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Indiana University Online

Higher Education and Student Affairs, Graduate Certificate

If you currently work in student affairs but don’t hold a degree in the field, the IU Online Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs will deepen your understanding and help you advance in your career. This flexible and fully online certificate is designed to fit around your personal and professional schedules.

Program quick facts

Course Delivery

100% Online

Total Credits

12

Campuses Hosting

  • Bloomington

Degree Type

Graduate Certificate

Certificate Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs covers topics in college and university administration, student development theory, student affairs practice, and current issues. The certificate can be combined with the online Master of Science in Adult Education.

You’ll graduate with an Indiana University certificate respected by employers worldwide—and you can work on yours anytime and anywhere. Plus, you’ll enjoy personalized support services throughout your academic journey.

To be accepted to this program, you must have:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.7 GPA or above on a 4.0 scale

To apply to this program, complete an online application that includes:

  • Transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Letter of recommendation from supervisor
  • Resume 
  • TOEFL score (minimum 79) or IELTS score (minimum 6.5) - international students only


Your IU Online Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs prepares you for careers in areas such as:

  • Admissions and enrollment 
  • Financial aid  
  • College career advising 
  • Student activities and programming
  • College union
  • Academic advising
  • Residential programs and services
  • First-year experience and orientation

To earn the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs, you must complete 12 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

  • Higher education and student affairs core courses (9 credit hours) 
  • Higher education and student affairs elective course (3 credit hours)

Core Classes for the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education and Student Affairs
Course Number Course Name Credits
EDUC-C 656 Introduction to College and University Administration 3 Credits
EDUC-U 544 Introduction to Student Affairs Work in Higher Education 3 Credits
EDUC-U 556 Applying Student Development Theory to Practice 3 Credits
EDUC-D 505 Adult Learning through the Lifespan 3 Credits
EDUC-D 506 Adult Education Planning and Development 3 Credits
EDUC-U 550 Topical Seminar in College Student Personnel 3 Credits
EDUC-U 590 Independent Study or Research in College Student Personnel 3 Credits

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool.

Program cost information

Plan your finances

Program cost can vary by campus, resident status, and type of program. Use the resources below to get accurate cost estimates for your specific situation.

View cost by campus Estimate your expenses

Contact Student Financial Services at iuosfs@iu.edu for cost information.

Note: This program is not eligible for financial aid.

Find the answers you need or start your application. We’re here to help!