M.A. in Higher Education

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates with an M.A. in Higher Education from the University of Arizona are prepared for a wide range of careers in the higher education field:

1. Academic Advisor: Graduates may work as academic advisors, assisting students in navigating academic programs and career pathways.

2. Student Affairs Specialist: Graduates can pursue roles in student affairs, supporting student life, counseling, and extracurricular activities.

3. Admissions Counselor: Graduates may work as admissions counselors, recruiting and evaluating prospective students.

4. Higher Education Administrator: Graduates can take on administrative roles in higher education institutions, overseeing departments or programs.

5. Institutional Researcher: Graduates may work as institutional researchers, analyzing data and conducting studies to inform institutional decision-making.

6. Student Services Coordinator: Graduates can work in student services, coordinating events, programs, and resources for student support.

7. Program Coordinator: Graduates may become program coordinators, managing academic or co-curricular programs within higher education institutions.

8. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, contributing to the development and evaluation of higher education policies.

9. Educational Consultant: Graduates may work as educational consultants, providing expertise and guidance to colleges and universities.

10. Higher Education Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers in higher education research organizations, studying trends and issues in the field.

The M.A. in Higher Education program at the University of Arizona equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. With a focus on theory, practice, and research, graduates are prepared to lead and support initiatives that enhance the student experience and contribute to the advancement of higher education institutions.