M. Ed. Administration & Supervision - Higher Ed. Home
Program Themes | Coursework | Comprehensive Exam
Program Themes
The M.Ed. in Higher Education is a unique program. At its heart is the belief that our nation’s future depends on our ability to productively employ the enormous resources represented by the diversity of our people and our thoughts. This degree could only be offered at an urban research university fully committed to the value of diversity in both people and ideas. This degree is constructed around the following six themes:
Urban perspectives
The University of Houston is situated in one of the most culturally, ethnically, and professionally diverse cities in the United States. Because of its location in Houston's urban core, the University and its Higher Education program within the Department of Educational Psychology are in a unique position to prepare those who aspire to leadership positions in student affairs within a college or university. It does so by providing an array of skills, theoretical foundations and practical experiences specifically aimed at dealing with a diversity of individuals, ideas and educational settings that will help graduates bridge the gap between the student, the institution and the city.
Education for all people and all places
The Masters in Higher Education program of study in the UH College of Education is offered within a diverse setting because faculty and administrators believe that such an environment prepares students to become good citizens in an increasingly complex and pluralistic society. It fosters mutual respect and teamwork, and it helps build communities whose members are judged by the quality of their character and their contributions. While enrolled in the Masters in Higher Education program, students will learn about the importance of diversity from two experts in the field, Dr. Catherine Horn and Dr. Yali Zou.
Student experience and opportunity
Student work in the Masters in Higher Education program focuses on undergraduate students' academic and social collegiate experiences. One of the most important issues facing higher education today is the high attrition rates of undergraduates on our campuses and their differential impacts across various segments of society. The need to educate future practitioners on those factors that positively influence student adjustment to college, academic performance and, ultimately, decisions to remain committed to the attainment of a bachelor's degree is the most important endeavor of the Masters in Higher Education program.
Policy and planning
Because of current demands, student affairs specialists must be prepared to engage in meaningful strategic planning and policy analysis that will realign campus support services with student needs resulting from rapid student and campus growth and increased student diversity. The Masters in Higher Education program in the College of Education focuses on the impact of student diversity on learning and pays close attention to the broadening of policies, organizational structures and behavioral activities that are meaningful to students.
Collaboration and community
Collaboration and community are key words for the University of Houston, the College of Education and the Department of Educational Psychology. The Masters in Higher Education program has been shaped, in part, by higher education administrators and practitioners who have assisted in the development of curriculum, teaching and research components and experiential opportunities for students. Through these partnerships, students are provided the opportunity to see the application of student affairs/development theories in practice.
Proven experience and leadership
There are more than 4000 colleges and universities in the United States . Each of these institutions --- collectively and individually --- plays an important role in the success of the nation and in the success of its respective community. In turn, the success of each of these post secondary education institutions depends on the devoted, dedicated and effective performance of those trusted with leadership positions. Students in the program learn leadership theories and practice from faculty who have proven themselves as leaders throughout their careers.
