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How long will it take to complete a master's degree? Can I go part time?
The master's degree programs are all around 33 credits (see the specific program and focus area for detailed information) and can be completed in just over two years if taking two classes in both Fall and Spring semesters, and one class in each of three Summer semesters. However, many of our students pursue their master's part time allowing them time to work or fulfill other responsibilities.
How long have the master's programs in Administrative Leadership department been around?
Our face-to-face programs have been offered for the last 40 years. We have been offering online courses and programs for the past six years.
Is it possible to just take some master's degree classes, but not commit to the entire degree program?
A non-degree application can be used to register for an initial course and the full-application process can be completed at a later time. By becoming a non-degree candidate (NDC), you can take credits prior to admission and have them count toward the degree. More information on non-degree candidacy can be found at the NDC Admission page of the Graduate School Web site.
Do I have to take the GRE?
No, you do not need to take the GRE for admission to our programs. However, if your undergraduate grade point average is less than a 2.75, submission of official score reports of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) may provide satisfactory evidence of ability to do graduate level work, which may allow you to be admitted on probation.
Can I transfer credits from another educational institution and have them count toward my degree?
Students who wish to transfer credits from other campuses to their UWM programs must fill out a Graduate Transfer Credit Evaluation Form. The application should be completed during the first semester following admission, or as soon as possible following completion of such a course. Up to 12 graduate credits may be transferred with the approval of the Graduate School and departmental advisor.
I have questions about paying for college. How much is the tuition? Is it different for an online degree program?
Tuition rates vary from semester to semester, so for the current costs, please visit http://www.bfs.uwm.edu/fees. The tuition rate for three-credit, online courses designated as part of the online program will be set up as a "Special Course Fee," which is equivalent to the off-campus, resident, graduate student tuition rate for three-credit courses. This Special Course Fee will be the only charge assessed for the course. The Special Course Fee will apply to all students (including out-of-state and international students) enrolled in that course, and will be in addition to tuition and/or fees for any other classes in which the student is enrolled.
Are there any sorts of financial aid or scholarships available? Financial support is available to students through a variety of fellowships, assistantships, student employment, awards/scholarships, and financial aid. Detail on financial support can be found here >>
What is the due date for applications to your program? When can I start the coursework?
How long will it take to process my application?
Unless you are a current UWM student, processing of the application generally takes six to ten weeks. The processing time is partially dependent on the time it takes the Graduate School to receive non-UWM transcripts and other documents (e.g., reasons statement, application fee). The Graduate School will process the application after they have received all required documents.
What kinds of careers will a master’s degree in Higher Education prepare me for?
This program prepares the student for careers in higher education including such options as student advisors, managers of support programs for traditionally underrepresented students, student housing specialists, student programming specialists, business managers, and specific administrative positions at all levels within higher education organizations.
How is online learning comparable to classroom learning? Is a student with the online degree at a deficit compared to a student with the live/classroom degree?
There is a large research base that indicates the outcomes for learning in online and distance programs are comparable to face-to-face programs. In our online program, a student will have contact with our entire graduate faculty, receive the same degree, take the same courses, and have to meet the same expectations as face-to-face students. The degree is also from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is the same degree that face-to-face students receive, so there is no disadvantage.
Do you offer a Ph.D. program as well, or is it just master's degree program?
We do not offer a Ph.D. program in Higher Education. However, the Urban Education Doctoral Program (UEDP) offers other specializations that may be of interest. The Ph.D. in Urban Education is designed to integrate a particular area of specialization with the broader field of urban education. Graduates apply their skills in a variety of settings--institutions of higher education, public or private school settings, federal, state or local government agencies, community organizations, and the private sector.
