Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, M.A.

The Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education (HALE) master’s program at Michigan State University is a 30-credit hour online program that promotes professional development among those working in higher, adult, and lifelong education in a variety of local, national, and international settings. This includes colleges and universities, public and nonprofit agencies, as well as private industry.

Our two application cycles mean you can apply at your convenience. Apply now!

Academic Areas

You will gain knowledge and skills in areas such as higher education policy, curricular development, and budget and finance. Focused on higher, adult, and lifelong education, you will also learn how to serve and understand learners and learning in contexts beyond the higher education sector.

The program focuses on developing a deep appreciation for learning across the lifespan in different contexts, and you will engage in your own lifelong learning as well as reflection on your personal and professional development.

Key elements of the program include two core courses, eight electives, and a Final Essay connecting theory to practice.

All Online

The HALE M.A. is a 100% online, self-paced program that has been developed with working professionals in mind. The program features courses that impart theoretical concepts and practical skills, directly applicable to your current and future work settings.

This program is not an in-person, cohort-based program.

Prospective students interested in a full-time, cohort-based graduate program preparing them for work in the field of student affairs in higher education should consider the Student Affairs Administration M.A. program also offered through HALE.

Committed to You

We are committed to your success as a student. We believe working professionals require a flexible education that develops knowledge, skills, and interests specific to them. Thus, the HALE M.A. program is an individualized online experience. The fully online program is designed to fit into your schedule, regardless of your location.

With support from your advisor, you will choose electives to deepen your knowledge in various topics that build upon your professional interests and goals.

Leading Scholars

HALE M.A. at MSU faculty have been named pillars of the profession, lead associations in the field and participate in long-standing international partnerships. Learn about a few of them below!

 

The HALE M.A. program has helped in considerable ways. The work of [Paulo] Freire, [bell] hooks, and countless others challenged my basic assumptions about my role within this arena, and [have] led to personal insight about my ability to contribute toward a more just and equitable society. The most impactful moments that I experienced throughout this program were those where I married basic theory influencing higher education with my own practical experiences. 

Steven Bennett, HALE MA Alum