Program Overview
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 in the center of your work. Higher education is always changing to meet the needs of current students, especially in issues of equity and access. Our M.S. program will prepare you to genuinely understand, analyze, and meet those changing needs and to assure that higher education is a welcoming and supportive space for all students. The M.S. program is designed to provide students with a theoretical foundation in higher education policy and student affairs. Each course is grounded in the ACPA/NASPA Professional Competencies, and experiential opportunities in the curriculum allow you to put theory into practice in the field. The college campus will become your “lab,” and you will have many learning experiences outside of the classroom, including two internship classes totaling 500 hours in the field. The program also allows for the option of earning a certificate in Sustainability or Educational Technology. The critical action research focus is a unique element of WCU’s program. Students complete a thesis which is a developed proposal of an intervention to solve a problem in student affairs and higher education. Our graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to serve in positions in student affairs, student services, and many other positions in higher education.
Program Highlights
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Program can be completed in 2 years
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Option available for students to earn a certificate in Sustainability or Educational Technology
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Evening classes for working professionals
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Graduate assistantship opportunities
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Master’s Degree is typical entry level education for this field
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10% projected industry growth through 2026 (according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
What can I do with this degree?
Our students are currently working in myriad positions in higher education including:
- Residence life
- Admissions
- Student life
- Advising
- Career development and services
- Service learning
- Student leadership
- Financial aid
- Recreation and athletics
- Student activities
- Multicultural affairs