M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.Ed. in Higher Education
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.Ed. in Higher Education at UNCW is a flexible, hybrid program meticulously crafted to support both aspiring professionals and those already working in the field. It is designed to prepare individuals for entry or advancement in academic and/or student support roles within colleges and universities. The program aligns with core professional competencies identified by leading organizations like ACPA and NASPA, ensuring graduates are equipped with relevant and in-demand skills. Students benefit from an experienced, award-winning faculty who are active researchers and practitioners. The program offers both main campus (face-to-face) and distance learning (online, synchronous via Zoom) options, often blending these modalities with online work to provide flexibility. It can be completed in two years for full-time students or three to four years for part-time students.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides a robust foundation in the multifaceted landscape of higher education. Core requirements typically include courses such as Research in Education, Foundations of Higher Education, Student Development Theory, Critical Issues in Higher Education, Evaluation & Assessment in Higher Education, Legal Issues in Higher Education, Social Justice Topics in Higher Education, and an Introduction to Higher Education Practice. Students also engage in a culminating project, often action research, which allows them to apply their knowledge to solve a specific problem within a higher education institution. The program's design ensures a comprehensive understanding of historical events, equity, funding, and data-driven decision-making practices, alongside essential skills in academic writing, research, and oral presentation.
Research Focus: UNCW's R2 classification underscores a strong commitment to research, which is deeply embedded in the M.Ed. in Higher Education program. The curriculum emphasizes the development of research skills through dedicated coursework in assessment and research methods. Faculty mentors work closely with students to design and implement culminating projects that often involve applied research to address real-world challenges in higher education. Faculty expertise spans various critical areas, such as college student development, social justice, law and policy in higher education, and assessment, all contributing to a research-rich environment. The program aims to produce leaders who can utilize research to inform strategic planning, policy analysis, and ultimately, enhance student access and success, particularly for those from less advantaged backgrounds.
Industry Engagement: The M.Ed. program at UNCW boasts significant industry engagement, crucial for preparing professionals for the higher education sector. It maintains strong partnerships with academic and student support offices across the UNCW campus, creating numerous internship and graduate assistantship opportunities for students. These applied learning experiences provide students with meaningful opportunities to practice administrative and leadership work, conduct assessment or research-based projects, and develop educational or social programming within various units of higher education institutions. The program has an excellent track record of placing students in positions at colleges and universities both regionally and nationally, a testament to its strong connections and practical focus.
Global Perspective: The Watson College of Education and UNCW as a whole are committed to fostering a global perspective. While the M.Ed. in Higher Education primarily prepares students for the U.S. higher education landscape, the curriculum and faculty expertise often incorporate international perspectives on higher education trends, policies, and student populations. For instance, courses might discuss global trends affecting higher education, the impact of internationalization, and how different nations approach postsecondary education. The university's broader strategic goal to "Create an educational environment that prepares our students to be global citizens" implicitly enriches the learning experience for future higher education leaders, encouraging them to consider the diverse cultural and international contexts that shape the student experience and institutional operations. This global understanding is vital for navigating an increasingly interconnected higher education world.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Higher Education from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) prepares graduates for diverse and impactful leadership and administrative roles within colleges and universities. This degree is designed to cultivate professionals who understand the complex dynamics of postsecondary institutions, from student development to institutional policy. With a strong emphasis on practical application and a curriculum aligned with professional competencies, UNCW graduates are well-equipped to contribute significantly to the academic and student success of higher education environments.
Academic Advisor: These professionals guide students through their academic journeys, helping them select courses, understand degree requirements, explore career paths, and navigate university policies to ensure timely graduation and success.
Student Affairs Professional (e.g., Residential Life, Student Activities, Orientation): Graduates can work in various student affairs functional areas, such as managing residence halls, planning student events and leadership programs, or coordinating new student orientation, focusing on student development and campus engagement.
Admissions Counselor/Director: These roles involve recruiting prospective students, evaluating applications, conducting outreach events, and communicating institutional value to potential applicants to meet enrollment goals.
Career Services Professional: Graduates assist students and alumni with career exploration, resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, job search strategies, and connecting them with employers and internship opportunities.
Financial Aid Advisor/Coordinator: These individuals help students and families understand financial aid options, complete applications, and manage their educational expenses, ensuring access to higher education.
Registrar's Office Staff/Assistant Registrar: Professionals in the registrar's office manage student academic records, course registration, transfer credits, graduation audits, and ensure compliance with academic policies.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Program Coordinator/Manager: Graduates with a focus on social justice can work to develop and implement programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across campus, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff.
Institutional Research Analyst: Utilizing the research and assessment skills gained, graduates can work in institutional research offices, collecting and analyzing data on student demographics, enrollment trends, retention rates, and program effectiveness to inform strategic decision-making.
Alumni Relations/Development Officer: These roles involve fostering relationships with alumni, organizing events, and fundraising to support university initiatives, scholarships, and endowments.
Program Coordinator/Manager (Academic Departments/Centers): Graduates can manage specific academic programs, learning centers (e.g., writing center, tutoring center), or specialized support services within a university department or college, overseeing operations, budgets, and student support.
