Higher Education Leadership Online MS

The higher education leadership online graduate program offers a comprehensive pathway for professional growth, career advancement and leadership opportunities in diverse post-secondary educational settings such as college transition programs, community agencies, government organizations and consulting firms focused on higher education. 

Quick Facts

Rolling Admission Apply Anytime

You Can Start Spring, Fall or Summer

Delivery Option(s) Main Campus, Online

In-State Cost $471 Per Credit

Credits 33

Estimated Completion Time 2 Years

Overview

The online higher education leadership program prepares leaders across all higher education sectors through an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach. Our courses and faculty, encompassing academic affairs, student affairs, and administrative perspectives, provide students with diverse experiences and opportunities throughout the program.

Curriculum

This 33-credit hour online program offers coursework in higher education history, student learning and development, leadership theory and research, all with an emphasis on creating a more just, diverse, equitable and accessible learning environment. Uniquely positioned, the program provides two internship experiences for authentic, hands-on learning.

Master of Science

Flexibility and convenience with online degrees

An online graduate degree provides the flexibility to advance your education while maintaining your professional and personal commitments, offering convenience and accessibility for career enhancement and skill development.

Outcomes

Graduates will gain a deep understanding of historical and contemporary issues in the United States higher education landscape, including access and affordability. They will be equipped to analyze and evaluate campus policies and procedures related to diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice. Additionally, graduates will demonstrate competencies in student learning and development theories, strategic leadership principles, and the laws affecting colleges and universities. Through various field experiences, they will acquire the professional skills necessary to succeed in a wide range of higher education careers, including academic affairs, student affairs, alumni and development, community agencies supporting higher education and college transitions, and higher education professional organizations.

Career Opportunities

  • Assistant Director, Academic Advising
  • Assistant Director, Employer Relations
  • Assistant Director of Multicultural Student and Academic Programs
  • Assistant Director for International Studies
  • Assistant Director of Access Programs
image of hayley weiner

I have a strong passion for education and the power that knowledge can provide individuals. The design of the Higher Education Leadership program's curriculum has allowed me to identify and gain practical experiences in my desired sector within the diverse field of higher education.

graduate student, Ryan Stiles, working on computer

I've always been passionate about education and its potential to shape lives. It's not just about the dissemination of knowledge. It's about empowering individuals to unlock their full potential.

professor Peter Ghazarian in his office working on the computer

I believe in higher education for the public good – higher education that helps individuals to grow to their full potential and helps society to move forward.

Program Resources

Information Sessions

Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!

Register Today
faculty and student on local television station

Professor Peter Ghazarian and graduate student Ryan Stiles discussed SUNY Oswego's graduate higher education leadership programs on Bridge Street, highlighting the importance of leadership roles in higher education.

Watch Bridge Street segment>





Diversity Graduate Fellowship Program

Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.

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More than 120 Graduate Assistantships Offered

Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.

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$500,000

in total awards given every year to our graduate students

See Funding Opportunities


The Power of SUNY Tuition

Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.

Application Requirements

Official transcript
Submit official transcripts confirming your bachelor’s or master’s degree/advanced certificate. This includes graduate-level coursework or post-baccalaureate degree/certificate. U.S. transcripts must be sent directly from the granting institution (electronic or mail). All international transcripts require verification via a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation. If you are a SUNY Oswego alum, your official transcript will be automatically requested after entering your student ID and identifying SUNY Oswego as your school on the application upon submitting your application.
Purpose Statement

In 500 words or less, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. This statement will help the review team better understand and evaluate your application.

Resume

Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.

Two letters of recommendation

Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities. 

Application fee

Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.

International admissions

Important: All international transcripts must be verified through a World Education Services (WES) credit evaluation as part of your application.

English Language Proficiency: Submit official TOEFL (79 overall, MBA 83) or IELTS (6.5) scores, unless exempt.

Visa and I-20 Documentation: After acceptance, upload your financial documents and passport copy to receive your Form I-20 for your visa application.

For more details, please visit Application Requirements for International Graduate Students.

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Next Steps to Apply

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