Higher Education Administration

The Masters of Science in Education in Higher Education Administration (MSEd-HEA) program prepares students for leadership and supervisory positions in postsecondary institutions, as well as in related nonprofit organizations, college preparatory programs, government agencies, and research centers. With a distinct emphasis on advancing social mobility through postsecondary schooling, the curriculum covers key aspects of college administration, including governing institutions, organizing academic departments and offices, delivering student services, preparing and implementing budgets, managing collective bargaining, and conducting educational research. As part of Baruch College and CUNY—institutions consistently recognized as national leaders in promoting social mobility—students benefit from direct access to systems and programs that have proven to transform lives. In addition to the focus on social mobility, contemporary topics are explored, such as online education, change management, and the globalization of higher education. In addition to Marxe faculty, senior administrators teach in the program, ensuring students develop academic and practice-oriented knowledge and skills. Graduates pursue careers as executives, directors, coordinators, and analysts of programs and services.  

A total of 36 credits are required for the degree if an internship is not needed. Students without at least one year of administrative work experience in higher education are required to complete a 3-credit internship for a total of 39 credits. Outside of the internship, there are 24 required credits and 12 elective credits. Students within the Higher Education Administration (MSEd-HEA) degree program at Marxe are expected to obtain knowledge and demonstrate skills associated with the following Program Learning Goals approved by the faculty. 

Note: These goals are taught at varied levels within the core courses and will be addressed in further detailed throughout the program.

The MSEd-HEA program at the Marxe School has established competencies and learning goals that all graduates are expected to achieve.

Program Learning Goal 1: Identify and navigate the complex structures of higher education to inform effective change.

Program Learning Goal 2: Analyze, think critically, and make evidence-based recommendations to advance higher education in a manner that recognizes historical context, organizational mission, accreditation standards, and/or strategic plans.

Program Learning Goal 3: Communicate and interact effectively with a highly diverse set of constituencies—including students, faculty, administrators, alumni, and/or community members—within and related to the field of higher education.

Program Learning Goal 4: Articulate and apply a set of values for cultivating an equitable, inclusive, and just higher education environment.

Program Learning Goal 5: Use leadership, management, and/or student development theories to analyze the design, operation, and governance of higher education institutions.

Program Learning Goal 6: Develop and/or adapt strategies that leverage postsecondary education as a catalyst for social mobility.