We will no longer accept new enrollments beginning Spring 2026.

However, please rest assured that current students are fully supported and will be able to complete their degree as planned. If you’re actively enrolled, your coursework, advising, and graduation path remain unchanged . Program requirements can be found here. Current students should reach out to their academic advisor with any questions about their academic plan.

At a Glance

  • 100% online coursework
  • Hands-on capstone with mentorship component
  • Pursue an optional internship at our New York City or Westchester campus
  • Curriculum in alignment with NASPA competencies
  • Expert faculty with decades of experience

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  • Next Start Date: N/A*
  • Application Deadline: N/A

*Course start and end dates as well as withdrawal deadlines vary for the summer term based on which courses you plan to register for. Please contact an academic advisor for exact dates that are specific to your academic plan.

Whether you are currently employed in higher education or an aspiring practitioner, the 100% online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs provides students with the know-how to strategically shape university policies in ways that encourage an accessible and resourceful academic culture.

Ranked as one of the Best Online Education programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, our curriculum was designed to address contemporary topics in higher education and student affairs. Online MA HEASA students gain in-depth knowledge of the structures, policies and legal issues faced by higher education leaders. Pace University designed these practical elements of its program to align with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) competencies for the field of student affairs, empowering graduates with skills they can immediately apply to their careers.

Top 17%

of Best Online Master’s in Education Programs according to U.S. News & World Report

Practical Skills for Leaders

Students in the program also develop the critical thinking and research skills required to understand how institutional structures, policies, and practices impact the decisions students from varying socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds make throughout their academic journey.

“The MA in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs program gave me the knowledge and resources I needed to become a leader in my workplace. Through my coursework, I gained practical skills in areas such as budget management, college student development, and interpreting laws relevant to higher ed. This expertise has not only allowed me to thrive in my workplace but also helped me secure a promotion. I now regularly use what I learned in my day-to-day work, and I’ve even implemented some of the projects that I developed for course assignments.”

Sydney Tisch, MA HEASA, Assistant Director of Student Accessibility Services at Pace University

MA HEASA Program Benefits

  • Unique Learning Atmosphere The accessibility of online learning from a University that encompasses residential, urban-commuter, and online undergraduate, graduate, and professional certificate students.
  • Student Affairs-Based Curriculum Understand the theory and practice for admitting, enrolling, supporting, and maintaining a diverse and successful student body.
  • Experienced Practitioners Study with senior university leaders, faculty, and experts with decades of experience working with a wide variety of institutions, programs, and students.
  • A Century of Student Success Since 1906, Pace University has been providing innovative, applied curricula to a highly diverse student body, making Pace one of the top private colleges in the country for social mobility.
  • Same Quality as On-Campus Online students receive the same degree and support services as all of our on-campus students. From before they begin the program through graduation, students are provided with access to specialized orientation sessions and dedicated advisors.
  • No GMAT or GRE Accessible to working professionals from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds.

Hear directly from Hailey, an MA in HEASA graduate, about her experience in the program and how the curriculum has impacted her career.

Future-Focused Program Outcomes

Graduates of the online MA in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs will be well-prepared to address the growing challenges that universities face such as the need to balance cost efficiency and student outcomes and increasing pressure to develop rigorous assessment strategies. In their studies, they will gain confidence in their ability to meet performance objectives set forth by accreditation and government bodies.

MA HEASA students critically analyze the historical and social forces affecting underrepresented populations in higher education in order to develop an inclusive academic culture. The organizational decision-making responsibilities these professionals will be responsible for balance student engagement, retention, and operational efficiency. Graduates have the opportunity to develop their skills to fulfill these institutional needs and requirements with care and consideration for a large population of learners and educators.

Faculty with Real-World Experience in Higher Education

The experienced program faculty come together from across the University to guide students through retention and development theories, the economics and finance of higher education, and the current legal issues and implications leadership must consider. These seasoned administrators are adept at providing students with a practical application of what it means to create a living learning community.

“The MA in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs at Pace University provided me with deep insight into the world of higher ed. One of the program’s greatest benefits was its focus on external factors that shape student success, such as issues related to DEI, capital projects, and education law. In addition, I formed strong connections with my professors, who were both knowledgeable and passionate about their field of study. They taught me the intricate art of holistically supporting students on their individual journeys and empowering them to flourish throughout college—and beyond. I am extremely grateful to have earned my MA in HEASA at Pace!”

Rosan Patel, MA HEASA, Student Employment Specialist at New York University

Who Can Benefit from the Online MA HEASA?

No matter your location or professional background, MA HEASA students share one goal: to build future higher education leaders.

The program welcomes students seeking to enter the field, and bring a unique viewpoint to its challenges and opportunities. It is also well-suited for current higher education professionals who wish to expand their knowledge and advance their careers. Students from all backgrounds will have opportunities to examine the structures and fields within higher education and learn strategies for engaging and retaining students.

Career Paths for Graduates of Online Higher Education Master’s Programs

Graduates pursue roles such as:

  • Director of Student Affairs
  • Academic Advisor
  • Enrollment or Retention Specialist
  • Accessibility Services Administrator
  • Postsecondary Education Administrator

Postsecondary education administrators make an average annual salary of $94,340.

Bureau of Labor Statistics

The program focuses on the higher education system within the US and benefits from the perspectives of international students in understanding the successes and challenges of the American system.

96%

The percentage of Pace University master’s degree graduates who are employed or are continuing their education.

Get a glimpse of a typical day with Kate as she balances her responsibilities as a full-time student support specialist and student in the online MA in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs program.

Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend that working professionals complete the program part-time, taking two courses at a time.

There is no limit to the amount of time students are able to take to complete the degree.

Yes, MA HEASA students can complete the degree part-time while maintaining a full-time work schedule.

Graduates of this degree program are well-positioned to hold administrative and leadership roles at academic institutions, specifically colleges and universities. These professionals play a significant role in student retention, success, and mobility. Job titles include but are not limited to:

  • Dean of Admissions
  • Dean of Students
  • Director of Advising
  • Director of Alumni Relations
  • Director of Financial Aid
  • Director of Residential Life
  • Registrar
  • Title IX Officer
  • VP of Enrollment Management

No. Distance learners in the MA in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs program are not required to visit the campus, but are always welcome. Students are also invited to come to campus for graduation.

Though courses are primarily asynchronous, faculty and students may decide to work together synchronously through Brightspace Classes, our online learning platform.

For more information, visit the Pace MA HEASA FAQ page.