• School of Education
  • Our Programs
  • Master's Programs
  • Higher Education & Student Affairs, MA
  • The Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) combines a rigorous academic curriculum with practicum experiences in various areas of student life. Every HESA course is infused with an examination of equity and a passion for social justice. Class conversations and coursework focus on improving access to higher education for first generation and low-income students.

    Accepting for Fall 2025

    The social justice education component is something that I value most about the HESA program. Joining a program that would afford me the opportunity to merge theory and practice was essential to my decision to attend USF."

    Amiya Powell-Hodge Higher Education & Student Affairs MA Alumna

    Program Highlights

    • Hands-on Learning – Each HESA student has the opportunity to do an internship and practicum placement at USF or other Bay Area institutions.
    • Develop a Strong Foundation – Our professional orientation integrates theoretical frameworks, student affairs practice, and lived experience.
    • Contextualize – Critically analyze experiences and challenges facing marginalized students across higher education contexts.
    • Become an Advocate  Transform spaces within higher education to enact more equitable outcomes for all students. 
    • Prepare to Succeed – HESA graduates have a high job placement in relevant student affairs positions.
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    Video Transcript

    School of Education

    2130 Fulton St.
    San Francisco, CA 94117
    Hours

    Monday–Friday
    8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.