Higher Education
Don't just work in higher education—transform it.
Students in the UMass Amherst Higher Education program aspire to be leaders in higher education, revolutionizing the field by working for social justice and equity in educational institutions.
Higher Education students engage deeply with scholarship in rigorous programs that approach the study of higher education topics through lenses of critical theory and social justice. They are critical thinkers who are dedicated to challenging systems of oppression that limit access to colleges and universities.
Our graduates pursue careers as administrators, faculty, researchers, policy analysts, and student affairs professionals in colleges, universities, and state and federal agencies devoted to post-secondary education.
Explore our programs
Benefits list
Earn your master's degree in person or online.
Flexible program options to advance your career in higher education administration.
Earn a graduate certificate to boost your skills.
Ideal for current and future leaders in higher education who would benefit from leadership training but already have a terminal degree or do not need an advanced degree. Study leadership, management, and organization in higher education, focusing on the intersection of theory and practice.
Alumni spotlight
In the spotlight
"What inspired me to work in this field is the opportunity to be a changemaker and create more opportunities for students who otherwise wouldn't have them."
Examining how institutions support parents and families of students, Amanda Morgida looks at the impact this has on access to higher education and the equity of their college experience.
In the news
EDUC alumni and faculty well represented at NERA 2023
Associate Professor Jamila Lyiscott delivered the conference's keynote address. Three EDUC alumni co-chaired the conference, which took place October 18-20.
Interfaith engagement in college combats Islamophobia, according to research by Shaheen & colleagues
New research published by Musbah Shaheen suggests that college environments play a vital role in combating Islamophobia.
Chantal Lima Barbosa appointed to Boston School Committee
Chantal Lima Barbosa appointed to Boston School Committee