University of Kentucky®
Master's Degree (MSEd) in
Higher Education
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 31
CREDENTIALS MSEd Degree
COST PER CREDIT
$790.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Master's Degrees
- Higher Education (MSEd)
About this Program
The University of Kentucky’s online Master of Science in Higher Education prepares professionals to lead, support, and innovate within colleges, universities, and postsecondary organizations. Designed for working professionals and aspiring higher education leaders, this fully online program explores the policies, practices, and evolving challenges shaping higher education today.
Students examine topics including leadership, student development, organizational dynamics, higher education policy, administration, and equity in postsecondary education while developing practical skills that can be applied immediately in professional settings. The program combines a strong theoretical foundation with real-world application, helping graduates prepare for careers that support student success, institutional effectiveness, and educational leadership across higher education environments.
As a fully online program, students can continue working while completing coursework in a flexible learning environment designed to fit busy schedules. The curriculum builds knowledge of the historical, philosophical, organizational, and social dimensions of higher education while allowing students to explore concentration areas aligned with their professional interests.
This degree program is also compatible with a number of graduate certificates, including Comparative and International Education and Research Methods in Education.
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
Designed For
This program is ideal for professionals currently working in higher education or those seeking to begin or advance careers in colleges, universities, student affairs, academic administration, enrollment management, or related educational settings. It is also well suited for individuals interested in leadership roles that support student success, institutional operations, and educational policy.
What You’ll Learn
Students in the Master of Science in Higher Education program will develop knowledge and skills in:
- Higher education leadership and administration
- Student development and student success strategies
- Organizational leadership and decision-making
- Higher education policy and governance
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion in postsecondary education
- College student affairs and support services
- Institutional planning and administration
- Research and analytical approaches in higher education
- Ethical and legal issues in higher education
- Communication and leadership within educational organizations
- Historical and philosophical foundations of higher education
- Practical problem-solving for contemporary higher education challenges
Course Examples
- EPE 612 Introduction to Higher Education
- EPE 653 History of Higher Education
- EPE 676 Organization & Administration of HIED
- EPE 601 Proseminar
- 3 credit hours of an approved research course
- 9 credit hours in the student's focus area
- 9 credit hours of electives
GOT QUESTIONS?
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How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
- UK Graduate School Application
- Official transcripts for all previous course work completed at any institution of higher education,
- A 500 word statement of purpose describing the student’s intellectual and professional goals for completing the program
- Two letters of reference with at least one from a referee familiar with the students’ academic work
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
Program Contact
Deadlines
Fall 2026
Spring 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
What is the admission criteria?
Admission Criteria is located on each Program Page under the section titled "How to Apply".
Tuition
Are scholarships or financial aid available for online students?
Yes! Online students enrolled in a degree-bearing program are eligible to receive financial aid and scholarships. Learn more at https://studentsuccess.uky.edu/financial-aid-and-scholarships
What tuition assistance is available for graduate students?
Graduate students should review the Student Funding information available through the Graduate School. Specific programs may offer additional funding that is unique to that program. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in the department in which you wish to enroll with questions about the availability of assistantships and the application process.
I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?
For our fully online programs, state of residence does not affect tuition rate. Tuition is the same no matter where you live.
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
Is there a tuition cap?
Yes! For graduate students who enroll full-time (9+ credit hours) exclusively in a distance education program, will receive a capped tuition rate. To see the current term’s capped tuition rate, please visit https://www.uky.edu/studentaccount/tuition and look for “Graduate Students Enrolled Exclusively in Distance Education Courses -- full-time.” This is the per semester rate you will pay when enrolled for 9 or more credit hours. Please note, this rate only applies to programs using the standard graduate tuition rate.
Online Learning
Will my degree say “online”?
No, you are awarded the same diploma from UK as students who take classes in-person. There is no denotation of “online” on your diploma or your transcripts.
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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