Dr. Kimberly J. SalgadoMaster of Arts vs. Master of Science: What's the Difference?
Education | 10min Read
Master’s in Higher Education Administration Online Master of Science (MS) Degree Program
Program Overview Why get a master’s in higher education administration online?
Recent shifts in learning technology, complex policy and more have increased the need for innovative, fiscally responsible leaders. Southern New Hampshire University's Master of Science (MS) in Higher Education Administration degree explores everything from strategic leadership to data-driven resource management, so you can successfully balance student demands with organizational needs.
Skills you'll learn:
- Data-based strategies to address challenges
- Program evaluation techniques
- Policy analysis at all levels
- Decision-making practices
- Institutional leadership approaches
- Budgeting and resource allocation tactics
Courses & Curriculum Master’s in higher education administration online classes that teach you to take charge
Gain deep insight into the history and theories that have shaped higher learning in the United States, while gaining the know-how to take confident action.
Master's in higher education administration online courses
In this 36-credit program, you'll learn the communication, management, organization and technical skills required of today's higher education leaders.
Courses may include:
Philosophy and History of Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 510
Candidates seeking to become degreed higher education administrators must first understand the historical, philosophical, and social influences that have built America's concept of higher education and articulate their own personal philosophy of higher education. Emphasis will be placed on the reciprocal relationship between higher education models and their socio-historical contexts.
Contemporary Issues in Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 520
Through the use of contextualized cases representative of the technological, demographic, and intellectual shifts that have influenced higher education's evolving role in the twenty-first century, candidates will examine the issues facing higher education today and link their judgments to historical foundations. Candidates will create alignments between current issues in higher education and how they influence the twenty-first-century student.
Data-Driven Decision-Making in Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 530
This course will further candidates' ability to methodically apply empirically based, data-centric approaches to inform institutional decision making across multiple university sectors. Through contextualized, authentic experiences, candidates will analyze, evaluate, and assess programs using contemporary technologies and develop evidence-based approaches to meet desired outcomes. Candidates will be required to justify the empirically based process by which they reached their programmatic decisions. Specific modes of inquiry driving this course will be strongly represented in subsequent course work.
Program Evaluation
Course ID:
HEA 540
This course will explore the theories and processes of higher education program evaluation. Candidates will - within the context of a university's mission, strategic goals, and objectives - learn necessary skills to methodically evaluate higher education programs. Candidates will analyze given sets of case-based data and offer evidence and research based justifications for programmatic changes. Project management concepts and tools will be applied throughout the course.
Higher Education Law and Regulation
Course ID:
HEA 550
With an examination of the key laws, policies, and concepts specific to higher education in the United States, candidates will gain a sense of higher education law's complexity and how law has assumed a greater role in establishing patterns, modes of conduct, and equitable procedures in an attempt to assure the rights and responsibilities of administrators, faculty members, staff, and students in the institutional context.
Enrollment Management and Marketing
Course ID:
HEA 610
This course will address the data-centric enrollment management process within higher education, including how to attract, admit, and retain students. Candidates will examine the tools for effective admissions marketing, predicting admissions yields, and assessing how financial aid influences enrollment behavior. Candidates will gain the evidence-based skills necessary to understand the tactics for successful onboarding and continued retention of students, as well as the structures and approaches aimed at improving student achievement and persistence.
Budget and Financial Management in Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 620
This course will require candidates to empirically make sense of quantitative data sets related to financial management of an institution. Candidates will manipulate tuition and fee revenue models and make justifiable, quantitatively-based budgetary decisions regarding how those decisions map onto given institution's strategic initiatives and mission. Through the use of fiscal management models, candidates will how account for how government appropriations, financial aid regulations, large grants, and investment income influence these decisions.
Leading Change in Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 630
This course explores the responsibility of innovative - and accountable - change agents who must manage institutional responses to major external or internal forces. Candidates will consider how to apply empirical data and quality improvement principles to planning. Candidates will demonstrate how strategic approaches may be applied to successful navigation of individual, collaborative, and organizational structures. Through the examination of effective communication strategies, consensus building, and negotiation candidates will focus on creative problem solving through innovative approaches and models related to the administration of institutions of higher education in the 21st century.
Capstone in Higher Education
Course ID:
HEA 690
This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Higher Education Administration program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MS in Higher Education Administration curriculum.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Nov. 10, 2025 | Feb. 2, 2026
Next term starts:
August 25, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience
Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in higher education. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in a field that's always changing.
Dr. Kimberly J. Salgado has nearly two decades’ experience in higher education administration. She's deeply passionate about research and has most recently given presentations entitled “Online Faculty Behavior Research Study & Findings” and “Online Tactical Listening & Conflict Resolution Research.”
Position
Associate Dean, Education and First Year Experience
Joined SNHU
2016
Education
- EdD in Higher Education Administrational Leadership from Immaculata University
- MBA from Western International University
- BS in Business Administration from Northeastern State University
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 36-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$659
$1,977
$23,724
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$16,920
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,977 $3,954 $5,931 $7,908If 3 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $21,747
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,770
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,793
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,816
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with a master’s in higher education administration online degree?
Depending on your specific role, your duties as a higher education administrator could vary. You may work directly with students or, instead, act as an informed leader who moves forward an agenda amidst conflicting pressures and perspectives.
Industries
Higher education administrators are often employed in the following areas:
Academic Affairs
Lead initiatives in curriculum development, academic policies, and faculty support and development.
Distance Learning
Work in higher ed's hottest topic – online delivery models. Beyond the technical logistics, you'll consider how to best support students learning remotely.
Diversity Management
Lead the diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at your organization to ensure access and representation for your school's employees and students.
Student Affairs
Ensure students have the best possible experience by identifying opportunities for improvement in areas of student support, academics and extracurriculars.
Student Recruitment and Retention
Recruit students who you think will thrive at your institution and guide them to degree completion.
Registrar's Office
Schedule course offerings and plan logistics for class space. Help students enroll in courses, in addition to preparing diplomas, transcripts and other academic records.
4%
Increase nationally in roles for postsecondary education administrators through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$102,610
Median annual pay nationally for postsecondary education administrators as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
SNHU works hard to ensure the students know they are personally supported.
Holly Schwieger-Hoak '16G
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a master's in higher education administration?
A master's in higher education administration is a graduate degree that prepares professionals to help advance a postsecondary institution in critical ways.
An MS in Higher Education Administration teaches students how to:
- Be strategic leaders
- Create cultures of student success
- Apply data-driven resource management
Southern New Hampshire University's program was built to help administrators face 21st-century challenges in postsecondary education.
What can you do with a master's in higher education?
When people think of jobs in higher education, they usually imagine professors. But with classes to be scheduled, students to be supported, clubs to be organized and initiatives to be funded, many other roles are needed to keep a college or university operating smoothly.
If you want to work in higher education, but aren't interested in teaching, you might want to consider higher education administration. Some job titles include:
- Academic dean
- Admissions director
- Director of financial aid
- Institutional research director
- Provost
- Registrar
- University president
- VP of academic affairs
You can earn a specialized degree to get the knowledge you need to succeed in these positions. SNHU, an accredited, nonprofit university, offers a master's in higher education administration that you can earn completely online. We also have some of the most affordable online tuition rates in the nation, alongside dedicated staff and faculty who prioritize student support.
Is a master's degree in higher education worth it?
Only you can decide whether or not a degree is worth it. The face of higher education is changing tremendously. Colleges and universities need innovative leaders who can help advance institutions through modern solutions.
If you know you want to pursue a career in higher education, a master's can certainly help you reach your goals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical entry-level education for postsecondary education administrators is a master's.1
With that in mind, you should pick a program that fits your goals, budget and lifestyle. SNHU is an accredited, nonprofit university offering an online master's program that focuses specifically on higher education administration. The online format allows you to have more flexibility in completing your degree, and we have some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. Plus, our advisors are known for their first-class support.
How do I become a higher education administrator?
If you want to become a higher education administrator, gaining experience in the education field and earning a master's degree is a great start.
Many academic institutions require a master's degree for their administrative positions. Southern New Hampshire University offers a specialized MS in Higher Education Administration that you can complete entirely online. This 12-course graduate degree program focuses on building skills in budgeting and financial management, law and regulation, program evaluation, marketing, leadership and beyond. Even better? SNHU has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the United States.
Having prior experience in higher education is also helpful in becoming a higher education administrator. If you currently work in elementary or secondary education, earning a graduate education administration degree could help you make the transition to a postsecondary setting.
Is higher education a good career?
By many standards, higher education is a good career choice. Here are some of the benefits of pursuing a career as a higher education administrator:
- Salary. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary education administrators earned a median annual salary of $102,610 in May 2023.1
- Job growth. The BLS also reported that postsecondary education administrator jobs were expected to grow on pace with the national average for all occupations.1 About 15,300 openings for postsecondary education administration are projected, on average, annually through 2032.1 Employers predominantly include state, local and private colleges, universities and professional schools, as well as junior colleges.1
- Innovation. One of the benefits of the accelerated shift to online education is that it can help create employment opportunities free of geographic barriers. What's more, innovations in education present new, dynamic challenges for qualified professionals to shape the future of their field.
- Personal rewards. A career in higher education can be personally rewarding. At SNHU, we know firsthand how much education can improve the lives of learners.
Additionally, the BLS noted that higher degree attainment is linked to higher salaries and lower unemployment rates.1
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2020/data-on-display/education-pays.htm (viewed Apr. 11, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.