College of Human Development, Culture, and Media
Seton Hall University’s Master of Arts in Education (M.A.E.) in Higher Education and Student Affairs is designed for individuals seeking leadership roles in colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions.
This flexible, two-year graduate program offers two concentrations — College Student Personnel Affairs and General Administration — allowing students to focus their studies on student affairs or higher education administration. With small class sizes, evening courses, and options for full- or part-time study, the program is ideal for working professionals or recent graduates looking to advance their careers in higher education.
Offered through Seton Hall’s Department of Education Leadership, Management and Policy (ELMP), the program emphasizes core values such as excellence, service, equity, and ethical leadership. Students receive personalized academic advising and benefit from a supportive learning environment designed to prepare them for real-world impact in student affairs and administration.
Accreditation & Awards
"We have highly dedicated faculty members who have expertise in multiple areas, including policy, student affairs, organization, governance and finance."
Admissions Requirements
The M.A.E. in Higher Education and Student Affairs program accepts applications throughout the year on a rolling admissions basis.
- Online Application
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Current professional vitae/resume
- Letter of intent outlining your personal and professional goals
- Two (2) letters of recommendation
A decision regarding your application will be made approximately six (6) weeks after the deadline. If you are accepted but all classes are full, you will automatically be placed on a waiting list for the next year, or for the upcoming session, if openings become available.
Deadlines
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Fall Semester
March 15
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Spring Semester
October 15
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Summer Semester
March 15
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Curriculum Overview
The M.A.E. in Higher Education and Student Affairs requires a minimum of 30 credits to complete and provides a balanced mix of academic theory and practical experience. Both concentrations include field-based learning and internship opportunities to strengthen students’ professional readiness.
College Student Personnel Affairs Concentration
Ideal for those pursuing careers in student services, residential life, orientation, academic advising, or diversity and inclusion, this concentration focuses on student development theory, higher education policy, and the foundations of student affairs leadership.
General Administration Concentration
Geared toward future leaders in university operations, this track prepares students for roles in enrollment management, institutional research, athletics administration, alumni relations, fundraising, and financial or accreditation management. Courses explore legal and financial issues, governance, and strategic planning in higher education.
All students complete a three-credit internship involving 150–180 hours of hands-on experience in a higher education setting. Internships provide real-world exposure to student affairs or administrative functions and include portfolio development, faculty advisement, and goal-setting assignments tailored to each student’s professional interests.
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30
Credits
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2
Years to Complete
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150–180
Internship Hours
Empowering Future Leaders
Our M.A.E. program prepares students to become influential leaders, making a significant impact in the higher education arena.
Career Opportunities
Earning a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Seton Hall University prepares graduates for meaningful and influential careers in colleges, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit or policy organizations.
Graduates leave the program ready to take on leadership roles across student affairs, enrollment management, academic advising, residential life, diversity and inclusion, institutional research and beyond. They are equipped to navigate complex organizational structures, manage teams, and implement initiatives that enhance the student experience and advance institutional goals.
Seton Hall alumni are known for their professionalism, ethical leadership and ability to adapt to the evolving needs of higher education. Many go on to secure roles as directors, deans and senior administrators, where they help shape strategic decisions, drive policy and lead with a student-centered approach.
With a reputation for producing capable and committed professionals, Seton Hall’s program opens doors to a wide range of career paths in both traditional and emerging areas of higher education leadership.
$130,520
Annual median wage for postsecondary education administrators in NJ (bls.gov)
3%
Strong Anticipated Employment Growth (bls.gov)
1:1
Academic & Career Advising
Our graduates make an impact at world-class institutions.
Our Faculty and Students
Outstanding Faculty Honored at Annual Excellence Awards
Higher Education Graduate Student Association Celebrates Community and Accomplishments
Trailblazing in Education and Advocacy: Alumna Inspires the Next Generation of Global Leaders
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Seton Hall University is committed to providing students with the most current information on how to finance your graduate degree. A graduate degree is within your reach – a variety of options can help you finance your degree including scholarships, federal aid, graduate assistantships, and more.
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50%
Amount Scholarships Can Reduce Cost of Degree
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the two concentrations offered in the M.A.E. program?
Can I complete the program while working full-time?
Are internships required as part of the program?
Where can I access additional FAQ's?
Additional Resources
Higher Education Graduate Student Association (HEGSA)
Office of Fieldwork and Certification
Request More Information
Office of Graduate Affairs
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About Seton Hall
One of the country's leading Catholic Universities, Seton Hall University has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856.
Home to over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 90 undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs, Seton Hall's academic excellence has been singled out for distinction by The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and Bloomberg Businessweek.
Seton Hall's 58-acre campus in the quaint town of South Orange, New Jersey, is only 14 miles from New York City — offering students a wealth of employment, internship, cultural and entertainment opportunities. The University’s nationally recognized School of Law is located in nearby Newark, New Jersey. The Interprofessional Health Sciences (IHS) campus in the owns of Clifton and Nutley, New Jersey, houses the University’s College of Nursing and School of Health and Medical Sciences.
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1856
Founded by James Roosevelt Bayley
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14
Miles from New York City
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90+
Career-Building Graduate Programs
