Frequently Asked Questions

We expect a master's degree and at least 3-5 years successful work experience in the field of higher education (preferably post-master's.) However, we recognize that prospective students likely come from a variety of backgrounds and professional experiences. If you would like to discuss your own profile, please call.

No. There are many different master's degrees that might provide a solid base for this doctoral program.

No, this degree is a post-master's degree. However, if you have completed recent coursework that very closely mirrors the content of a required class, you may seek the support of the instructor and petition the HeSA Department Chairperson to be able to waive the required course.

We admit a new cohort of students each fall and part-time students may begin any term following admission. We encourage you to apply prior to December 1 of the year you seek to be admitted, so as to allow plenty of time to be considered and make appropriate arrangements. However, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and will be accepted as close to the date of entrance as is practical for the admission committee and the prospective student.

The HIED program is fortunate to have an on-going relationship with a number of potential assistantship sites, typically at least as many as we have entering full-time students. Prospective students must interview with these supervisors and receive an offer to secure a graduate assistantship. We will coordinate the interview process for invited prospective students who apply by December 1 by arranging an Interview Weekend (known as I-Days) early in the spring semester. Those applications reviewed after the Interview Weekend will receive help but will need to arrange interviews directly with the assistantship sites. We do our best to help each admitted student find an assistantship that provides the best fit.

The program is designed so that it is possible to complete in three years for full-time enrollment and 5-7 years for part-time students.

As the title of the degree might imply, the focus of the program is to prepare administrators in higher education; however, the degree might be used in a number of related fields as well. One way to get a sense of the variety is to go to our Alumni page and look at the job titles of our graduates.

The stated criteria are outlined on the application page and include the best fit between the Program and the student in the areas of career goals, academic preparation and ability, and background experiences. The committee will consider this in light of your application materials, references, and (if invited) a personal interview.

Yes, the HIED program includes full-time and part-time students. Some students enter as full-time or part-time while others may change their status over the course of the program.

For the 2022 school year the GRE and application fee have been waived for domestic students. See the graduate college website for more information.

*The HESA department is in the process of revamping this requirement; please contact Patrick Pauken (paukenp@bgsu.edu) to discuss your opinions.