Master of Science in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs

 

Work Toward Equity & Access in Higher Education

Higher Education is constantly changing. The Master of Science in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs at West Chester University will prepare you to make a difference in the lives of college students by placing them at the center of your work. You’ll learn to genuinely understand, analyze, and meet the changing needs of students, and ensure that higher education is a welcoming and supportive space for all students.

Each course in the M.S. program is grounded in the ACPA/NASPA Professional Competencies with experiential opportunities built into the curriculum to allow you to put theory into practice in the field. The college campus will become your lab, providing you with learning experiences outside of the classroom, including two internship classes totaling 300 hours in the field.

The critical action research focus is a unique element of WCU’s program. This Capstone Project develops an intervention to "solve" a problem or concern in student affairs and higher education. The Capstone Project reflects a culmination of your learning throughout the graduate program.

Our graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to serve in positions in student affairs, student services, and many other positions in higher education.

 

Benefits of Earning Your Graduate Degree at West Chester University

Flexible Coursework

The Master of Science in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs was designed with working professionals in mind. With evening coursework, you’ll be able to balance the demands of work, family, life, and school. The program can be completed in as little as two years.

Accomplished Faculty and Small Classes

WCU has an outstanding faculty with decades of experience and connections to colleges and universities locally and regionally.

The faculty in this program have worked in the field of higher education and student affairs and bring practical experience to their academic work. They are frequent presenters at home and abroad and have published studies, chapters, and books based on their areas of interest.

At WCU, our small graduate classes mean you’ll receive personalized attention and an individualized program experience with faculty who are deeply committed to providing mentorship and support to each student.

Affordable Tuition

Affordability is part of WCU’s mission and our tuition rates are among the most affordable in the region. To help put your graduate studies within reach, WCU also offers financial aid, employee reimbursement options, payment plans, and graduate assistantships.

Personalized Career Advising

As a graduate student at WCU, you will have full access to the Twardowski Career Development Center (CDC). The experts at the CDC will help you explore career options, write your résumé, perfect your interviewing skills, and create a job search strategy. The CDC also hosts employment fairs on campus throughout the year.

Internship Courses

As a student in the M.S. in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs, you will have two internship classes and opportunities totaling 300 hours in the field. Your first internships will focus on developing the interpersonal, listening and referral skills necessary for work in the field of higher education and student affairs. Your second internship will focus on developing an understanding of strategic planning and institutional structure as well as planning for and creating policy changes. Internships may be completed over the summer.

 

What Can You Do with a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs

Our students are innovators, leaders, and difference makers who are a positive force on college campuses thanks to their myriad advocacy skills.

Graduates from the program have gone on to work in many roles in higher education including:

• Student Success Coordinator
• Resident Director
• Residence Hall Director
• Program Coordinator, Fraternity And Sorority Life
• Coordinator, Student Engagement And Leadership
• Area Coordinator
• Accommodations Coordinator
• Residential Education Coordinator
• Residence Life Coordinator
• Academic Advisor
• Senior Community Manager
• Resident Director and Coordinator of Student Engagement
• Transfer Concierge
• Program Coordination for Alcohol and Drug Prevention Coordinator

 

Where are our graduates?

 

What Will You Study as a Student in the Master of Science in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs Program?

The master’s program consists of 36 credits including internship experiences.