Whether you work in higher education already or want to move into the field, an online master’s in higher education is a catalyst for many exciting careers.
Evan Thompson is a careers writer with BestColleges, focusing on career trends, job transitions, and work insights. He has a BA in communication and a specialization in digital journalism from Central Washington University. Prior to joining the team ...
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What You'll Learn with a Online Master's in Higher Education and Career Potential
With so many career paths available to graduates, it's no wonder that thousands of students enroll in online master's programs in higher education each year. Whether a student wishes to work in academics, student services or research, roles exist to help master's students find a perfect fit for their interests, passions and career aspirations. Learn more about what you can expect as you earn your master's in higher education online, including an outline of coursework, career and salary potential after graduation, and see which colleges are providing the best value for students interested in online higher education master's programs to help make your college choice.
What Can I Learn in an Online Master's in Higher Education Program?
Students interested in studying higher education in graduate school have some options in terms of degree path. Understanding which online master's degree fits your professional aspirations is an important part of the college search. Here are the distinctions:
Master of Arts, Higher Education (MA) – Often culminating with a thesis, the MA degree path focuses on professional classroom teaching strategies for higher education and academia.
Master of Education, Higher Education (MEd) – An MEd focuses less on subject-specific skills, and more on the evaluation of higher education as a practice. Students declare their specialization, in this case higher education, upon application.
Both master's degree paths in higher education prepare students for roles in postsecondary settings. By equipping them with skills related to programmatic development, budgetary oversight, leadership, student affairs and working with people of varied backgrounds, students typically walk away with the following skills upon graduation:
In-depth understanding of the higher education system and postsecondary processes
Insight into teaching core concepts at the upper level
Data and research-based solutions for helping students learn
How to use data to determine the success of higher education programs
What common courses are offered in an MHA program?
Though all online master's programs in higher education will provide unique coursework and areas of focus, here is a glimpse into the type of coursework and classes you can expect to encounter while pursuing a master's degree in higher education.
Student Success Best Practices
This course introduces learners to the current student landscape and includes discussions and readings on how to adequately serve an ever-growing population of diverse degree seekers. Other topics explored include the planning, design, and management of student services, legal requirements and how to connect programs to student success.
Financial Management of Resources
Recognizing that many university systems experience budgetary constraints, this class takes a look at how higher educational professionals can expertly manage budgets, make use of incoming funds, oversee the financial and strategic planning processes and encourage innovative ways of conducting fundraising throughout the university community.
The Admissions Process
For students who hope to work in the admissions department upon graduation, this class begins by providing an overview of the current admissions landscape before diving into current issues, questions of access and ensuring equity and how to develop the soundest strategy for deciding which students to admit.
Using Data to Drive Decision-Making
Because many big decisions made within higher education administration rely on the review of data, this course introduces students to questions about how data can be best utilized, how to effectively collect data in their roles and which technologies can best help with this process. Students also learn how to communicate their findings and translate raw data into forms that are digestible by the wider university body.
What exams or projects should I expect?
Before graduation, many online master's programs in higher education require students to complete a significant thesis comprised of independent research surrounding the higher education landscape or to engage in a comprehensive capstone project. These projects often examine a specific issue or topic within higher education and provide researched solutions. Additionally, schools may require certain teaching licenses or certifications before a degree is awarded.
What specializations are available in a master's in higher education program?
Educational Leadership
Designed for the student who plans to move into the upper echelons of university administration, this specialization reviews issues surrounding educational policy, ethical practices, leadership skills, and how to encourage and support diversity from the top down.
Student Engagement
For degree seekers planning to work directly with students in either an academic or administrative capacity, this specialization focuses on best practices for engaging students and helping them stay involved throughout their college careers.
Instructional Design and Technology
Many students working towards an online master's in higher education hope to use their skills in curriculum development and technology to design programs of study that meet the demands of the 21st century. Common classes include principles of design within online education, educational technology issues, and best technology practices.
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What Can I do with a Master's in Higher Education Degree?
Given that the field of higher education covers a significant number of university departments and offices, completing an online master's in higher education can open the door to many different roles within the higher education system. Check for those that suit your individual personality, offer the work/life balance you require, and have appealing salary and growth potential.
Director of International Student Services
Working with other members of the administrative body, these professionals walk alongside international learners to ensure their needs are met both before and during their time at school. Along with their international student services team, directors oversee the process for securing international student visas, help new learners acclimate to both life and school in a different country, arrange language classes (if needed) and ensure they settle into the campus community. International student services specializations are not common, but students may be able to find individual classes that touch on this topic, or they can focus their internship in this area.
Director of Student Affairs
A perfect role for the professional who enjoys working in many different parts of campus life, the Director of Student Affairs position typically oversees activities ranging from freshman orientation and student clubs and organizations to Greek life. They manage large budgets and often have many people who report to them. They may also be required to carry out some disciplinary actions, depending on the individual school. Students can often find student affairs specializations under the higher education master's degree umbrella.
Admissions Director
Leading a team of admissions specialists, directors of these departments oversee the admissions process for incoming students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. In addition to monitoring historical admissions data, these professionals also work to ensure the student body continues growing in terms of academic potential, diversity, and all-around preparedness for the rigors of college. They may partner with high schools to identify suitable candidates, or travel to various schools to discuss their college. Many higher education programs offer admissions specializations for learners pursuing this path.
Recruiting Specialist
Working under the admissions department umbrella, recruiting specialists travel around the region – or in some cases the country – finding suitable candidates for the university and encouraging them to apply. Some recruitment is done on a generic basis, while others focus on students with particular skills in areas of academics or sports. When not on the road, recruitment specialists spend their time following up with potential students and their families and overseeing the design of marketing materials to be used at recruitment events.
Research Director
Research directorships often appeal to higher education students who want to work in both academics and administrative affairs. In concert with professors and researchers, these professionals oversee the development of research in each department, create research objectives, oversee the departmental research budget and ensure laboratories and other research areas have the tools and supplies needed. They also collect data about the effectiveness of research conducted at their site as evidence of important work being done.
Professional Organizations
Students and graduates alike can derive benefits from membership in a higher education professional organization. Several options exist often provide opportunities for networking, professional development and other perks. Some of those within the world of higher education include:
AACRAO maintains a robust membership of more than 11,000 professionals in this line of work and provides services such as events and training, research and publications, advocac, and an active jobs board.
AAUA has existed since 1970 and continues working to support individuals in higher education administration. The Association does this by providing an annual awards program, journal, regional and national meetings and opportunities for professional development.
With an active roster of members spanning 1,900 colleges and universities, NACUBO is a leader in the field. The organization provides conferences, workshops, e-learning, podcasts, research, publications and advocacy.
How Much Can I Make with a Career in Higher Education?
While earning your master's degree in higher education isn't a direct guarantee for job placement, there are statistics to back up the idea that a degree could boost your career and salary potential. But especially in the higher education industry, jobs may require additional licensing, certification or training beyond your master's degree. Salary data below is based on a earning a Master's of Education and averaged, meaning numbers vary by position, experience and location.
When reviewing pay for common higher education positions, grad students should remember that salaries depend largely the level of degree attained. Unless they have significantly more experience, individuals with bachelor's degrees in education tend to earn less than their peers with master's degrees.
Online Master's in Higher Education Program Accreditation
Discussing accreditation often isn't as interesting as talking about research areas, available coursework or student services, but it is an important factor in picking a great online master's program in higher education. Online master's in higher education degrees that receive programmatic accreditation submit to a rigorous evaluation by an independent accrediting body. This body sets standards related to how the program prepares graduates for higher education roles, how its services set learners up for success, and whether the curriculum adequately covers relevant materials.
Within the world of online master's programs for higher education, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation serves as the main accrediting agency. Students should pay attention to proper institutional and programmatic accreditation, as attending schools that meet accreditation standards makes it easier for them to transfer credits, compete for jobs and, if necessary, receive licensure.
How to Pay for a Master's in Higher Education Degree
Even if a student gets into a top online master's in education program, many still feel concern over cost of the program. Learners can draw from numerous sources to lessen the overall financial burden. Always check with your college learn about available institutional funding, and research scholarship opportunities from outside funding groups such as nonprofits, foundations, and state/local governments.
Other institutions, such as the University of Kansas, provide graduate assistantships to cover costs. Students still lacking the funding needed after exhausting all scholarship, grant, and assistantship options often turn to federal student loans to cover the remaining portion, which starts by filling out a FAFSA form.
Online Master's in Higher Education Programs
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#1 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Based in Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Along with in-person programs, the school delivers online graduate programs across many different fields. Students interested in higher education careers benefit from the accessibility of the master of arts in higher education.
Enrollees can receive academic advising from higher education faculty members. The online higher education program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy learners. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require 1-2 years to complete their master's program.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need qualify for federal grants and loans. The school reports that 47% of enrollees take out loans. In addition, the institution reports that 70% of its learners obtain financial aid to fund their education.
Appalachian State University Facts:
Total Programs: 142
Number of Online Programs: 26
Number of Online Students: 4,490
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
19,280
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from Florida International University. The public institution's academic offerings include 31 online master's programs. Degree-seekers can enroll in a variety of master's programs, including a master of science in higher education administration. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online higher education program's scheduling flexibility.
In addition to core coursework, learners complete advanced classes in higher education. Students who plan to pursue specialized careers can complete practical learning experiences aligning with their professional goals. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's in higher education. For exact application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can speak with an admissions advisor.
The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution charges Florida residents an average graduate tuition rate of $8,912, and out-of-state students pay an average of $21,393 for graduate tuition. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. The school reports that 90% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,711
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
#3 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers alike find many program options available to them at Tony Brook University. Students can pursue many of the school's programs remotely or in person. The institution's master of arts in higher education administration prepares distance learners to succeed in higher education careers.
People who are new to the field and those with established higher education careers can benefit from the graduate program. The higher education master's program offers a rigorous curriculum with advanced classes to prepare graduates for higher-level roles in the field. The school offers students access to faculty mentorship and career counseling.
The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners often apply for fellowships to fund their graduate education.
Stony Brook University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 79%
Students Receiving Loans: 37%
Total Master's Programs: 82
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
26,814
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Distance learners at Sam Houston State University can pursue a variety of respected degrees, including a master's in higher education. A public institution located in Huntsville, Texas, the university enrolls 11,475 students in its distance learning programs. Online classes are ideal for learners with busy schedules.
While completing the master of arts in higher education administration, degree-seekers fulfill core requirements and take advanced higher education courses. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Participants in the online program develop specialized industry skills and knowledge. After earning the master's degree in higher education, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career. The institution offers career services to help master's candidates efficiently transition from their studies into the workforce.
Learners in the school's master's programs can access career advising and financial aid counseling. The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Students often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,361
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
21,558
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Grace College & Theological Seminary
Winona Lake, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Winona Lake, Indiana-based Grace College & Theological Seminary provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. The school's academic offerings include 10 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in higher education can pursue the master of science in higher education from the institution in a flexible online format. Learners currently employed in the higher education field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Master's students can access support services including faculty mentorship, academic advising, and career counseling.
Enrollees pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners often apply for fellowships to fund their graduate education.
Grace College & Theological Seminary Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 58%
Total Master's Programs: 16
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,078
Out-of-state
$24,078
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,386
Out-of-state
$7,386
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,957
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
The University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Louisville ranks among the top online master's programs for higher education. With 2,624 distance learners, the public institution also delivers programs on campus in Louisville, Kentucky. Working professionals who enroll in online programs can complete academic requirements around their schedule.
The master of arts in higher education administration features a rigorous curriculum that fosters specialized and transferable skills, which degree-seekers refine while fulfilling major requirements. In addition to completing major courses, students customize the master's curriculum by choosing electives. In designing the curriculum, the program prioritizes flexibility and industry-relevant knowledge. Graduates can transition to a higher education career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. The institution offers career services to help master's students efficiently transition from their studies into the workforce.
Graduate-level learners can access support services including career advising, online tutoring, and financial aid counseling. The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Students often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school's average cost per credit is $553 for online master's programs.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,732
Out-of-state
$27,758
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,000
Out-of-state
$27,114
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,670
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
The University of North Texas
Denton, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of North Texas's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. The public institution's academic offerings include 11 online master's programs. At the school, graduate degree-seekers can enroll in a master of education in higher education. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's scheduling flexibility.
In addition to fulfilling core requirements, master's-level learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Program participants prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's in higher education. The program website provides specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. In-state graduate students at the institution pay an average tuition rate of $5,900, and out-of-state graduate students pay an average of $13,496. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 82% of degree-seekers obtain financial aid to pay for their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,423
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,900
Out-of-state
$13,496
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
39,336
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
A master's degree from Mississippi College prepares graduates for new career opportunities and advancement. Among the school's many graduate program options is the online master of science in higher education administration. The accredited higher education program provides advanced training through its curriculum taught by experts.
Like on-campus students, distance learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff. Master's students learn through video lectures, assignments, and class discussions. The program's rigorous curriculum covers advanced topics in higher education to prepare graduates for higher-level roles. Alumni leave the program with the transferable knowledge and skills that employers value
The institution reports that 100% of learners receive financial aid and 47% take out loans. Other funding options may include grants, fellowships, or scholarships that help bring down the cost of the higher education degree. Prospective applicants should talk to a financial aid counselor to see what funding opportunities are available to them.
Mississippi College Numbers:
Number of Learners Enrolled Online: 2,635
Number of Master's Programs Online: 23
In-State Graduate School Tuition: $11,250
Out-of-State Graduate School Tuition: $11,250
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,550
Out-of-state
$17,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,250
Out-of-state
$11,250
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,733
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in East Lansing, Michigan State University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The school offers 19 total online master's programs.
The institution's online master of arts in higher, adult, and lifelong education is ideal for degree-seekers interested in higher education careers. The higher education degree can qualify graduates for promotions or raises. Faculty advising, career counseling, and experiential learning programs prepare graduates for the workforce.
Enrollees pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
Michigan State University Fast Facts:
Per-Credit Fee: $818
Students Receiving Aid: 70%
Students Receiving Loans: 42%
Total Master's Programs: 126
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
The University of Houston
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, the University of Houston enrolls 18,170 students in its online classes. The school's academic catalog includes a fully online higher education master’s degree. The accredited master of education in higher education program sets high academic standards that employers value.
The online higher education degree prepares graduates for careers in higher education with advanced skills and knowledge. The institution offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 23-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
Prospective applicant can learn more about online support services at the college's website. The school offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This helps graduate learners complete a master's degree with less debt. Students can expect a 61% graduation rate at the university.
The University of Houston Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 19,836
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 15
In-State Graduate Tuition: $8,370/year
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition: $17,746/year
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,526
Average Net Price: $13,212
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,219
Out-of-state
$20,747
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,370
Out-of-state
$17,746
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
46,148
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
The University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Southern Mississippi delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Hattiesburg campus. Learners in a variety of fields can pursue online graduate degrees from the school. The institution's master of education in higher education prepares online students to succeed in higher education careers.
To succeed in the rigorous master's program, enrollees can receive academic advising from higher education faculty members. The online higher education program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their higher education master's degree if enrolled full time.
Students at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. According to the school, 58% of its enrollees use loans to pay for their education. In addition, 93% of learners receive financial aid.
The University of Southern Mississippi Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 169
Number of Online Programs: 60
Online Master's Programs: 50
Number of Online Students: 9,842
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
14,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at Missouri Baptist University to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including higher education. A private institution located in Saint Louis, the university enrolls 1,826 students in its distance learning programs. Busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
Degree-seekers enrolled in the master of science in higher education leadership program develop transferable career skills and gain advanced higher education knowledge. Faculty mentors help graduate students select courses that will support their career aspirations. While pursuing the online master's degree, learners complete a flexible curriculum and develop industry-specific skills. After earning the master's degree in higher education, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. Current and former program participants can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
Master's degree-seekers can access support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, to ensure they choose the best academic and professional tracks. Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. They may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,860
Out-of-state
$26,860
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,197
Out-of-state
$10,197
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
5,309
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
University Park, PA
4 years
Online
Learners in any location can earn respected graduate degrees from Pennsylvania State University World Campus in an online format. The University Park-based institution offers 207 online programs, including 52 online master's programs. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's master of education in higher education. The online higher education program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
The graduate-level curriculum features specialized higher education classes and foundational core coursework. Participants prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their higher education degree in 1-2 years. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective learners can review the institution's website.
Students pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding. The university discounts charges in-state students and nonresidents an average of $21,682. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,484
Out-of-state
$13,484
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,682
Out-of-state
$21,682
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#14 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV
4 years
Online + Campus
West Virginia University educates degree-seekers remotely and on its campus in Morgantown, West Virginia. The school delivers 18 master's programs online. The institution delivers an online master of arts in higher education administration that is ideal for busy degree-seekers interested in advancing their higher education skills.
The higher education program prepares learners to pursue positions in the field or advance their current career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students. Current and former program participants can take advantage of the school's career services and alumni network to help with their higher education job search.
The university's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
West Virginia University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 94%
Students Receiving Loans: 49%
Total Master's Programs: 87
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,976
Out-of-state
$25,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,134
Out-of-state
$26,154
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
26,839
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Online Master’s Programs In Higher Education
Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
With a main campus in Ellensburg, Washington, Central Washington University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Along with in-person programs, the school offers 17 online master's programs.
Degree-seekers at the institution can pursue an online master of education in higher education. Individuals who are new to the field and those with established higher education careers can benefit from the graduate program. Support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Learners also pay for their degree through scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.
Central Washington University Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 90%
Students Receiving Loans: 49%
Total Master's Programs: 66
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,318
Out-of-state
$21,999
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,582
Out-of-state
$22,449
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
11,658
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
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