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With world-renowned faculty members involved in the field’s most critical research, our Higher Education (HE) Concentration is uniquely positioned to prepare you for a career in postsecondary education — ranging from administrative and direct service positions at colleges and universities to research and policy analyst positions at government agencies and nonprofit organizations. You may also pursue a career in community-based organizations that assist students in the transition from high school to college, foundations that support programs and activities in colleges and universities, and education-related businesses and consulting groups.
“Throughout their careers, educators in the field of higher education will be expected to address a complex array of issues, ranging from access to affordability to equitable student success. At HGSE, we’re committed to ensuring these next-generation leaders have the skills, knowledge, and capacity to make a transformative impact on the college and university landscape.” Francesca PurcellHigher Ed Faculty
“Throughout their careers, educators in the field of higher education will be expected to address a complex array of issues, ranging from access to affordability to equitable student success. At HGSE, we’re committed to ensuring these next-generation leaders have the skills, knowledge, and capacity to make a transformative impact on the college and university landscape.”
Francesca PurcellHigher Ed Faculty
Students will work closely with faculty associated with their area of study, but students can also work with and take courses with faculty throughout HGSE and Harvard. The faculty co-chairs for Higher Education are below. View our faculty directory for a full list of HGSE faculty.
Liya Escalera focuses on the design and assessment of asset-based learning environments that value the strengths and ways of knowing of diverse students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Alexis Redding is a developmental psychologist who focuses on how to support young adults during the college years and the transition to the workforce.
The President-in-Residence program helps to anchor academic discussions with real-world experience by bringing a distinguished former college or university president to the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The President-in-Residence will attend classes alongside students, meet with students in one-on-one office hours, and advise students on important academic and career decisions. Christina Royal, president of Holyoke Community College, and David Wippman, president of Hamilton College, have been appointed President-in-Residence for the 2024–25 academic year.
The HE Concentration will prepare you for a career in higher education, including college or university positions in such areas as:
As an HE Concentration participant, you will join a dynamic and motivated group of students with interests ranging from improving access and equity to enhancing the college student experience to making higher education more affordable. Outside of class, you and your cohort members will attend speaker series, lectures, and small study groups to engage with scholars, practitioners, and one another in a supportive and vibrant environment. In the fall, the Presidents-in-Residence program allows students access to a distinguished former college or university president who will attend the HE core course to offer on-the-ground perspective and will meet regularly with you and your fellow students to offer career guidance and support. You also will have many opportunities to connect with HGSE alumni to explore and develop your professional aspirations and network.
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