Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs (PASA) program will equip you with a broad understanding of the key aspects of higher education administration, including student affairs, student development, legal issues, identity and diversity and the history of higher education. You will select three focus courses that align with your interests or career goals.

Through this program, you will:

• Prepare for a variety of roles in higher education.
• Learn to advance educational equity for historically marginalized students. 
• Interact with one of the most diverse cohorts on campus. 
• Learn from leading professors and practitioners who will support your professional growth and challenge your perspective.
   

Curriculum

The PASA program prepares you to meet industry-established competencies for student affairs professionals developed by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). The curriculum includes core courses, a variety of focus courses and a capstone project.

Capstone

The capstone project will strengthen your ability to use evidence-based arguments to influence others and advocate for student needs. During your first semester, you will select an existing problem in student affairs to address. After conducting research in the research methods course, you will complete your project during the capstone course. Your work, which will be peer-reviewed and receive regular feedback from your professor, will culminate in an oral presentation at a symposium.

Graduate Assistant Positions

Graduate assistant positions provide hands-on experience in higher education settings and preparation for your desired career. While the majority of PASA students obtain graduate assistant positions on the USC campus, the city of Los Angeles is home to many colleges and universities. Graduate assistant positions are often compensated by an hourly wage, tuition remission, or, in the case of residential education, room and board.

With the support and guidance of our team, you can select and apply for paid and unpaid opportunities tailored to your personal goals throughout your time in the program. However, we recommend that you first interview for opportunities at the annual USC Rossier Preview Day for incoming students.

Scholarships

As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for limited, merit-based scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. There is no need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. The admission committee selects recipients based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is given to those who apply by the Rossier Scholarship Deadline. All USC Rossier scholarships are awarded at the time of admission. 

View USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify other scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the final program application deadline.

Financial Aid

The USC Office of Student Financial Aid provides information regarding various types of financial aid and financing options.

To be considered for financial aid, you must apply for the FAFSA. After you apply, the financial aid office will determine your financial need and inform you of the federal or private loans that are available to you.

Career Outcomes

Our graduates work at public and private colleges and universities in a variety of departments and roles. Other graduates enter PhD and EdD programs immediately, often working in the field full-time or part-time as they earn their doctorate.

Our graduates work in programs and departments including:

• Academic advising
• Orientation and new student programming
• Residential life/housing
• Student advocacy and judicial affairs
• Greek life 
• Campus activities and student organizations
• Athletic programs
• Student life and leadership 
• Multicultural affairs 
• Diversity, equity and inclusion programs