Higher Education Leadership MS

The higher education leadership graduate program provides a pathway for professional employment, advancement and leadership in a wide variety of careers in post-secondary educational settings, college transition programs and/or community agencies, government agencies and consulting firms concerned with higher education.

Quick Facts

Rolling Admission Apply Anytime

You Can Start Spring, Fall or Summer

Delivery Option(s) Main Campus, Online

Cost Per Credit Hour $471

Credits 33

Estimated Completion Time 2 Years

Overview

The program prepares leaders across all higher education sectors through an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach. Courses and faculty, being academic affairs, student affairs and administrative perspectives, provide students diverse experiences and opportunities as they move through the program. The program is uniquely positioned to offer two internship experiences with a focus on creating more diverse and inclusive academic environments.

Curriculum

This 33-credit hour program provides coursework in higher educational history, student learning and development, leadership theory and research, with an emphasis on creating a more just, diverse, equitable and accessible learning environment. The program is uniquely positioned to offer two internship experiences to provide authentic learning experiences.

Master of Science

Authentic Learning

This program ensures hands-on experience across various departments so students can engage in self-directed inquiry, problem-solving, critical thinking and reflection in real-world and creative contexts.

Outcomes

Graduates will understand the historical and contemporary issues in the United States higher education landscape, including access and affordability, be able to analyze and evaluate campus policies and procedures related to diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice, and will demonstrate competencies in the theories of student learning and development, strategic leadership principles and in the laws that affect colleges and universities. Through various field experiences, graduates will have the professional skills necessary to succeed in a variety of careers in higher education across academic affairs, student affairs and alumni and development, community agencies that support higher education and students transitioning to college, or at higher education professional organizations.

Career Opportunities

  • Assistant Director, Academic Advising
  • Assistant Director, Employer Relations
  • Assistant Director of Multicultural Student and Academic Programs
  • Assistant Director for International Studies
  • Assistant Director of Access Programs
image of hayley weiner

I have a strong passion for education and the power that knowledge can provide individuals. The design of the Higher Education Leadership program's curriculum has allowed me to identify and gain practical experiences in my desired sector within the diverse field of higher education.

graduate student, Ryan Stiles, working on computer

I've always been passionate about education and its potential to shape lives. It's not just about the dissemination of knowledge. It's about empowering individuals to unlock their full potential.

professor Peter Ghazarian in his office working on the computer

I believe in higher education for the public good – higher education that helps individuals to grow to their full potential and helps society to move forward.

Program Resources

Information Sessions

Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!

Register Today
faculty and student on local television station

Professor Peter Ghazarian and graduate student Ryan Stiles discussed SUNY Oswego's graduate higher education leadership programs on Bridge Street, highlighting the importance of leadership roles in higher education.

Watch Bridge Street segment>





Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program

Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.

Learn More

More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered

Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.

Learn More




$500,000

in total awards given every year to our graduate students

See Funding Opportunities


The Power of SUNY Tuition

Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.

Admission Requirements

Official transcript
Submit official transcripts confirming your bachelor’s or master’s degree/advanced certificate. This includes graduate-level coursework or post-baccalaureate degree/certificate. U.S. transcripts must be sent directly from the granting institution (electronic or mail). All international transcripts require verification via a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation. If you are a SUNY Oswego alum, your official transcript will be automatically requested after entering your student ID and identifying SUNY Oswego as your school on the application upon submitting your application.
Purpose Statement

In 500 words or less, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. This statement will help the review team better understand and evaluate your application.

Resume

Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.

Two letters of recommendation

Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities. 

Application fee

Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.

International admissions

Important: All international transcripts must be verified through a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation as part of your application.

English Language Proficiency: Submit official TOEFL (79 overall, MBA 83) or IELTS (6.5) scores, unless exempt.

Visa and I-20 Documentation: After acceptance, upload your financial documents and passport copy to receive your Form I-20 for your visa application.

For more details, please visit Application Requirements for International Graduate Students.

Request Information

Loading...

Next Steps to Apply

Ready to get started? We’re here to make the application process as smooth as possible. Take the next step by creating an application account and save your progress at any time.

Apply