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Appalachian State University
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Organization Overview
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education and Student Affairs provides a pathway to professional employment, advancement, and leadership in community colleges, universities, transition programs, and community agencies. The 36-credit-hour program follows a cohort model with options for full- or part-time enrollment in in-person or online formats.
Grounded in the ACPA/NASPA Competencies for Student Affairs Educators, the curriculum integrates theory, research, and practice to develop reflective, equity-minded scholar-practitioners who foster student success and institutional effectiveness.
The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical application, providing opportunities for meaningful study, experiential learning, and career advancement. Course information can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.
Students typically complete the program in about two years, depending on enrollment status. Full-time students take three courses (9 credit hours) per semester; part-time students take two (6 credit hours). Individualized pacing is available through faculty advising.
Grounded in the ACPA/NASPA Competencies for Student Affairs Educators, the curriculum integrates theory, research, and practice to develop reflective, equity-minded scholar-practitioners who foster student success and institutional effectiveness.
The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical application, providing opportunities for meaningful study, experiential learning, and career advancement. Course information can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.
Students typically complete the program in about two years, depending on enrollment status. Full-time students take three courses (9 credit hours) per semester; part-time students take two (6 credit hours). Individualized pacing is available through faculty advising.
Andrew Koricich
Executive Director, Alliance for Research on Regional Colleges
Ashley Carpenter
PhD
Associate Professor
Candice Peters
Assistant Professor
Kelsey Kunkle
Assistant Professor
Stacey D. Garrett
Associate Professor and Department Chair
Degrees and Programs
MA Higher Education & Student Affairs
Are any programs offered online?
No
Program Contact Name and Role
Dr. Jason Lynch, Associate Professor & Program Director
Program Contact Email
lynchrj@appstate.edu
Program Contact Phone Number
828-262-8095