ABOUT STONY BROOK'S HEA PROGRAM
Empowering the next generation of campus leaders.
At Stony Brook University, we are dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders in student affairs and the broader landscape of higher education administration. Ranked among the top 40 public universities nationwide — and #1 in New York — Stony Brook is known for innovation, research, and a strong commitment to student success and social mobility.
Founded in 2010, our Higher Education Administration (HEA) program is now the 6th largest of its kind in the U.S. We have a network of over 900 alumni working in student affairs, enrollment management, academic advising, institutional research, and more. Whether you aspire to lead student-centered initiatives or manage institutional operations, our program offers the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to help you excel.
What our alumni are saying
"I wanted to complete my HEA degree to be ready to take the next step in my career. This program has helped me move up to the mid-level and continue to take steps to achieve my professional goals."
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Brandon Emerick, '19
Assistant Director for Residence Life Operations
Florida Gulf Coast University
"The faculty exceeded my expections and kept the students engaged. I felt supported
and heard even though I never met most of my professors face to face."
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Danielle Collins Groner, '17
Director of Communications and Signature Events
SUNY Old Westbury
"HEA faculty, staff and alumni all share a bond that is hard to describe, but in a
nutshell we all share admiration and appreciation for the positive experiences that
we had."
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Lori Carron, '16
Director, Financial Management and Administrative Services
Enrollment Management
Stony Brook University
"Even though I hoped I would be able to move up in my organization after completing
the program, I was promoted to a new job, despite the fact I had three classes remaining
in my program.
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Amy Anderson, '24
Assistant Provost for Strategy
Samuel Merritt University
Why Choose Stony Brook’s Higher Education Administration Program?
At Stony Brook, we prepare you to lead with purpose, equipped to make meaningful change in the lives of students and the institutions that serve them. Whether you're already working in higher education or just starting your journey, you'll graduate ready to shape policies, programs, and communities that enhance the student experience.
Student Affairs & Beyond
While many graduates thrive in student affairs, our curriculum also prepares professionals for key roles in enrollment management, institutional research, academic policy, and campus operations.
Expert Faculty
Our scholar-practitioners bring real-world expertise into every course, helping you
apply theory to practice.
Meet our faculty »
Flexible Program Options
Choose the program that is optimized for your personal needs and professsional goals
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- Part-Time Master's (online, on-campus, or hybrid formats)
- Full-Time Master's (includes practicum opportunities)
- 18-Credit Advanced Graduate Certificate
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ACPA- and NASPA-aligned
Our courses are guided by professional competencies, ensuring your learning reflects the latest best practices in the field.
Career Support
Our Career Center offers personalized guidance, including resume help, interview prep, and job search support to help students find higher ed jobs in their chosen specialty.
Student Engagement
Join the Higher Education Administration Association (HEAA), a student-led organization recognized by Stony Brook’s Office of Student Activities and Graduate Student Organization. HEAA hosts social and career-focused programming, providing leadership opportunities and access to student club funding.
PROGRAM
LEADERSHIP
Brian A. Kerr, EdD
Interim Academic Program Director
(631) 632-9213
Brian.Kerr@stonybrook.edu
Maria Sicari, MS
Assistant Director
Enrollment and Engagement
(631) 632-7053
maria.sicari@stonybrook.edu
Have more questions?
We are happy to help! Connect with an admissions counselor.
