Overview

The Higher Education and Student Affairs programme at University of South Carolina provides a robust foundation for professionals seeking to advance their careers in collegiate administration and student services. This master degree integrates theoretical research with practical application to prepare graduates for the complexities of modern campus environments. Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasises transformational leadership and inclusive excellence.

Why Higher Education and Student Affairs at University of South Carolina?

With a distinguished history spanning over 50 years, this programme is renowned for its ability to prepare entry and mid-level professionals for success. Students learn from an exceptional faculty comprised of full-time scholars and active university administrators, ensuring that the teaching remains grounded in current industry practices. The university maintains strong partnerships that facilitate high-quality graduate assistantships and supervised learning experiences.

A unique feature of the programme is the opportunity for students to apply as co-instructors for the award-winning University 101 initiative. This experience allows participants to gain direct classroom and mentorship skills. Furthermore, the curriculum is carefully aligned with professional competencies established by ACPA and NASPA, ensuring that graduates meet the highest national standards in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 572 per credit
National fee: USD 572 per credit
Local fee: USD 572 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the philosophy of higher education, student development theory, and institutional administration. Modules may include:

Higher Education and Student Affairs
Social Justice
Student Development
Institutional Administration
Contemporary Trends and Contexts
Supervised Learning Experiences

Careers with Higher Education and Student Affairs

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse administrative roles across the education sector and beyond. Alumni frequently secure positions in academic advising, admissions, residence life, and recruitment. The skills gained in leadership and cultural awareness also allow for successful transitions into non-profit management, finance, and healthcare administration.

Common job titles for graduates include:

Academic Advisor
Assistant Director for Residence Life
Executive Director
Assistant Dean of Admissions
Recruiter
Educational Leader

In addition to the University of South Carolina, alumni have been employed by various institutions and organisations, including Midlands Technical College, Greenville Technical College, Capital One, and the University of Delaware.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Evolution of Higher Education in America
The American College Student
Legal Aspects of Higher Education
Organization, Administration, and Governance of Higher Education
Institutional Assessment in Higher Education
Communications Skills in Counseling

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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Credits

39 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Columbia, United States

Disciplines

School Counselling Higher Education View 278 other Masters in Higher Education in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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Other requirements

General requirements

Official Transcripts
Personal Statement
Resume
2 Letters of Recommendation

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11154 USD / year

≈ 11154 USD / year
Out-of-State

11154 USD / year

≈ 11154 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11154 USD / year

≈ 11154 USD / year

Living costs

Columbia

United States

999 - 1508 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Higher Education and Student Affairs.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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