Higher Education Administration, M.A.

Contact Information

Jafeth Sanchez, Ph.D., Graduate Program Director 
College of Education and Human Development
jesanchez@unr.edu
(775) 682-9078

Program Objectives/Student Learning Outcomes

The Master’s graduate program in Higher Education Administration aims to generate graduates who are well-versed in content, theories, research methods, and the application of knowledge to practice. The program of study is designed to provide skills, knowledge, and understanding for entry-level leadership positions.

The Master of Arts in Educational Leadership: Higher Education is designed to prepare students for entry- and mid-level positions in a field of higher education. This program is ideal for individuals pursuing careers in areas such as student affairs administration, athletics administration, development and fundraising, admissions and financial aid, alumni relations, and university relations. The curriculum is equally valuable for careers in other organizations that focus on postsecondary education including policy and research organizations, government, and non-profit organizations.

The program consists of 30 credit hours of courses that can be completed in two years. Graduate students will learn from expert scholars and practitioners who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to Higher Education Leadership. Participation in this program provides students with the theoretical background and practical skills to help lead the ever-changing field of higher education. As a Higher Education masters student, you can also pursue a graduate-level certificate to augment your focus (see information later in this document on specifics).

Student Learning Objectives (SLOs)

Admission Requirements

The following are required application components, to be completed and returned to the Graduate School:

1. Completed UNR Application for Admission and current application fee must accompany the application.
2. Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work. (If coursework was completed at UNR, Admissions and Records would already have your transcripts available for the Graduate School, and you need not send them.)
3. In addition to the application form required by the Graduate School, applicants must include EL requirements within the application. This includes:

• Three letters that speak to the applicant’s potential for success both as a graduate student and as an educational administrator. It is recommended that one letter be from an immediate supervisor and at least one be from a university professor, but appropriate variations are acceptable.
• A personal statement (1,000 words max) describing relevant coursework and professional experience that has prepared the applicant for the program, as well as academic and career goals applicable to the program experience and desired after program completion.
• Although not required, applicants may submit additional information such as a resume/vita and cover letter that may provide additional, relevant information for assessing professional promise.

Admission Criteria - Full Admission Status

Most applicants to the M.A. program surpass the minimum requirements established by the Graduate School (see the “Graduate School ” chapter in this catalog), concerning specific regulations on graduate standing). Full admission is based on the following criteria:

1. Academic ability
2. Research and writing skills
3. Professional promise
4. The collective professional judgment of the selection committee

Use of these criteria provides both our department and the applicant with an indication of probable success in the program. Under special circumstances, exceptions to admission criteria may be made for students who do not meet the minimum admission requirements set by the Graduate School.

I. Program Requirements

II. Program Total Hours (30 units)

Undergraduate Requirements

Most applicants to the M.A. program surpass the minimum requirements established by the Graduate School (see the “Graduate School ” chapter in the catalog).