Higher Education Master’s Programs Online: Finding the Right School

Popular Online Higher Education MEd Programs

FAQs from Prospective Higher Education MEd Students

Q: Why is accreditation important for an online MEd in Higher Education?

A: Accreditation is crucial because it ensures your degree is recognized for its quality and rigor. Attending an accredited university means the program meets standards for curriculum, faculty, and student support. This matters to employers — many will only hire candidates with degrees from accredited institutions. Accreditation is also required for you to receive federal financial aid and for easy credit transfer if you pursue further education.

Q: Do I need a license or certification after earning an MEd in Higher Education?

A: Generally, no license is required to work in most higher education administration or student services roles. Unlike K-12 teaching or school counseling (which often require state certification), higher ed jobs — such as admissions, academic advising, or student affairs — do not have a mandated licensing exam. The MEd in Higher Ed is typically a non-licensure degree meant to build professional skills for roles that don’t require state credentials. That said, if you aim to work in a field like college counseling or a K-12 setting, you may need separate licensure or certification. But for the majority of postsecondary education careers, your graduate degree and experience will be what you need to advance, rather than a license.

Q: Can I work full-time while studying for my MEd in Higher Education online?

A: Yes — most online MEd students do work full-time as these programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Online courses are typically asynchronous (meaning you can watch lectures and do coursework on your own schedule) and part-time friendly. Time management is key, but schools provide support — from academic advisors to flexible professors — to help you balance work, life, and study. In short, you can keep your day job while earning this degree, and your professional context will enrich your learning (and vice versa).

Q: What are the typical admissions requirements for an online MEd in Higher Education?

A: Admissions criteria are similar across reputable programs. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college (in any discipline, not necessarily education). Most programs expect a minimum GPA, and you’ll submit official transcripts from all colleges attended. Usually, 2–3 letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and personal essay is also commonly required. Many schools also ask for a current résumé detailing your work and any relevant experience. The GRE is sometimes optional or waived for online MEd programs. If you’re an international applicant, you’ll need TOEFL/IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

Q: Are internships or practical experiences required in an online MEd in Higher Education?

A: It depends on the program. Many MEd in Higher Education programs do include a practicum or internship component, but not all. Internships are common because they provide real-world experience in a higher ed setting. Some programs (especially those targeting current higher ed employees) may allow you to do a project at your current job instead, or they might have an optional internship. Fully online students typically arrange internships at a college near them; you won’t usually be required to travel to campus. If an internship is required, the school will help you plan it, and it’s a great opportunity to build your network.

Online Higher Education MEd Costs

How much will a Higher Education MEd cost? The answer varies widely by institution and your residency status. Online MEd programs in Higher Ed typically charge tuition on a per-credit basis. Keep in mind, online students often save on relocation, housing, and commuting costs — a significant benefit. Some schools charge no out-of-state premium for online learners, making pricing more straightforward. Beyond tuition, budget for fees (technology fees, online program fees) and course materials. Financial aid is usually available for online programs, including loans and sometimes scholarships or tuition discounts.

Note: The “Cost per Credit” above is current as of 2025. Always check the latest tuition information on the school’s website, as rates can change annually. These figures do not include additional fees or supplies.

After Graduation: Careers with an MEd in Higher Education

Earning your MEd in Higher Education opens up a variety of fulfilling career paths in colleges, universities, and even beyond academia. This degree is all about leadership and expertise in postsecondary education — so you’ll be qualified not only for advanced roles on campus, but also for positions in educational nonprofits, government agencies, and EdTech companies. Below, we highlight three promising careers for MEd in Higher Ed holders to consider:

Higher Education Administrator (Postsecondary Education Administrator)

What They Do: As a postsecondary education administrator, you’ll plan and manage critical aspects of college operations — from recruiting and enrolling students to overseeing residence life or academic programs. This broad category includes roles like university registrar, director of admissions, financial aid director, academic dean, or student affairs director. 

Why It’s a Great Path: If you enjoy leadership, problem-solving, and making educational institutions run smoothly, a career as a higher education administrator can be both lucrative and rewarding.

Salary and Outlook: The median annual salary is around $103,960 with a 3% projected increase from 2023-2033.

Training and Development Manager

What They Do: In this career, you might work in a college’s HR department, a large corporation, a healthcare system, or any organization that values learning. You’d be identifying skill gaps, developing learning strategies, and measuring the impact of training programs. You would oversee employee training programs, professional development initiatives, or educational projects for an organization. 

Why It’s a Great Path: If you have a knack for teaching adults and a strategic mindset, this path can take your MEd skills beyond the campus and into high-paying leadership roles in learning and development.

Salary and Outlook: The median annual salary is about $125,040 with a projected growth of 7% for the next 10 years (2023-2033).

Academic Advisor or Career Counselor

What They Do: Academic advisors (sometimes called student success coaches) help college students select courses, choose majors, and navigate academic requirements, while career counselors guide students or alumni in career planning, resumes, and job searches. 

Why It’s a Great Path: It offers other rewards: direct impact on students’ lives, a clear sense of purpose, and lots of personal interaction. These roles are hands-on and student-centered, which is perfect if you’re passionate about mentoring and education.

Salary and Outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual salary of $65,140 for May 2024 with a projected growth rate of 4%.

Best Online MEd Programs in Higher Education

To help you choose the best online MEd in Higher Education, we’ve compiled a data-driven ranking of top programs across the country. Our methodology is based on tuition affordability, accreditation, online learning formats, and the quality of student services like academic advising and career counseling. Explore the rankings to discover which program can best meet your needs and help launch your higher ed career to new heights.