The Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) provides 36 semester hours of graduate work to prepare individuals for mid- and upper-level positions in postsecondary education. This degree is for individuals interested in beginning or advancing careers in higher or adult education and provides opportunities for students to explore and apply research and theory to the complex contexts of today's educational environments.
*Note: The M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs is a non-licensure program and does not lead to NC K-12 teaching, administration, or supervision licensure.
Program Goals
These Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) describe the intentions of the program and what students will learn throughout their matriculation. Students will demonstrate achievement of the SLOs through various in-class assessments, including a Professional Competency Development Portfolio.At the completion of this program, students will have the knowledge and competencies needed to be successful practitioners of Higher Education and Student Affairs. All Program Goals and SLOs are in alignment with the ACPA/NASPA Competencies for Student Affairs Educators (2015/2016).
Program Goals | Specific Intentions |
Program Goal 1: Develop Ethical, Knowledgeable, and Competent Higher Education Practitioners Graduates will demonstrate a deep understanding of the historical, philosophical, and ethical foundations of higher education and student affairs, applying legal, policy, and governance knowledge while effectively managing institutional resources | 1.1. Analyze the historical and philosophical foundations of higher education and their relevance to contemporary practice. 1.2. Apply legal, policy, and governance knowledge to address institutional challenges in student affairs. 1.3. Evaluate ethical dilemmas in student affairs practice and propose solutions aligned with professional standards. 1.4. Demonstrate competency in managing financial and human resources in higher education settings. 1.5. Synthesize ethical, historical, and financial knowledge to propose strategic institutional initiatives. |
Program Goal 2: Cultivate Student-Centered, Inclusive, and Developmentally Informed Educators Graduates will apply a broad range of interdisciplinary theories to create holistic, inclusive, and equity-minded environments while effectively advising and supporting students. | 2.1. Apply student development and learning theories to enhance student engagement and success. 2.2. Utilize advising and mentoring techniques that support diverse student populations. 2.3. Design inclusive campus programs and policies that address issues of power, privilege, and oppression. 2.4. Develop strategies to foster student well-being, resilience, and belonging in campus communities. 2.5. Integrate student development theories and equity principles into a holistic student affairs initiative. |
Program Goal 3: Advance Leadership, Innovation, and Evidence-Based Decision Making Graduates will demonstrate leadership competencies that foster institutional change, research-informed practice, and strategic innovation in student affairs. | 3.1. Apply leadership theories to organizational challenges in student affairs. 3.2. Conduct assessment and evaluation to inform data-driven decision-making in student affairs. 3.3. Integrate emerging technologies into student affairs practice to enhance student learning and success. 3.4. Synthesize assessment, leadership, and policy knowledge to propose and defend a strategic initiative.
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Location/Delivery
The Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) program is offered both on the main App State campus and off-campus through the App State Online program.
Students on campus may attend part-time or full-time, attending classes in the evenings. Each class meets one night per week.
Students in the distance education program join a part-time, online cohort and take two classes each term (including summers) for two years. Classes meet on weeknight evenings.
Accepting Applications for MA Program Boone Campus and Online
Fall Enrollment: February 1 (priority deadline)/April 1 (regular deadline)
Spring Enrollment: November 1
Preference will be given to applications submitted by February 1st. The regular deadline is April 1st or until the cohort is filled.
Other Information
For information about the M.A. program, contact Dr. Chauntee Thrill, Program Director at hesa@appstate.edu