What You Should Know About This Degree
When choosing a career path in postsecondary education, you should also consider pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching or Master of Education degree. Higher education programs prepare students for leadership roles in academia, such as admissions dean, financial aid director, and student services dean; however, if you want to work in learning environments, you might want to specialize in teaching with a Master of Arts in Teaching degree. Students who want training for all levels of education might pursue a more general Master of Education degree. When deciding which program is right for you, determine whether you would like an administrative career in education or would be more interested in teaching.
Certifications help graduates demonstrate their expertise and skills to potential employers. Consider obtaining certifications such as the Certified Higher Education Professional (CHEP) credential, awarded by the CECU (Career Education Colleges and Universities). Other CEHP certifications are awarded to higher education professionals in specializations such as teaching, online teaching, admissions, career services, campus operations, and leadership.
The demand for higher education professionals is expected to remain high as the number of students enrolled in postsecondary institutions increases over the next decade. Professionals are needed in every department, including admissions, student affairs, and registrar’s office.
What’s Next?
Ask yourself these questions when researching graduate programs in higher education:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students who wish to pursue a master’s in higher education must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Some programs may require a minimum GPA and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score. You might also need to have prior professional work experience.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most master’s programs in higher education take two years of full-time study to complete. The programs on our list require 30 to 50 credits to graduate.
Each program has specific entry requirements. Contact the school’s admissions department or visit the program’s website for information about application materials and submission deadlines.
Consider how you’ll pay for your graduate studies. You might be eligible for federal student aid as well as scholarships and grants. If you have a job in a related field, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement.