This program is not currently accepting applications. 

The Higher Education Administration graduate certificate program will develop you as a higher education leader in Minnesota, the nation or the world. The program will prepare you for leadership positions in four-year, community and technical colleges and universities. Whether you are interested in a future as a higher education administrator or you are working in higher education, you will receive a comprehensive study that explores academic affairs, student affairs and administrative affairs. 

Through the courses offered in the program you will develop the necessary knowledge, skills and dispositions for success in higher education administration. 

The 15-credit graduate certificate is designed for current and future professionals who want to gain leadership skills quickly.  It is also for individuals who already have a masters or doctoral degree in a non-related field who now wish to gain knowledge and skills for success in higher education administration.

Program Highlights

• A blend of online and face-to-face hybrid courses
• Flexible and accommodating to the needs of higher education leaders
• A practitioner-focused curriculum that provides scholarly coursework and practical experiences
• Students participate in a practicum in a college or university setting
• Students from around the world, including Fulbright scholars
• A cohort approach that builds a professional network
• Assistance with career promotion and job placement

Program Distinctions

• Hosts the annual Spring Leadership Institute, which offers current practices and research
• You can gain cross-cultural knowledge with an optional Education Abroad trip to Italy
• St. Cloud State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association

Student Organizations

• Graduate Student Organization
• Emerging College and University Professionals

Application Deadlines

Gainful Employment

Certain undergraduate and graduate certificates at St. Cloud State University prepare students for employment in specific fields and do not result in a degree. Federal law requires publication of data associated with those programs of study, including approximate program costs, program length, and employment statistics. The Minnesota State Chancellor's office has provided this report containing the aforementioned information for all required programs.

Applicants to this program must complete and attach the Gainful Employment Acknowledgement form as a part of their application for admission.