Higher Education Administration — Student Life and Development Concentration

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Foreign:$ 64.3 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jan 1, 2026
201–250 place StudyQA ranking:10490 Duration:4 years

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The Higher Education Administration — Student Life and Development Concentration at the University of Miami is a comprehensive program designed to prepare future professionals for leadership roles in student affairs and university administration. This concentration equips students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles and practices essential for fostering positive student experiences, promoting student development, and enhancing campus life. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, practical internships, and collaborative projects, students gain valuable skills in areas such as student engagement, program planning, diversity and inclusion, leadership development, and campus policy management. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive, supportive, and vibrant campus communities that facilitate student success academically, socially, and personally. Students also explore contemporary issues facing higher education institutions, including technological advancements, mental health promotion, and equity initiatives, preparing them to address complex challenges within higher education settings. The program emphasizes experiential learning, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world contexts through partnership with university offices, student organizations, and community agencies. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in student affairs, residence life, orientation programs, student activities, and other areas of campus life. They emerge as effective leaders capable of fostering inclusive environments, supporting diverse student populations, and contributing to the overall development of the university community. The University of Miami’s strong network of alumni and industry connections further enhances students' career prospects, providing opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and placement in competitive positions within the higher education sector. This concentration is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on student lives and committed to advancing higher education practices through innovative and effective student development initiatives.

Major Courses  
WGS 201 Introduction to Women's and Gender Studies 3
WGS 301 Feminist Inquiries 3
Select six WGS courses at the 300 level or above 1 18
Select a minimum of two additional WGS core courses 6
Additional Required Courses  
ENG 105 English Composition I 3
ENG 106 English Composition II 3
MTH 108 Precalculus Mathematics II 3
UMX 100 The University Of Miami Experience 0
Language Requirement 9
STEM Cognate 9
Arts and Humanities Cognate 9
Minor Requirement 15
Electives 39
Total Credit Hours 120
1

All Majors have the option of completing WGS 501 (or WGS 505), which will take the form of an individual research project with a faculty member of the student's choice; the student is responsible for finding an appropriate faculty member who is available to supervise the project and then must seek formal approval from the program director before proceeding with the project. The student must produce a substantial written report or research paper, the format of which will vary according to the nature of the project.

*

A grade of C- or better in each course, with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 in WGS courses is required. 

  • Complete and submit the Common Application online. 
  • The University of Miami only accepts transcripts coming directly from the high school or college as official.
  • Send Official Test Scores
  • The School Report should be completed by the applicant’s high school guidance counselor and can be found on the Common Application website. It is typically submitted along with the applicant's high school transcript and a school profile. 
  • We require a letter of recommendation from your high school guidance counselor and a teacher evaluation. These can be submitted online through the Common Application or mailed.
  • TOEFL IBT 80, TOEFL Paper-based 550, IELTS 6.5

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

  • President's Scholarship
  • Canes Achievement Award
  • Premier Academic Scholarships and Amount

The Higher Education Administration — Student Life and Development Concentration at the University of Miami is designed to prepare students for leadership roles within college and university settings, focusing on fostering student engagement, development, and wellbeing. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to effectively manage student affairs and contribute to campus life enhancement. Students enrolled in this concentration are introduced to key concepts such as student development theory, organizational management, policy analysis, program planning, and assessment strategies. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through internships, workshops, and collaboration with university departments to ensure that graduates gain firsthand experience in student services administration, residence life management, student activities, and diversity initiatives.

The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges facing higher education institutions today, including issues related to diversity, inclusion, mental health, and student retention. Faculty members involved in this concentration are experienced professionals with backgrounds in student affairs, higher education policy, and organizational leadership. The coursework is designed to develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills essential for effective administration in dynamic academic environments. Additionally, students have access to a variety of resources such as student organizations, leadership training programs, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Graduates of this concentration often pursue careers as student affairs officers, residence hall directors, program coordinators, diversity officers, or academic advisors. They are well-prepared to work in various settings including colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions. The program emphasizes ethical practices, cultural competency, and lifelong learning to prepare students for ongoing professional development in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. Overall, the Higher Education Administration — Student Life and Development Concentration at the University of Miami aims to develop skilled leaders committed to enriching campus communities and supporting student success.

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