Higher Education
Prospective Students
At UF, we understand that every prospective graduate student has unique preferences and needs when considering their higher education degree options. That is why we offer master’s and doctoral programs to accommodate in-person and online learners. Whether you prefer a traditional classroom setting or the flexibility of online education, we have higher education degree options to suit your schedule, location and learning needs.
Explore our programs today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in this rapidly evolving field. If you have questions about pursuing a higher education degree, be sure to contact us.
On-Campus Ph.D.
Doctorate Program
The Ph.D. program is ideal for future faculty members and policymakers looking to engage in scholarship and develop a research agenda.
Graduates of this program work in policy, research and faculty positions within state and national education agencies, non-profits and postsecondary institutions throughout the world.
Entry: Fall
Typical Course Load: Varies
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time or part-time
Average Class Size: 10-15 students
Application Deadline: January 14
Program Completion: About 4 years (full-time)
Hybrid Ed.D.
Doctorate Program
Our Ed.D. hybrid degree is specifically tailored for the needs of working higher education leaders. Our practitioner-focused curriculum is taught by a combination of full-time UF faculty and practitioner affiliate faculty, providing the unique opportunity to learn from cutting-edge scholars and leaders in the field.
We prepare graduates who earn their higher education degree from this program to enter senior leadership positions.
Entry: Spring of even years
Typical Course Load: 6 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-time
Average Class Size: 25-30 students
Application Deadline: July 1, 2025 (the next cohort begins in January 2026)
Program Completion: 4 years
On-Campus M.Ed.
Master’s Program
The on-campus Student Personnel in Higher Education program is ideal for students who want to work in student affairs or related roles in higher ed. We emphasize an immersive approach combining classroom learning and practical experience.
Graduates who earn their master’s degree from this program work in student affairs and similar positions at colleges and universities around the world.
Entry: Fall
Typical Course Load: 9 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time
Average Class Size: 15-25 students
Application Priority Deadline: December 1
Application Final Deadline: December 15
Program Completion: 2 years
Online M.Ed.
Master’s Program
The UF Student Personnel in Higher Education (SPHE) online program is part-time and job-embedded. It is best suited for professionals currently working in a student affairs or campus staff position in higher education.
Online students complete practicum experiences to broaden their knowledge while earning their higher education degree.
Typical Course Load: 6 credits per semester
Full-Time/Part-Time: Part-time with summers required
Average Class Size: 15-20 students
Application Deadline: March 1
Program Completion: 2 years