Prepare to Lead in Higher Education

The key to the vitality of higher educational institutions is dedicated, energetic, and highly qualified leaders in student affairs. Professionals in admissions, residence life, student activities, campus ministry, financial aid and academic advising work side-by-side with faculty and staff to create a dynamic learning environment for all students. Through collective efforts, the people of a campus make the unique mission and culture of their college, community college or university come alive.

If you are one of those special people who see a career in higher education student affairs in your future, you are invited to consider a degree in student affairs leadership at St. Thomas. Here you will join other professionals interested in shaping the future of student affairs practice, particularly in liberal arts, residential, values-oriented colleges and universities.

Collaborative Design

This program was designed through a collaborative effort of student affairs vice presidents, deans of students and other student affairs leaders from Bethel University, the College of St. Catherine, Hamline University and Macalester College along with the faculty of the Leadership, Policy and Administration Department at the University of St. Thomas.

Living Program

This group created an advisory committee with representatives from each of these institutions that keeps its hand on the pulse of higher education and the changing needs of student affairs professionals by continuously improving the program.

The master’s program, designed by practicing student affairs professionals and university faculty, combines a theoretical approach with current best practices. It is designed for students seeking to join other professionals interested in shaping the future of student affairs practice, particularly in liberal arts, residential, values-oriented colleges and universities.

Modified Cohort Learning Model

Because learning to be a leader means developing relationships with a variety of people, the course sequence has been designed to foster a cohort community. Master’s degree students admitted each year for a fall semester start are encouraged to follow the course sequence with their cohort of colleagues. The program offers flexibility, however, for students whose work arrangements or personal situations require special consideration.

This master’s program will prepare you to:

• Engage in organizational leadership and systemic change.
• Recognize cultural, economic and political contexts of higher education.
• Contribute to a respectful learning environment that is sensitive to race, class, gender and special needs of learners.
• Foster relationship-centered integrated learning.
• Deepen spiritual and ethical commitments.