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The world of higher education is changing dramatically.
With increasing numbers of students enrolling in degree programs over the next decade, the field of higher education is becoming both more complex and competitive.
Higher education offers countless opportunities for professionals with strong leadership skills and expertise. There are so many roles to fill - from the many administrative and management jobs to the plethora of careers in student services.
A master’s degree in Higher Education will give you the training you need for any higher education career you want to land in.
Accredited Online College Programs
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
What kind of higher education degree should you get?
Do you want to work in administration? Career services? Enrollment management? The answers to those questions should in large part determine the program you enroll in. There are lots of options out there, with emphases in a variety of areas. And there are also more broadly-based programs that will prepare you for many different jobs in higher ed.
Online education is also a great option if you want to continue working while you study. All the programs on this ranking offer courses online, so you’ll be able to balance your work and personal commitments with your studies. These are accredited, rigorous programs which will be highly respected by employers.
If you’d like to learn more about online education, check out the College Choice ranking of the Best Online Colleges.
How much money do people make with a higher education degree?
There are so many different positions in higher education - with a wide range of salaries. Your take-home pay will be determined by a range of factors like geography, work experience, and - of course - the institution you work for.
But there is high demand for professionals with the skills to support, manage, and lead the many operations associated with colleges and universities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that jobs for post-secondary educational administrators will grow by 10 percent by the year 2026. And the median pay for postsecondary education administrators is currently reported as $92,360 annually.
What can you do with a degree in higher education?
With a master’s in higher education, you’ll be ready to take on wide range of entry-level and middle-management positions in higher education. Broadly speaking, careers tend to lie in either administration or student affairs.
Administration can include managing finances, fundraising, or human resources - among many, many other possibilities. A career in student affairs puts you in direct contact with students through jobs like career or academic advisement, admissions, and enrollment.
With a master’s in higher education, the sky’s the limit - up to the very top leadership positions. Common job titles include:
Financial aid counselor
Development and fundraising officer
Alumni relations coordinator
Academic records specialist
Assistant director of marketing and communication
Assistant dean of admissions
What are the requirements for a degree in higher education?
All the degree programs on our ranking are designed for adults who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Apart from that basic standard, each program has its own specific admission requirements.
Most programs are designed for both recent (or current) undergraduates and professional adults with experience in a two- or four-year college or university. Most admissions committees also ask for a statement of your professional goals and objectives, to make sure that the program is right for you.
And of course, you’ll need to submit all your undergraduate transcripts and possibly GRE scores.
What are the best higher education degrees?
At College Choice, our goal is to help you locate a program that will deliver both academic excellence and a high return on investment.
To accomplish that, our team of researchers takes into account a variety of factors - like national reputation scores, tuition rates, early career earnings of graduates, and wherever possible, student satisfaction surveys. We use all that data to calculate our College Choice score and then lay it all out for you in an easy-to-read manner.
And all the schools on our ranking are regionally accredited, so you don’t have to worry about any fly-by-night institutions making their way onto our rankings.
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Georgetown University
Washington, DC
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC, Georgetown University is a historic, private, Catholic research university. The school, which U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top 20 national universities in the country, is comprised of nine undergraduate and graduate schools. Georgetown’s School of Continuing Education provides hands-on education that goes well beyond the classroom.
Program Features
Georgetown’s School of Continuing Education offers an online Master of Professional Studies in Higher Education Administration. This practical, applied degree program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge to take on increasing responsibility in the field of higher education.The curriculum provides both a broad view of the UShigher education landscape, and the skills to effect change. Courses include:
Ethics
American Higher Education
Organization and Administration in Higher Education
Notables
Georgetown’s MPS in Higher Education Administration is a 33-credit program comprised of six required courses (including a capstone project) and five elective courses. The program is available online (as well as on campus) and you’ll be able to set the pace of your studies, taking from two to five years to complete the program. Georgetown’s program offers a high degree of flexibility, including two possible focus areas in Administration and Student Affairs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,784
Out-of-state
$59,784
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,672
Out-of-state
$54,672
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
20,935
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Boston University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Situated along the Charles River in Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore and Allston neighborhood, Boston University is one of the largest private research universities in the country. The university’s combination of excellence in teaching and research consistently places them at the top of national rankings. BU’s School of Education currently sits at #34 nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
BU’s Wheelock College of Education & Human Development offers an online MEd in Education Leadership & Policy Studies with a concentration in Higher Education Administration. If you’re looking for a program with a social justice lens, BU’s program is a great choice. The program develops culturally competent leaders by reflecting on the contemporary higher education landscape. You’ll engage in theory-to-practice learning in areas that include student life, financial aid, admissions, career advisement, and more. Courses include:
Perspectives on Higher Education
Contemporary Issues in Higher Education Administration
Strategic Planning and Administration
Notables
BU’s MEd: Higher Education Administration concentration is a 36-credit program comprised of nine required, four-credit courses. Courses are delivered in accelerated, 7-week terms so students move quickly through their degree requirements. And the program is set up to be manageable for working students, with asynchronous classes, flexible live sessions, and three start-dates throughout the year – so you can begin when you’re ready.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
36,104
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
A private research university located in Boston, MA, Northeastern University first opened its doors in 1898. The school ranks among America’s top 50 national universities, according to U.S. News and World Report. And Northeastern’s distinctive graduate education programs prepare educators for leadership with courses that bring to bear more than a decade of experiential learning expertise.
Program Features
Northeastern’s College of Professional Studies offers an online MEd in Higher Education Administration. Students gain a 360-degree understanding of the structure, governance, and operation of higher education organization in the U.S. This is a great program if you really want to put your knowledge to the test – Northeastern employs an experiential learning model that encourages students to apply theoretical knowledge and examine the results. Courses include:
Education as an Advanced Field of Study
Culture, Equity, Power, and Influence
The Landscape of Higher Education
Notables
Northeastern’s MEd in Higher Education Administration is a 45-quarter-credit program comprised of five required courses, five electives, and a capstone course. One unique feature of Northeastern’s program is the possibility to take part in up to two international field study experiences. These require on-site instruction in the region of study combined with a professional research project or presentation.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,500
Out-of-state
$56,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,801
Out-of-state
$25,801
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
28,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located on the North Shore of Long Island, NY, Stony Brook University is a public research university in the State University of New York system and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Stony Brook is known for its outstanding graduate programs in a number of fields, and their online programs have also earned national acclaim.
Program Features
Stony Brook University’s School of Professional Development offers an online MA in Higher Education Administration that will provide the academic preparation to become a leader in the field. As a student, you’ll experience a curriculum that aligns ACPA and NASPA professional competencies. And courses combine aspects of theory and practice within the changing landscape of American higher education, including:
Foundations of Higher Education Administration
Survey of College Student Development Theory
Leadership in Higher Education
Notables
Stony Brook University’s online MA in Higher Education Administration is a 36-credit program comprised of six core courses and six electives. You’ll have the opportunity to take part in a practicum (as well as an advanced practicum) in higher education, which will give you professional experience prior to graduation. And with a very competitive tuition rate, Stony Brook’s program offers a high level of return on investment for your tuition dollar.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
26,608
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Rochester University is a private research university that U.S. News and World Report ranks at #34 among national universities. The Warner School of Education takes part in that reputation, with programs uniquely designed for practitioners or researchers who participate in groundbreaking studies and grant-funded projects in a variety of areas.
Program Features
The University of Rochester’s Warner School offers a Master of Science in Educational Administration. Designed for students beginning or advancing a career in higher education, the program provides a foundation in institutional culture as well as the purposes and ideals of higher education. You’ll gain the skills – and develop the creativity – to inspire and lead students and institutions to a higher level of thinking and thoughtful change. There are three options for specialization:
Higher Education Administration
Student Affairs Administration
Student Affairs Administration and Career Advising
Notables
The University of Rochester’s online MS in Educational Administration is a remarkably customizable 36-credit program with a mix of core/specialization courses and electives. You’ll take part in a supervised internship and culminating experience to develop and demonstrate your skills. And you’ll also be able to complete an Advanced Certificate in Program Evaluation or Online Teaching. If you’re looking for a program with a lot of options, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,276
Out-of-state
$58,276
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,779
Out-of-state
$46,779
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
12,039
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in Clinton, MS, Mississippi College is a private, Christian university and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention, MC ranks at #32 among regional universities in the South, according to U.S. News and World Report. And its online programs make MC’s programs accessible to students nationwide.
Program Features
Mississippi College offers an online Master of Higher Education Administration for those beginning or continuing a career in the field of higher education. MC’s program provides a strong grounding in general administrative theory and practice as they pertain to the higher education landscape. Courses are highly interactive, and students have opportunities to put theory to practice in hands-on assignments. Courses include:
Basic Understandings in Higher Education Administration
Law and Higher Education
Finance in Higher Education
Notables
Mississippi College’s online Master of Higher Education Administration is a 27-credit program comprised of seven required courses and two practicum experiences. Online courses at MC are designed with the busy schedule of working adults in mind. If you’re looking for a hands-on higher education administration program with a Christian focus, this may be a good fit for you – and the school’s affordable tuition makes it a highly competitive degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,060
Out-of-state
$12,060
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
4,250
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in the village of Hampstead on New York’s Long Island, Hofstra University is a highly-ranked, private research university. Hofstra’s 11,000 students can choose from 160 undergraduate and 165 graduate programs of study, including several programs offered entirely online. The school’s online graduate education programs rank at #76 nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
Hofstra University’s School of Education offers an online M.S.Ed. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies program that prepares students for careers in a variety of aspects of higher education. This interdisciplinary program is for students from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds and provides a comprehensive understanding of leadership issues in a higher education setting. Courses include:
Student Affairs Leadership
Governance in Higher Education
Legal and Ethical Issues
Notables
Hofstra University’s M.S.Ed. in Higher Education is a 36-credit program comprised of nine required courses, two leadership electives and a capstone course. Offered in asynchronous format, the online program employs a cohort model, so you’ll be able to build strong relationships with fellow students as you move through the program together. And if you’re interested in pursuing a doctoral degree, 30 credits of the MEd transfer directly to Hofstra’s 79-credit Ed.D.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,265
Out-of-state
$50,265
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,180
Out-of-state
$27,180
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
10,243
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in Statesboro, GA, Georgia Southern University is the largest comprehensive university south of Atlanta. The university takes a hands-on, practical approach to learning and employs dedicated faculty that are committed to student success. Georgia Southern’s nationally-ranked College of Education offers online graduate programs that rank among the best in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
Georgia Southern’s School of Education offers an online MEd in Higher Education that will expose you to the full institutional and social context of the American higher education system. You’ll explore the concepts of administration, law, finance, and human governance as they apply to higher education. And faculty are dedicated to connecting with students, helping them become expert practitioners and scholars. Courses include:
American Higher Education
Higher Education Administration
Higher Education Law
Notables
Georgia Southern’s MEd in Higher Education is a 36-credit program comprised of nine required courses (this includes a practicum experience) and three electives. The coursework provides the foundation of the program, and hands-on experiences make connections between what you learn and how it applies to the real world. You can complete the program on a full- or part-time basis, begin in any semester, and complete your courses either entirely online or in a hybrid format.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$19,890
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
27,076
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University is a highly innovative, private technological university. The school has pioneered technology-enhanced education, and its cooperative education program guarantees that students graduate with extensive work experience. Drexel is a leader in online learning, with several programs – including graduate education – ranking among the best in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
Drexel’s School of Education offers a Master of Science in Higher Education which features a strong academic program in a convenient online format. The experiential curriculum will give you a deep understanding of the world of higher education. And you’ll be equipped with practical skills using the latest learning technologies and strategies, research, software applications, and management systems. You can also enroll in one of seven optional secondary concentrations, including:
Community College Administration and Leadership
Educational Policy
Enrollment Management
Global and International Education
Notables
Drexel’s MS in Higher Education is a 45-quarter-credit program comprised of 13 courses, a capstone project, and a Higher Education co-op experience. For those looking for a highly practical program that will give you useful skills to help you accelerate your career progress, Drexel’s program is worth serious consideration. Rooted in practice, Drexel’s program aims to train leaders that will change the field of higher education for the better.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,766
Out-of-state
$54,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
23,216
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Situated in East Lansing, MI, Michigan State University is a large public research university that ranks among the top 100 national universities in the country. MSU’s graduate programs have a reputation for being some of the best in the nation – and U.S. News and World Report has ranked the College of Education #1 in the nation for higher education administration.
Program Features
MSU’s College of Education offers a Master of Arts in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education that promotes professional development for those working in a variety of higher education settings. The curriculum covers areas such as higher education policy, curricular development, and budget and finance. And you’ll also learn how to serve students in contexts beyond the higher education sector. Courses include:
Inquiry in Postsecondary Education
Leadership and Organization Development
Administration in Higher Education
Notables
MSU’s MA in Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education is a 30-credit program comprised of two core courses, eight electives, and a final project connecting theory to practice. This program features a remarkably high level of course flexibility, so you can customize the program to your own interests and career goals. And with MSU’s eminently reasonable tuition, you’ll gain a top-ranked education without breaking your bank.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,966
Out-of-state
$41,290
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,714
Out-of-state
$38,638
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
49,659
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
University of Houston
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
The University of Houston is a major public research university and the flagship institution of the University of Houston System. The school is situated on a sprawling campus in southeast Houston, and offers many nationally ranked programs through its 14 academic colleges. Currently, UH’s College of Education is home to one of the top five online graduate education programs in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
The University of Houston’s College of Education offers an online MEd in Higher Education that prepares students to work in student affairs and administrative areas in postsecondary institutions. Designed to help close the leadership gap in higher education, UH’s program equips students to thrive in the diverse, fast-paced, and often uncertain context of colleges and universities. Courses include:
Leadership and Change
Critical Issues in Higher Education
American Higher Education
Notables
The University of Houston’s MEd in Higher Education is a 36-credit program that adheres to the recommendations of the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education and the Association for the Study of Higher Education. Program tuition is competitive – and you’ll be able to choose an internship that will expose you to new administrative areas in higher education and help clarify your career goals.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,685
Out-of-state
$20,877
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,713
Out-of-state
$17,857
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
47,031
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park,
4 years
Campus
Overview
Headquartered in University Park, PA, Penn State World Campus is the online campus of Pennsylvania State University. With a mission to extend the school’s highly regarded programs to nontraditional students, Penn State World Campus is home to an online graduate education program which U.S. News and World Report ranks at #8 nationally.
Program Features
Penn State World Campus offers an online MEd in Higher Education. You’ll learn from full-time faculty, which include practitioners with significant administrative experience. And you’ll gain a foundational understanding of the careers, policies, administration, history, and organization of postsecondary education. Offered collaboratively through Penn State’s Center for the Study of Higher Education and the Department of Education Policy Studies, the program has four emphasis areas:
Administration
Student Engagement
Institutional Research
Fundraising Leadership
Notables
Penn State World Campus’ online MEd in Higher Education is a 30-credit program comprised of nine credits each of required coursework, electives, and focus area courses, as well as a capstone. You’ll be able to use your electives to design your own program of study – and you’ll benefit from a Penn State World Campus education, which has a stellar reputation for both academic rigor and flexibility for working students.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No
#13 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Chartered in 1869, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a flagship public research university and the oldest and largest in the University of Nebraska system. Home to a number of firsts, including the first undergraduate psychology laboratory, and the birthplace of ecological study, UNL is a leader in higher education. Their online graduate education program currently ranks at #12 nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
UNL’s College of Education and Human Sciences offers an online Master of Arts in Educational Administration – Higher Education. This program is designed specifically for those who are already employed at a college or university, and are seeking to advance their careers in administration. You’ll learn from UNL’s dedicated, full-time faculty, UNL administrators, and affiliate faculty who have expertise in administration. Courses include:
Administrative Theory
Higher Education in America
Higher Education Environments
Notables
UNL’s online MA in Education Administration is a 36-credit program that is comprised of nine required courses and three electives. Part-time students can complete the degree in four regular semesters and two summer sessions – or you can take longer if needed. The program starts in the fall or spring semester, and UNL’s online courses are both highly interactive and offered asynchronously so you can work on your own time.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,770
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,138
Out-of-state
$17,928
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
24,431
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located near Houston in the town of Huntsville, TX, Sam Houston State University is a public university and a member of the Texas State University System. The school offers more than 20 highly affordable online bachelor’s and graduate degrees, and U.S. News and World Report ranks its online Graduate Education program among the best in the country.
Program Features
SHSU offers a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration for those entering or continuing a career in higher education administration. The program specializes in a comprehensive, well-rounded understanding of academic and student affairs. And SHSU’s renowned faculty share years of experience in key areas of importance in higher education administration. Graduates will be prepared for administrative roles in a variety of educational settings as well as for doctoral studies. Courses include:
History and Organization of Higher Education
Contemporary Issues in Higher Education
Leadership in Education
Notables
SHSU’s MA in Higher Education Administration is a 30-36 credit program which may be completed with either a thesis or a practicum. You can also opt to pursue the Academic Advising Certificate or the Higher Education Assessment and Institutional Research Certificate as part of your degree program. One of the few online Higher Education master’s programs with a thesis component, this is a great choice for those interested in an academic career.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,648
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,108
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
21,612
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located on the banks of the Ohio River in Louisville, KY, the University of Louisville is a historic public research university and a member of the Kentucky State University system. The university is committed to extending the accessibility of its high-quality degrees. Several of the U of L’s online programs – including graduate education programs – rank among the best of their kind, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
The University of Louisville offers an online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration that will help you meet your career goals. The program is designed to help students navigate – and conquer – challenges in higher education. You’ll gain skills in leadership that will propel you to top positions in university settings. The program allows students to customize their degree through four concentrations:
Administration
Teaching & Learning
Policy & Equity
Sport Administration
Notables
The University of Louisville’s online MA in Higher Education Administration is a 31-36 credit program comprised of 21 credits of required coursework, and 12+ credits in your chosen specialization. The Sport Administration concentration does include a thesis option. Online courses at the U of L are delivered in eight-week courses and intensive weekend course options, so you’ll be able to earn your degree in two years.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,174
Out-of-state
$28,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,524
Out-of-state
$27,638
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
22,140
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO
4 years
Online
Overview
Located in Fort Collins, CO, Colorado State University is a large public research university that offers more than 150 degrees through its eight colleges. CSU is a research powerhouse, and students gain hands-on education through field experiences, laboratory research, and internships. CSU is also a leader in online learning, and U.S. News and World Report ranks their online graduate education program among the best in the country.
Program Features
CSU Online offers an online Master of Science in Student Affairs in Higher Education program which teaches expertise in higher education administration, communication, and diversity issues. You’ll learn professional competencies from faculty who are both scholars and practitioners. Courses cover a wide range of topics you’ll need to master for an administrative career on college and university campuses, including:
Financial aid
Admissions
Student activities
Advising
Notables
CSU Online’s MS in Student Affairs in Higher Education is a 45-credit program which is comprised of courses introducing you to all facets of the profession – as well as two practicum experiences and a portfolio. Students work with an advisor to find an internship site that best fits their career goals. And courses are offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer, so you can choose how many and which courses fit your work and family schedule. The program takes three to five years to complete.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,400
Out-of-state
$8,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
35%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
10,844
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in Lubbock, TX, Texas Tech University is a public research university and the flagship institution of the Texas Tech University system. The university has a deep commitment to attracting and retaining top-notch students and award-winning faculty. Currently, Texas Tech ranks in the top 100 public schools nationally, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Program Features
The College of Education at Texas Tech offers an online MEd in Higher Education for those seeking middle management and leadership positions at US colleges and universities. The program is designed for those working in, or with direct access to, either a public or private higher education institution. You’ll develop skills to become a collaborative, practitioner-based professional with the ability to take on challenges in higher education. Courses include:
Higher Education Research Design
History of Higher Education
Student Services in Higher Education
Notables
Texas Tech’s online MEd in Higher Education is a 36-credit program comprised of 11 required courses and a capstone project – all delivered in an online, cohort-based format. As a student, you’ll also complete a 150-hour internship. The program takes two years to complete, and there is a mandatory, one-day orientation on Texas Tech’s campus Lubbock, TX prior to the start of the first fall semester.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,935
Out-of-state
$21,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,956
Out-of-state
$15,136
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
40,542
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located near Lake Michigan’s western shore, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a public research university and a member of the University Wisconsin system. Consisting of 14 schools and colleges, including a School of Education that is Wisconsin’s premier school of urban education, UWM prepares students to be leaders in their field.
Program Features
UWM’s School of Education offers an online Master of Science in Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Administration for those wanting to make substantial social changes in the climate of urban higher education. UWM’s program is equity-focused and offers a clear understanding of how to create inclusive policies, practices and environments. You’ll also learn essential research and leadership skills to put theory to practice. Students choose between two tracks:
Adult and Continuing Education
Higher Education
Notables
UWM’s online MS in Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Administration program is a 33-credit program comprised of 15 credits of core courses and 18 credits of electives. UWM’s program offers a remarkable degree of flexibility for students, both through course choice and course delivery. You’ll be able to take courses entirely online, or in a blended online/face-to-face environment. And class sizes are kept small so you’ll be able to connect with other students and faculty.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,091
Out-of-state
$19,956
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,701
Out-of-state
$24,132
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
23,829
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
4 years
Online
Overview
Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Capella University is a regionally accredited, for-profit, online university. Capella has over 40,000 students enrolled in more than 45 degree programs. Capella University offers highly-applicable, professionally-aligned programs that help lead to career success, with a focus on competency-based education.
Program Features
Capella’s School of Education offers a Master of Science in Higher Education that will prepare you to lead in the fields of adult and post-secondary education. You’ll learn leadership and administration skills, as well as learning theory for diverse learners. And you’ll be supported by expert faculty that are there to help you reach your goals. The Higher Education program offers two specializations: Adult Education and Higher Education Leadership and Administration
Notables
Capella’s MS in Higher Education comprises four core courses and several courses in your chosen specialization (some specializations also offer concentrations).
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,784
Out-of-state
$14,784
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,716
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#20 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Higher Education Degrees
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Overview
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Appalachian State University is a public comprehensive university that U.S. News and World Report ranks among the top ten regional universities in the South. The school was originally founded as a teacher’s college in 1899, and the Reich College of Education continues the tradition of excellence, with innovative instruction and mentoring.
Program Features
Appalachian State University’s Reich College of Education offers an online Master of Arts in Higher Education which explores the higher education environment across a range of professional perspectives. As student, you’ll gain a foundation for encouraging student growth and a deep understanding of the landscape of higher education. You’ll also gain a strategic mindset for the promotion of educational possibilities. There are two track options:
The Community College and University Leadership track
The Adult and Developmental Education track
Notables
Appalachian State’s MA in Higher Education is a 36-credit program comprised of 12 credits of core courses and 24 credits in the chosen track. And you’ll have the choice to complete your program with either a thesis or six credits of electives based on your career goals. This online program blends synchronous and asynchronous coursework, utilizing a range of engaging online platforms that allow students to interact with faculty and other students.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,849
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$19,849
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
20,641
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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