M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Program Overview

The M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs at UB is a 42-credit hour program, typically completed over four full-time semesters (two years). A part-time option is also available. The program offers a blend of coursework, practical experience, and personalized mentorship, emphasizing the importance of student development, diversity, and hands-on application of theory. A significant component of the program includes supervised professional experiences (minimum 300 hours) through assistantships, internships, or professional work settings, providing students with valuable real-world exposure and opportunities to refine their skills. The program culminates in a comprehensive exam or a capstone project.

Curriculum: The 42-credit curriculum for the M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs provides a robust foundation in both the administrative and student development aspects of higher education. Required courses typically cover "American Higher Education," "Student Development and Learning," "Student Affairs Administration," "Strategic Planning and Budgeting in Higher Education," "Inclusive Advising and Supporting," "Assessment in Higher Education and Student Affairs," and "Research Methods in Higher Education." Students also complete supervised practice experiences. Elective courses allow for specialization in areas such as community college administration, gender and intersectionality in higher education, management systems and leadership, counseling techniques, career development, and legal aspects of higher education, among others.

Research Focus: The M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs at UB has a strong research component integrated into its professional preparation. While it is a practitioner-focused degree, students engage with scholarly literature and learn research methodologies to inform their practice and contribute to evidence-based decision-making. Faculty within the Graduate School of Education are actively engaged in research that explores a wide range of topics pertinent to higher education and student affairs, including student development theories, diversity and inclusion in higher education, college student activism, Greek life policy, financial aid trends, and the impact of various institutional policies on student outcomes. Students are trained to critically analyze research, apply findings to practice, and often engage in a culminating project that demonstrates their ability to conduct applied research or program evaluation.

Industry Engagement: The M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs program at UB is exceptionally focused on preparing graduates for direct entry and advancement within the higher education industry. The program boasts a robust network of colleges and universities across Western New York and beyond, offering abundant opportunities for assistantships, internships, and employment. These hands-on experiences are a cornerstone of the curriculum, allowing students to apply classroom theories in real campus settings and build crucial professional connections. Faculty often have extensive experience as practitioners and leaders in the field, providing valuable mentorship and insights into current issues and trends. Graduates are highly sought after for a wide range of roles across two-year and four-year institutions, both public and private.

Global Perspective: The M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs at UB inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing the increasingly international nature of higher education and the diverse student populations found on campuses worldwide. The curriculum often incorporates discussions on comparative higher education systems, international student affairs, and the challenges and opportunities of a globalized academic landscape. As a major public research university, UB attracts a diverse international student body and faculty, enriching the learning environment with varied cultural viewpoints and different approaches to student support and institutional management. This exposure prepares graduates to work effectively with diverse student populations and contribute to internationalization efforts within higher education.