Best Online Program for Higher Ed/Academic Affairs????

LaughinWillow
Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:55:50 +0000

Hi there,

I’m hoping some folks here can give me input/advice as I’m looking at grad schools and programs - feeling very confused at this point.

I currently work in a college campus library in Pennsylvania - I am in charge of interlibrary loan, and supervise a team of student workers. I have a masters in rehab counseling, but discovered too late that I chose the wrong major. What I would really like is to move into student services. I would specifically love academic advising, and initially considered going Kansas State’s online academic advising program. I’ve met with our campus student affairs folks here, however, and they advise getting a more flexible degree in Higher Ed Administration or Academic Affairs, which I think was good advice and so I’m looking at schools with those programs. The college I work for does not offer grad degrees in these areas. I would like to complete an online masters program, though I’m open to one that requires some time on campus if its within driving distance.

I wonder if anyone can recommend (or not, as the case may be) online programs in Student Services or High Ed Administration? Right now I’ve looked at Messiah College, Drexel, and Colorodo State. Messiah seems to be the least expensive and requires fewer credits, which is a huge plus for me after already completing one masters. I know Messiah is considered a good undergraduate institution, but not sure what its grad reputation is. Drexel is considered an overall solid school around here. And I’m considering Colorado simply because my husband and I have discussed moving here in the next few years, so it seems it could be helpful to be an alum.

I wonder if anyone can recommend other programs I should consider, or comment on which specific degree is best for someone who wants to get into working directly with students in a helping role (as opposed to actually administrating the college itself, which I am not particularly interested in)? I appreciate any and all input!!! Thank you so much for reading!