Master's Degree in Higher Education
Who is this program for?
A master’s program in higher education is ideal for individuals passionate about shaping academic institutions and supporting student success. Graduates often pursue careers as university administrators, academic advisors, or policy analysts, specializing in areas like student affairs, higher education leadership, and institutional development.
Program Overview
This master’s program serves those contemplating careers in higher education or already working in a college or university. It may also be organized as a foundation for doctoral study.
Students may choose:
1) to examine the history, sociology, philosophy, and/or comparative and international analyses of post-secondary settings, broadly defined; or
2) to concentrate their studies in a specific aspect of the field of higher education, including student affairs, administration and leadership, law and policy, comparative and international studies, or academic affairs. This degree program is also compatible with a number of graduate certificates, including Comparative and International Education and Research Methods in Education.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Deadlines
Domestic
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/12/2025
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Summer
- 04/18/2026
International
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!

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Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.