Higher Education

  • MA
  • Master's Degree
A college professor helps a student at Montclair State University.

If you’re inspired to shape the future of colleges and universities, Montclair’s MA in Higher Education will prepare you for leadership roles that make a real difference in students’ lives.

This 36-credit program (33 credits if you have more than two years of professional experience in higher education) is designed for aspiring and current professionals who want to advance in areas such as student affairs, academic advising, enrollment management, diversity and inclusion, or institutional research. You’ll explore the history and philosophy of higher education, learn about organizational structures and policy, and gain the skills to address the evolving challenges facing today’s campuses.

Coursework emphasizes equity, access, and student success, preparing you to create inclusive environments where all learners can thrive. You’ll also gain hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork, giving you the opportunity to apply theory to practice in real college settings.

Faculty with deep expertise in higher education leadership and research will guide your learning, while the program’s flexible design makes it possible to pursue your degree alongside your professional responsibilities.

If you’re ready to become a leader who supports students and strengthens institutions, Montclair’s MA in Higher Education will give you the knowledge, experience, and network to move forward with confidence.

The Best of Both Worlds

Our Master of Arts in Higher Education program gives you a blend of in-person, fully online and hybrid courses – allowing you to learn on your time and keep both your career and your life moving forward. 

See the curriculum.

Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.

Application Checklist

Application Deadline: Rolling admission.

  1. Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  2. Transcript: One from each college attended.
  3. Essays/Personal Statement: Answering the below prompts, highlight strengths that will make you an excellent graduate student within our program, and explain any areas of relative weakness in your application.
    • What draws you to the Higher Education program at Montclair State University?
    • What are your areas of interest within Higher Education?
    • The College for Education and Engaged Learning at Montclair State University values diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Why do diversity and social justice matter in the field of higher education?
  4. Resume: Required.
  5. Letters of Recommendation: Two encouraged, but not required.
Photo of Kaurin Cuello
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Throughout my program I was presented with various um opportunities such as attending conferences, being in events, meeting other alumni and other higher-ed professionals and serving on our student council.

Kaurin Cuello

Program: MA in Higher Education:

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Questions? We’re Here to Help.

For questions about this program or information about how to enroll, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Graduate Admissions Office

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Roman Liera

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.