Considering a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration?
You’ll leave the program with a strong understanding of:
- Higher education structures and systems
- Equity and justice
- How to be a transformational leader
This program is a 60-credit doctoral degree focused on research and on higher education administration.
Higher Education Leadership Program Overview
HEL Program Coordinator Alex Lange, and Graduate Programs Coordinator Kelli Clark, provide an overview of the program, including:
- Program Structure
- Curriculum Overview
- Faculty, staff, and research interests
- Who HEL students are
- Application process and admissions
Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies Curriculum
Higher Education Leadership Specialization
Meet Your Goals With a Program That Fits Your Schedule
You’ll be able to apply what you’re learning in class to real-world situations, showing your current employer that you are committed to making an impact. Many of our students are promoted while still in the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my graduate assistantship count as professional experience?
To meet the program’s minimum admissions requirements, you must have at least two years of full-time professional work experience in a higher education institution setting or at least two years of full-time professional work experience within an organization that is engaged in work related to higher education. Unfortunately, graduate assistantships do not fulfill this requirement.
Is the GRE required?
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
How long will it take me to graduate?
The amount of time it takes to complete the program depends on you. Coursework takes 3.5 years to complete; since this is a cohort program, it is not possible to complete the coursework in less time. Once you’ve completed the coursework and successfully passed your preliminary examination, you will begin your dissertation – the amount of time this takes varies based on the student. You have ten years, from beginning coursework to finishing your dissertation, to complete the program. For more info on the general process of earning your doctorate, visit the Your Doctoral Journey page.
Are financial aid, scholarships, or assistantships offered?
Visit our Funding Opportunities for Graduate Students page for more information on paying for graduate school, including financial aid, scholarship and assistantship resources.
I see there is a requirement to come to campus twice per year in July and January. Do I have to travel to Colorado, or can I participate online?
You must travel to Colorado for the residential courses; they are not offered online.
How much does it cost?
Current tuition and fees for graduate students at CSU may be found on CSU’s financial aid website.
Can I keep working while I’m a student?
Yes! In fact, this program is designed for those who are employed full-time in roles on campuses and other institutions of higher learning. Your coursework will have opportunities for immediate application to your current role.
Higher Education Leadership Ph.D. Student Panel - Fall 2022
In this student panel, hosted by HEL student Eduardo Díaz, current HEL Ph.D. students explore the intricacies of the program and why they chose it. They discuss how students engage with faculty in and outside of class, how the program fits into their lives and current jobs, who should apply, and tips for prospective applicants and students.