Master of Education
Kevin O’Connor, Ph.D., Program Director
Harkins 321
401.865.2123
The Graduate Studies program in Higher Education prepares students to begin or advance professional careers in a variety of college and university positions. Graduates pursue careers in areas such as advising, career education, admissions, student leadership, residential life, international education, and student support services. Depending on the institution, these roles may be situated within student affairs or academic affairs divisions.
The program consists of 30 credits of coursework and 6 credits of field experience. It is designed to be completed in two academic years, though students have up to five years to fulfill all requirements. Coursework provides both foundational knowledge and opportunities for specialized study. Field experiences serve as a capstone, integrating theory and practice while preparing students for the higher education job market. With approval, students who are already professionals in the field may substitute additional coursework in place of field experiences.
Students who successfully complete the program earn an M.Ed. degree in Higher Education.
The program offers a certificate in Sports Administration for students interested in collegiate athletic careers in areas such as student-athlete advising, coaching, NCAA compliance, and athletics leadership. The certificate consists of 3 courses, approved by the program director, and may be completed separately from or as part of the master’s degree. Students in the master’s program interested in the certificate are encouraged to complete their 2 field practice courses in a collegiate athletics setting.
Application Deadlines*
| Start Term |
Application Deadline |
| Summer I or II |
March 1st |
| Fall |
July 1st |
| Spring |
November 1st |
*Note: Students can take up to 2 courses while their application is under review.*
Admission Requirements
A 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA is required for full admission to the program. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered for conditional admission, which indicates that the student will be required to meet additional academic criteria during their initial coursework to gain full admission. Applicants holding a graduate degree may be considered on the basis of their graduate-level work.
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