Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs

Overview

With a curriculum designed to address contemporary topics in higher education and student affairs, online MA HEASA students gain in-depth knowledge of the structures, policies and legal issues faced by higher education leaders. Pace University designed these practical elements of its program to align with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) competencies for the field of student affairs, empowering graduates with skills they can immediately apply to their careers.

Students in the Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs program from Pace University also develop the critical thinking and research skills required to understand how institutional structures, policies, and practices impact the decisions students from varying socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds make throughout their academic journey.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to address the growing challenges that universities face such as the need to balance cost efficiency and student outcomes and increasing pressure to develop rigorous assessment strategies. In their studies, they will gain confidence in their ability to meet performance objectives set forth by accreditation and government bodies.

MA HEASA students critically analyze the historical and social forces affecting underrepresented populations in higher education in order to develop an inclusive academic culture. The organizational decision-making responsibilities these professionals will be responsible for balance student engagement, retention, and operational efficiency. Graduates have the opportunity to develop their skills to fulfill these institutional needs and requirements with care and consideration for a large population of learners and educators.

The experienced program faculty come together from across the University to guide students through retention and development theories, the economics and finance of higher education, and the current legal issues and implications leadership must consider. These seasoned administrators are adept at providing students with a practical application of what it means to create a living learning community.