.edu/cf.htm. Our program aligns with this overall framework.

In addition to the specific outcomes of each course and course requirements, the Master’s candidates in Higher Education Administration are expected to meet three overall learning outcomes: (1) stewardship of the discipline, (2) reflective inquiry, and (3) mindful education. Each outcome is discussed below.

First, as stewards of the discipline, Master’s candidates in higher education administration will have the knowledge commensurate with graduate-level study of the historical, philosophical, administrative, and legal research and practice in the field of higher education administration. They will also exhibit specialized knowledge in one or more theories shaping student or administrative behavior in the field of higher education.

Second, as reflective inquirers, Master’s candidates in Higher Education Administration will be apply the knowledge they gained in the classroom to improve administrative practice and college student development. They will think critically about educational issues, reflect on their practice, and change their approaches based on their insights. They will also merge theory learned in the classroom with practice.

Third, as mindful educators, Master’s candidates in Higher Education Administration will develop the habits of mind to adopt a critical eye toward ideas and actions, show curiosity and passion about learning through inquiry, deal comfortably with ambiguity, and will act on the basis of initiative. They will also recognize the wholeness and distinctiveness of others, and make meaning by being open-minded, respect diversity in their professional lives.

Admission Requirements:

1. A baccalaureate degree and an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of upper-division undergraduate study;
2. Work experience in higher education such as community college or student affairs areas is preferred but not required;
3. Two (2) letters of recommendation;
4. Personal statement;
5. Resume.

Program Requirements:

36 semester hours

Program of Study:

Capstone Experience

Students will be required to demonstrate the ability to synthesize their learning through a capstone educational activity. This experience will be completed with the direction of the advisor/faculty and may reflect a project emphasizing research experience (such as a thesis, independent study or literature review) or practical experience (such as an action research project or assessment).

Required Courses

The required courses reflect the range of basic knowledge common to all higher education professionals. Whatever the job function, it is imperative that university professionals know the law, be aware of current issues, be sensitive to the diversity of student culture and understand the core functions of administration.

Advisor Approved Electives

The advisor approved electives are designed are designed to allow students to choose a part of study that reflects their immediate career goals, while maintaining program coherence. Advisors will work with students to decide on an elective track, and students must complete those prescribed courses. There are opportunities for additional electives at the student’s discretion.

 Practicum Experiences

A professional degree in university administration should allow for some guided practical experience.  The practicum sections allow students the opportunity to earn credit while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a variety of administrative areas. Practicum sections will include an academic component designed by the Higher Education faculty and the section supervisor.

The graduation requirements include successful completion of the above program of study, including the capstone experience.

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Updated 5/12/09