Course Overview!

The Boston College Dual Degree Program (M.A./M.B.A.) in Higher Education and Business Administration is a three-year program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in higher education. The curriculum integrates coursework from both the Lynch School of Education and Human Development and the Carroll Graduate School of Management. Students gain expertise in financial management, resource planning, technology management, and higher education policy. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through field experiences, equipping graduates for impactful roles in universities, policy organizations, and advocacy groups. Students will explore topics like higher education law and policy, assessment in student affairs, financial management in higher education, and leadership and administration in higher education. The dual degree structure allows students to develop a comprehensive skill set at the intersection of higher education and business, creating highly versatile professionals.

Course Structure

The program comprises two distinct degrees: a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Higher Education and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.). The M.A. requires 30 credits, including core courses, research, diversity, administration concentration, electives, and field experiences. The M.B.A. requires 37 credits plus electives, integrating business principles with the knowledge gained in the M.A. students will learn about higher education in American society, education law and policy, various assessment techniques, statistical analysis, and current issues like diversity, internationalization, and public policy in higher education. Students will complete two field experiences. One field experience is focused on Higher Education and second in Business. Students can choose electives across various schools in Boston College to supplement their studies, working closely with advisors to personalize the coursework alignment towards their career goals. After successful completion of all requirements, students will be awarded both the M.A. and the M.B.A degrees.