UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST MASTER'S PROGRAM

GENERAL PROGRAM INFORMATION

PROGRAM STATEMENT

The major purpose of this program is to develop graduates who desire to build environments that support academic achievement and stimulate student growth and development. This complex work requires skilled practitioners who are capable of working in conjunction with all members of the higher education community in a wide range of institutions. The philosophical position of the program is that preparation for practice in higher education requires a broad base of knowledge of the foundations of post-secondary education, including student development theories, theories on the organization and administration of higher education, issues of diversity, the practice of the academic profession, and techniques of assessment, evaluation, and research. The equivalent of two years of full-time academic study (nine credits per semester) is required to successfully complete this master's degree. Furthermore, students in our program choose one of three tracks or areas of emphasis: student affairs, academic affairs and service-learning. We are one of a very few, if not the only higher education program in the U.S. that offers a distinct emphasis on preparation for careers in service-learning and community engagement.

PROGRAM MISSION

This master's degree in higher education prepares professionals for careers in the administration of colleges and universities. Although the program emphasizes that all students must gain knowledge in the general administration of institutions of higher education as well as student affairs administration, students can choose one of three tracks to emphasize: higher education administration, student affairs, or service learning. In the context of all tracks, the following 12 core competencies related to higher education must be studied: history, governance structures, finance, administrative management, leadership, law, student learning and development, research methods, academic profession, diversity, technology, and policy. The program endeavors to equip each participant with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in a profession which requires personal integrity, belief in the dignity and worth of individuals, respect for individual differences and diversity, a commitment to service, and dedication to the development of individuals and the college community through education.

Each student completes a core of foundation courses, a series of professional studies, a practicum of supervised practice, and a final project. Student progress is assessed each semester through regular meetings of the faculty. Since there is constant emphasis on linking theory to practice, collaboration between students and faculty on research projects, papers, and presentations is stressed. The faculty members work closely with the students on developing strong linkages with a range of professional associations, and faculty members are active on the boards of regional and national professional groups that set standards for professional preparation and practice in higher education. In addition, the faculty works closely with the campus's Provost and the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and their staff members to insure coordination of course work, the current issues and needs of higher education, and the student populations being served.

PROGRAM UNIQUENESS

UMass is ideally situated in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, with close links to Smith, Mt. Holyoke, Amherst, and Hampshire Colleges (via the 5 College Consortium). Students may complete practica and take courses at these institutions, or use the resources of several other colleges within a short commute. We are one of, if not the only higher education administration program that offers an emphasis on careers in service-learning and community engagement as well as student affairs and academic administration.

NATIONAL STANDARDS
Meets ACPA Professional Preparation Commission Standards: YES
Meets CAS Standards:
Other/Comments:

APPLICATION AND ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

• GPA Requirement: 3.0
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Deadline: January 15

CURRICULUM INFORMATION

Program Curriculum:

• Proseminars (6 credits)
• Foundations (3 credits)
• Research (3 credits)
• Professional Courses in Higher Education (18 credits)
• Practicum (3 credits)
• Integrative Seminar (3 credits)

Is a thesis required? No. Integrative Project is required

STUDENT DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION - Students in student affairs or higher education administration programs (2005-2006):

PROGRAM FACULTY (Name, title, typical number of coursed taught annually, interests)

Associated Faculty

Scott Brown, Director, Career Development Center, Mt. Holyoke College; Courses Taught – 1, Interests – student development theory, career services

Charles DiMare, Director, Student Legal Service, UMass; Courses Taught – 2, Interests – higher education law, student leadership

Michael Gargano, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, UMass; Interests – student life, orientation, athletics

John Lombardi, Chancellor, UMass; Courses Taught – 1, Interests – higher education management

Martha Stassen, Director, Academic Assessment and Planning, UMass; Courses Taught – 1, Interests – student outcomes assessment

Last modified October 4, 2007
Information submitted by: Gary Malaney

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