Higher Education & Student Affairs (MS)

Program Overview

Combine your leadership experience with your passion for working with students. The Master of Science in Higher Education & Student Affairs is ideal for those who want to work with students in a higher-education setting but not in a traditional teaching capacity. 

Our small, in-person classes promote active learning and provide students with many opportunities for lively discussions. Learning in the classroom is complimented by our graduate assistantships which give students real-world experience in higher education, increasing their professional marketability. Students also have opportunities to work with our faculty on their research. 

Our affordable tuition and options for double/dual or 4+1/accelerated degrees help students maximize the value of their investment in their education.

Degrees Offered

  • MS in Higher Education and Student Affairs

Internships, Research Opportunities and More

All students are required to participate in at least one internship in which they apply what they have learned in the classroom in a real-life setting and acquire practical professional skills while working under the guidance of experienced practitioners. Students who apply to the program by Feb. 1 are guaranteed a graduate assistantship (GA) — which provide additional practical experiences, as well as financial support packages.

The Student Affairs Graduate Association (SAGA) offers students in the program another great way to get involved in the university community. This student-led organization aims to provide support and services that encourage personal, professional and community development to current students and alumni. Faculty also encourage involvement and participation in professional organizations, conferences and trainings, which further immerse students in the field. 

After You Graduate

Graduates of the program are prepared to enter careers in the full range of the field of student affairs such as:

  • academic advising
  • admissions and enrollment management
  • career development and placement
  • financial aid
  • health services
  • judicial affairs
  • multicultural affairs
  • non-traditional and commuter student services
  • residential life
  • services for students with disabilities
  • student development and involvement.

Coupled with sufficient professional experience, the program may also serve as the foundation for students wishing to become deans of students or vice presidents for student affairs.

Admission Requirements

Funding/Scholarships

There are many funding and scholarship opportunities at Binghamton. We encourage prospective students to review available program-specific scholarships and awards, and visit the program's website for additional information. Note: Master's students are generally self-funded, although funding opportunities occasionally arise.

Accelerated/4+1 Degrees

You may also be interested in our accelerated/4+1 degree programs which allow students to complete their bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in just 5 years!

Dual/Double Degrees

Our double/dual degrees allow students to earn two separate master's degrees at the same time in as little as 3 years!

For more information, visit the Higher Education & Student Affairs website.