Higher Education, M.S.

Program Requirements

The Higher Education master’s program requires a minimum of 36 credits, although we encourage students to complete 42 credits and a minimum of 2 years of study as recommended by the Council for the Advancement of Standards. Students can also complete this program in 3-4 years of part-time study, to allow you to work while you learn and gain advancement in your current career.

Students take courses in higher education and student affairs theories, strategies, development, and legal issues. You’ll also choose counseling and diversity electives in close collaboration with faculty and advisors, to align with your personal and professional interests and goals. Coursework areas may include:

  • American Colleges and Universities
  • Multicultural Counseling
  • Research on the College Student
  • Gender and Race in 20th Century Higher Education
  • Public Policy and Higher Education
  • Principles and Practices of Student Affairs Administration

All students will complete intensive practica (internship experiences) at Syracuse University or another local higher education institution. Full time students complete two practica, while part-time students who are working full time in a higher education setting may only be required to complete one practicum. During the practicum, you’ll have a supervisor at the site, and attend practicum seminars facilitated by faculty. Partner institutions that host practicum students include SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, SUNY Upstate Medical University, St. Joseph’s School of Nursing, Onondaga Community College, and Le Moyne College. Students may work in areas such as academic advising, admissions, multicultural affairs, career services, athletics, disability support services, residential life, LGBT resource center, and other offices on campus. Students may also consider applying to the internship programs offered by the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International (ACUHO-I) or the National Orientation Directors Association (NODA).

More information on academic requirements available in the Syracuse University Course Catalog.