How may I obtain more information about the Higher Education program?

For information on our program please visit the department website. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Higher Education Department at bchighered@bc.edu.

What makes the Higher Education program at BC unique?

The program has three distinct Higher Education concentrations, Administration, Student Affairs and Spirituality, Faith, and Formation. The Student Affairs Concentration prepares students to work as student affairs professionals by helping them gain an understanding of the foundations of higher education and student affairs, along with the knowledge, skills, and experience to link theory and practice. The Administration Concentration is focused on law, policy, and administration and prepares students to work as professionals in colleges and universities as well as policy and advocacy organizations. The Spirituality, Faith, and Formation Concentration is designed to foster an understanding of higher education administration within Catholic colleges and universities.  Each concentration requires a year-long field experience which links theory and practice. Also, the social justice mission of Boston College sets the school apart from many competing colleges and universities. 

Is there a capstone to the program?

Students are required to take a comprehensive exam that test their knowledge of the core curriculum. The exam is written over one weekend during the fall or spring semester after students have completed their foundation and core requirements. Students also create an electronic portfolio.

If I cannot attend one of the Admission Open Houses, may I schedule an individual visit?

We do not require interviews for admission to the program, but prospective students are welcome to visit. During a visit, many students visit classes (while in session) and speak with current students on campus. Program faculty can also respond to prospective student questions via email. Please see the M.A. in Higher Education page for faculty contact information.  

How do I check the status of my application?

To check the status of your application, log on to the application portal at https://apply.bc.edu/apply 

What kind of financial assistance is available?

The Boston area is the perfect place for Higher Education therefore most of our students receive some sort of tuition help. Many of our students get graduate assistantships either on or off campus. Assistantships range in position type and compensation. Depending on the position, some assistantships include stipends, tuition remission, housing, board, or a combination of the above financial help.  Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions with questions about financial aid.

 Is an assistantship or field experience placement required during my program of study?

Students with less than 3 years of full-time professional work experience in higher education are required to take the Field Experience course which is centered on enhancing the application of your classroom studies.  Students spend 10-12 hours a week in their field experience placement for an entire academic year while taking the two-semester course.

How are students selected for their field experience placements?

Students interview as early as March for certain positions and hiring continues through late September for many of the positions.  Students can check the Higher Education Graduate Assistantship webpage, the Graduate Student Life webpage, or the Lynch School Graduate Student Services Office for up-to-date position postings

What is the best way to locate off-campus housing?

The Boston College Off-Campus Housing website and the Residence Life website are helpful resources. Students will also connect via social media or in-person at Interview Days or Accepted Students Day and learn about potential living situations and roommates.

May I work full-time while enrolled in the masters program?

Some students choose to work full-time during their program and take 1 or 2 courses per semester.  There is a five year window that you have to complete the program.