NIU master’s program in higher education and student affairs

NIU Logo

Earn your MS Ed in Higher Education and Student Affairs from NIU – right here at Harper.

Tailored to the needs of working professionals who want to advance their higher education careers, this hybrid cohort program provides theoretical groundwork, practical application and contextual understanding of higher education and the diverse students it serves.
In addition to critical administrative knowledge, valuable topics such as social justice, inclusion, and student affairs are explored in-depth.
Prepare for the next stage of your career with a cohort of professionals who will become career-long peers. Eight-week classes enhance your focus as you move through the program.
The University Center at Harper College makes it possible for you to earn this degree without travelling to DeKalb for classes or other meetings.

How does an NIU master's degree work through Harper College?

When you enroll in the M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs program, you become a student of Northern Illinois University and pursue your coursework with NIU's expert faculty members.
Begin your educational journey in Spring 2024. Hybrid courses combine online asynchronous learning with in-person monthly classes held on Saturdays at Harper College.
Courses in the program are taught sequentially in two eight-week blocks during fall and spring terms. Each eight-week course requires two Saturdays of in-person, full day classes at Harper College (four Saturdays per class term). Our six-week summer sessions also require two Saturdays of in-person classes at Harper College.
Your tuition for both years of the two-year program is locked in when you enroll.
As an NIU student, you'll have access to all the resources offered to other NIU students along with the convenience of Harper's Palatine location for classes.

Prepare to begin working toward your master’s degree.

Take the next step toward earning your MS Ed through the University Center by requesting information. A University Center representative will reach out to review your academic goals and create a customized University Center plan for you.

Admission Requirements

3.0 undergraduate GPA

Resume/CV

Two letters of recommendation

Personal statement (Guidance available here)

NIU M.S. Ed. Contact

Danae Miesbauer
Academic Counselor
Department of Counseling and Higher Education
815-753-1306
dmiesbauer@niu.edu