Learn more about the Floyd Scholars Program
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Our Department’s Mission
The Higher Education Leadership Program is part of the Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology. The department is a community of scholars focusing on the preparation and support of leaders and researchers in Florida, the nation, and the international community.
Our Program Emphasis
Our graduate students currently hold or aspire to hold senior leadership positions in a variety of sectors, including public, private, and for-profit institutions. Nearly 80% of our graduate students take classes at night, on weekends, and online to accommodate their professional schedules. Our undergraduate students represent interdisciplinary interests and share a commitment to deepening their understanding of leadership through practical applications.
Areas of emphasis include:
- university leadership,
- community college and state college leadership,
- student affairs leadership,
- instructional leadership,
- foundations of higher education, and
- higher education policy.
The program of study is organized around the following domains:
- leadership and management,
- higher education foundations, and
- research methodology.
Our Students
Students currently hold or aspire to hold senior leadership positions in a variety of sectors including public, private, and for-profit institutions. Nearly 80% of our students take classes at night, on weekends, and online to accommodate their professional schedules.
Graduate Positions in Higher Education
Graduate assistantship opportunities are available to graduate students interested in higher education administration and research. Full-time, degree-seeking enrollment status is required. Compensation includes stipend funding for the length of the appointment. Limited competitive fellowships are also available. Please contact the Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology for application information.
Specialized graduate student worker positions, within the area of student affairs, are available in the various departments of the Division of Student Affairs. These positions provide opportunities for graduate students to experience student affairs work on a university campus.
Higher Education Leadership Programs
Leadership Studies Minor
Masters in Higher Educational Leadership
Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) Program in Educational Leadership: Higher Education
Ph.D. Program in Educational Leadership: Higher Education
Graduate Program Resources
1. Course Planning & Registration
2. Degree Program Requirements
3. Ph.D. Dissertation, Writing & Resources
- Dissertation & Thesis Deadlines
- Writing Your Prospectus: A Guide
- Concept Paper Headings Worksheet
- Ph.D. Dissertation Submission Checklist 2025-2026
4. Ph.D. Policies, Procedures, Forms
- 2024 ELRM Ph.D. Degree Policies and Procedures: From Application to Completion Ph.D. Mar 20
- Application for Comprehensive Exam
- Stages of the Doctoral Study
- Higher Education Leadership Qualifying exam
- Graduate College Deadlines
- Defense Deadlines – EDLRM
5. Forms and Grades – graduate programs
6. Scholarships & Funding
- Floyd Scholars Program
- College of Education Scholarships
- Graduate College Scholarships and Fellowships
- Financial Aid
7. Brochures and Publications
Pathways to Higher Education Careers
From Undergraduate Study to Higher Education Leadership
Your Pathway to Leadership in Higher Education Starts Here.
The Pathways to Higher Education Careers initiative connects aspiring leaders to graduate education and professional advancement within colleges and universities.
We support emerging professionals in moving beyond entry-level roles and into strategic leadership positions across higher education.
What is Pathways to Higher Education Careers?
A Leadership Advancement Initiative
The Pathways to Higher Education Careers initiative focuses on building a pipeline from undergraduate study and university employment into graduate education and executive leadership roles in higher education by connecting participants with mentorship, leadership development, and career advancement opportunities.
Who should consider Pathways to Higher Education Careers?
Pathways to Higher Education Careers supports individuals interested in building meaningful, successful careers within higher education, including:
- Undergraduate students exploring leadership and higher education professions
- Leadership minor students considering graduate study
- Entry-level higher education professionals seeking advancement
- Emerging professionals aspiring to move into strategic and senior leadership roles
Request more information about the following programs:
Pathways to Higher Education Careers supports your journey through the higher education pipeline, connecting undergraduate study, graduate education, mentorship, and career advancement.
Career Pathways in Higher Education Leadership
Where Can a Degree in Higher Education Leadership Take You?
Higher Education Leadership is a progression of increasing responsibility, influence, and strategic impact. For example, graduates of our programs pursue roles such as:
With a Master’s (M.Ed.)
- Academic Advisor or Senior Academic Advisor
- Director of Student Success Initiatives
- Assistant or Associate Director
- Enrollment Management Leader
- Career Services Director
- Program Director (Retention, First-Year Experience, Leadership Programs)
- Alumni Engagement Leader
- Residence Life Director
With a Doctorate (Ph.D.)
- Dean or Associate Dean
- Assistant or Associate Vice President
- Vice President for Student Affairs
- Chief Operating Officer
- Executive Director
- Director of Institutional Research or Assessment
- Faculty in Higher Education Leadership Programs
- Senior Administrator in University Advancement
- Department Chair
- Professor
- Coordinator
- Manager
Through Pathways to Higher Education Careers, You Gain:
- Career pathway mapping
- Mentorship from university leaders
- Graduate program advising
- Leadership development workshops
- Networking with senior administrators
Graduates serve in leadership roles across public and private institutions, colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, and policy agencies.
Leadership in Action
Florida Atlantic leaders began their journey through graduate study in Higher Education Leadership.
Take the Next Step
Career & Graduate Education
Need Help Navigating Your Career Pathway?
Explore opportunities in higher education and take the next step toward your professional goals with personalized guidance and career resources from the Florida Atlantic Career Center.
Interested in a Master’s Degree in Higher Education?
Learn more about Florida Atlantic’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership, with a specialization in Higher Education, including program information, requirements, and admissions.
Considering a Ph.D. in Higher Education?
Explore Florida Atlantic’s Ph.D. in Educational Leadership: Higher Education and learn more about the program, admissions requirements, and opportunities for doctoral study.
Mentorship Opportunities
Current Ph.D. Student Interested in the Floyd Scholars Program?
Learn more about the Floyd Scholars Program, which supports doctoral students in higher education leadership through structured mentorship, professional development opportunities, and engagement in research, teaching, and leadership experiences.
Interested in the Presidential Mentoring and Career Internship Program?
Learn more about the Presidential Mentoring and Career Internship Program, a high-impact initiative that connects students with university leadership and professional mentors while providing hands-on internship experiences, leadership development, and career readiness opportunities.
Leadership in higher education is leadership with purpose.