SUNY Buffalo State

The Higher Education Administration Department at Buffalo State College is committed to preparing socially just, reflective, authentic and collaborative professionals.  We prepare exceptional scholars and practitioners with the requisite knowledge, skills, competencies and an ethic of care needed for sound professional practice in the twenty-first century.

We offer three unique programs of interest.

M.S. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration (HESAA)

The HESAA curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of student affairs and higher education and prepares individuals to work within this dynamic environment.  Colleges and universities are diverse settings, constantly evolving based on the needs of students and societal forces.  Graduates of the HESAA program are prepared to work with diverse populations and adapt to the changing landscape of higher education. The curriculum provides a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing reflective and ethical practitioners who respond with intentionality.

The program requires two supervised practice experiences which can be fufilled through internships, graduate assistantships or full-time professional experience in higher education, enhancing flexibility of completion.  Students in the HESAA program develop an electronic portfolio as a means of reflecting upon and documenting their personal and professional growth throughout the program and will present an oral defense of their portfolio to HEA faculty as the capstone experience.  HESAA students have the option of conducting independent studies and comprehensive research projects as part of their elective offerings.

Assessment in Student Affairs Advanced Certificate Program (Online)

The Assessment in Student Affairs Advanced Certificate is designed to provide professionals with the necessary skills to become assessment leaders in their higher education community and beyond. The Advanced Certificate is grounded in the principles and foundations of data-based decision making, collaborative practice, and reflective learning. It is designed to equip practitioners with the skills to gather information, the ability to understand the nature and value of formal inquiry, and the opportunity to serve as change agents within their institution through assessment. 

The 15-credit certificate program is designed as a fully online program, making it accessible for full-time working professionals.   Students applying for admission must hold a Master’s degree or have completed 18 credits of graduate coursework.  Students may begin the program in the spring or fall term.

Micro-Credential in Data Management & Storytelling (Online)

The Data Management & Storytelling micro-credential enhances skills and competencies in data-driven storytelling through the use of interactive visual delivery models. Many professionals understand the importance of data in decision making, but few are equipped to detect stories within the data and how to present data effectively.  This micro-credential will equip professionals in multiple industries with foundational knowledge and technical skills to manage and analyze data, identify patterns within datasets, and how to effectively communicate those stories through more interactive visual models.  The program is fully online.