Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership
Pursue Your Master’s in Higher Education Leadership 100% Online!Program Overview
Post University’s online master’s in higher education leadership explores what it takes for postsecondary education administrators to be more effective leaders in universities and colleges. With an eye toward current and emerging challenges and issues in higher education, core coursework covers leadership and change management theory, analysis of demographic trends, assessment and evaluation practices, delivery of all aspects of student services, and solving problems of practice.
Through research-based projects and lively class discussions, you will be encouraged to identify and discuss the history, philosophy, and changes in trends in higher education. Coursework for your Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership examines the laws and policies that govern practices within higher education. You will also be given the opportunity to refine your discernment regarding social justice issues and cultural competency in the field. And you will be asked to evaluate and analyze ethical standards related to leading at a university level and the resulting decision-making practices.
The Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership at Post University is designed for individuals interested in administrative and leadership roles within colleges and universities. Offered fully online, this program provides a structured academic experience in a format that is flexible for your schedule. The online format enables participation from diverse geographic regions while maintaining consistent interaction with faculty and peers. This structure supports graduate-level study while allowing you to continue balancing professional and personal commitments.
Curriculum
Total Program: 33 Required Credits
Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership Core Courses: 12 Required Credits
Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership Concentration Courses: 12 Required Credits
Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership Capstone: 9 Required Credits
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
Coursework for your online master’s in higher education leadership is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills for the field. Depending on the concentration you choose, you will explore what it takes to:
- Apply leadership approaches effectively in higher education administration
- Understand and use the policies and laws shaping higher education practices
- Interpret the roles and influences of stakeholders for institutional decision making
- Communicate the changing roles of faculty in postsecondary education
- Define the various functions of student affairs professionals
- Integrate key student development and leadership approaches into student affairs
- Work more effectively with diverse student populations
- Relate concepts of equity, bias, and ethical decision-making to laws governing higher education practices
Concentrations
Online Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership Concentrations
Once you complete the core coursework for your online master’s in higher education leadership, you will have the opportunity to tailor your degree to your specific objectives with one of two relevant concentrations: Administrative Leadership and Students Affairs.
Administrative Leadership
Coursework for this concentration looks into the skills used to serve as a leader and administrator in academic affairs. Learning experiences are designed to help you explore policy, politics, and pressing issues; leadership in administrative services; organizational structure and governance; and the role of faculty in post-secondary education.
Student Affairs
This concentration covers leadership and administration practices required in student affairs. Coursework offers a comprehensive understanding of the adult learner, multiculturalism, student leadership development, and law and ethics.
Sample Courses
Foundations & Emerging Trends in Higher Education
This course introduces students to the historical and philosophical foundations of higher education, as well as emerging trends and current issues facing students, practitioners, and administrators. Coursework focuses on the development of higher education in the United States and explores the relationship between institutions of higher education and society. The emphasis is on the development of the contemporary university juxtaposed against the context of the sociological and economic changes over time. Students will research futurist ideology and create their own visions for the future of education.
The New Post-Secondary Student
This course analyzes trends and issues related to post-secondary students and the effects of those trends and issues on higher education. Student demographic trends will be analyzed in terms of the implications for college recruitment and retention. Strategies for recruitment and retention will be identified along with career service strategies to improve graduation rates and gainful employment. Student financial aid issues will be addressed in relation to the financing of higher education. Aspects of post-secondary student services will be analyzed for applicability to online and traditional higher education models.
Assessment and Evaluation
This course introduces program evaluation and assessment in colleges and universities. An exploration of assessment techniques will be a key focus of this course. Strategies for how such techniques can be used to benefit specific programs and organizations will also be examined. Students will analyze how the roles of planning, evaluation and assessing lead to data driven decision-making. Coursework is focused on performing high-quality program evaluations and assessments.
Leading Change in Higher Education
This course examines and explores leadership and change management theories. Coursework is focused on understanding how organizational structure, as well as transformational learning and systems thinking, impact the creation of a culture that is change-ready. By applying adaptive change strategies, students will practice how to increase impact and capacity in higher education environments to create sustainable and long-lasting change. Students will build a working model of change leadership that supports improvement in a higher education setting. The model will focus on building arguments, use of evidence to support decision-making, needs assessments, cost-benefit analyses, culture, articulating outcomes, and assessment of impact analyses.
The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.
Licensing Disclosure
Licensure and Program Disclosures
The Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership provides the opportunity to prepare for opportunities for leadership within higher education. It is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any educational credential, such as a state teacher’s license or TESOL certification.
Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is ultimately the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice.
Learn about teaching certification requirements through the state departments of education: https://www.ed.gov/contact-us/state-contacts.
“We first want to teach our students who in most cases are in the first third of their professions to continue to cultivate their thinking skills, their ability to really look at the challenges within the educational fields and to be able to utilize that knowledge to help advance them professionally, to help them respond to the needs they see within their organization.”
Ready to Apply?
Ready to Apply?The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.
Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
College (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]
For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.
Graduate Admissions Requirements
Post University maintains consistent graduate admissions standards for students enrolling online or on campus. While individual programs may include additional criteria, all applicants are evaluated using foundational requirements that support academic readiness and program alignment.
Common graduate admissions requirements include:
- Completion of a graduate admissions application
- Submission of official transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions
- Documentation of a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or an approved equivalent
- Participation in an admissions interview or advisory session, if recommended
- Submission of a personal statement, when requested, which may be required for applicants below a specified cumulative grade point average threshold
- Verification of all admissions materials
Graduate admissions requirements may vary by program and learning format. For complete and program-specific requirements, please review:
Why Students Choose Post University
“A few times, I was on multi-week overseas trips, and it was sometimes difficult for me to get online. They were very understanding and very flexible in allowing me to be able to do some work in advance or, in some cases, do some work afterwards to stay on track.”
Tuition & Ways to Save
An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.
With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Ready to take the next steps?
Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.
If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.
Why Post University?
At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.
Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.
Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership?
A master of science in higher education leadership is a graduate degree that examines leadership practices, policy, and administration within postsecondary institutions.
What Could I Do with a Master’s in Higher Education Leadership?
This degree may complement experience in academic or administrative settings by expanding your understanding of institutional leadership, student services, and organizational operations.
Who Should Consider a Master’s in Higher Education Leadership?
Individuals with a bachelor’s degree who are interested in leadership roles within colleges, universities, or related educational organizations may consider this program.
Can I Get a Master’s inHigher Education Leadership Online?
Yes. The Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership at Post University is offered fully online in a format designed to be flexible for your schedule.
How long does it take to complete a master of education?
A master of education (MEd) program typically takes between 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on the program structure and whether you are studying full-time or part-time. Full-time students often finish in about 12 to 18 months, while part-time students may take 2 to 3 years. The duration can also vary based on the number of credit hours required and whether an internship or thesis is part of the curriculum. Some programs offer accelerated options for quicker completion.
The Master of Education (MEd) program at Post University typically takes 20 months to complete. This accelerated program consists of 30 credit hours of coursework. With courses offered in eight-week sessions, students can progress through the program efficiently. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning allows students to balance their studies with work and other commitments, potentially speeding up or extending their completion time based on their individual pace.
Is a Master’s in Higher Education Leadership Worth It?
The value of this degree depends on your academic interests and professional context. For some individuals, it may provide focused graduate-level study related to higher education administration and leadership.
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