Prepare for a career as a college and university administrator, institutional researcher, policy analyst, and faculty member.
Coursework emphasizes research and theory including in-depth exploration of an academic discipline which is typically selected outside the School of Education.
The program has relatively few required courses, allowing you more freedom to specialize in areas of interest. There is also a strong set of inquiry (methodology) courses required. A strong background in inquiry is essential for careers in institutional research, policy analysis, or as faculty.
Doctoral dissertations are required to have a strong theoretical orientation. Ph.D. students conduct dissertation research in a wide variety of topical areas, but many of them select research aligned with the strengths of the faculty. These areas of strength include:
Assessment
College choice
Economics and finance of postsecondary education
Retention
Student development
Student engagement
Teaching and learning
Students should anticipate spending an average of 4-6 years in the Ph.D. program to complete the coursework requirements and dissertation.
This is an in-person degree program, meaning students are required to attend the majority of their courses in person. While some portions of the program may utilize online, hybrid, and other technological modes, the majority of the HESA experience will take place in Bloomington, and attending community events will be an integral part of your being a contributing member of the HESA community.
Starting Semester
Priority Deadline
Final Deadline
Fall
Dec 1
Jan 10
December 1 is the priority funding deadline for the Dean’s Fellowship and University Graduate School diversity fellowships. Eligible applicants will automatically be considered for fellowships – no separate application is necessary.
International students are encouraged to apply early to allow extra time for their materials to arrive.
The Graduate Studies Office will accept unofficial transcripts and self-reported test scores for admission reviews. Any admission made with these documents would be conditioned on receipt of official documents, which should be provided as soon as possible.
If you are currently enrolled or have applied in the past year, you are eligible for a reduced application fee of $35.
Learn more »
*Does not include all fees, which will vary depending on the number of credits enrolled. Find more information and calculate your expected costs at
Student Central.
Visit
Student Central for information about
financial assistance.
Consult your employer about the availability of
tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance
programs.
Active duty military, veterans, and military
families should visit the
Center for Veteran and Military Students
to take full advantage of available financial assistance and
educational benefits.
Your program of study is planned with the help of an Advisory Committee composed of two faculty members from the higher education major including your faculty advisor, and one faculty member representing the minor field. A meeting with the Advisory Committee is required to approve the program of study.
Find valuable information about our program, including video introductions from our faculty, a virtual tour of the IU campus, and ways to connect with faculty as a prospective student.
