Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs (online)

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs online (PASA online) program equips you with a broad understanding of higher education administration and student affairs in areas of development, legal issues, identity, and diversity. Students have the opportunity to choose from focus courses aligned with their interests and career goals. focus courses that align with your interests or career goals.

Through this program, you will:

• Be equipped to take on integral roles in higher education.
• Pave the way for advancing educational equity for traditionally underrepresented students. 
• Engage and foster community among one of the most diverse cohorts of students.
• Learn from experienced faculty who are expert practitioners in their fields.

Curriculum

The PASA online program curriculum is designed based on industry-established competencies 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 allow you to strengthen your research skills, advocacy skills and address student needs. You will choose a problem-of-practice, conduct in-depth research, and present your findings in a research symposium.

Graduate Assistant Positions

Apply theory-to-practice through optional graduate assistant positions. Gain hands-on experience in higher education. Graduate assistant positions are posted at the beginning of the academic year. A majority of PASA students attain graduate assistant positions within the USC campus, but through our extensive network you will have the opportunity to seek out opportunities at other colleges and universities.

Scholarships

As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for several USC Rossier scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. There are no separate scholarship applications for these scholarship opportunities. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is provided to early applicants.

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 excel in diverse roles across public and private higher education institutions. While others continue to pursue research opportunities through PhD or EdD programs.

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