Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, Ph.D.

HALE students encompass a wide range of backgrounds, expertise, and research interests. Some students choose to attend the program full-time, while others enroll part-time and continue their professional employment. 

All students are welcome in HALE, as we believe this diversity adds to the strength of our community. As the field of higher education is broad and far-reaching, future graduates must be prepared to address a multitude of issues. We believe the best preparation for the future is learning from one another today.

Important Dates

See below for annual events related to the HALE Ph.D. program. For specifics, contact a member of the HALE team. 

• October/November: Program Information Days (Prospective Students)
  • Learn about HALE programs and their requirements! Topics covered include: exploring careers in student affairs and higher education administration, interacting with HALE faculty and students, and understanding the application process. To learn more about the event, please contact HALEADM@MSU.EDU, specifying the program you are interested in. We will add you to the email list once the event is scheduled.
• December 1: Application Deadline for Optimal Consideration
• March: Graduate Research Colloquium
  • As a community of scholars, HALE graduate students gather for our annual Graduate Research Colloquium (GRC) to share and present their research projects and highlights from their academic and professional development. The GRC provides an opportunity for students to support and educate one another. Newly admitted and prospective HALE students attend this event along with current students and faculty.
• April 15: Deadline for Attendance Decisions
• August 16: Graduate Assistantships Begin
• Mid-August: New Student Orientation (Master's/Doctoral)Held on a Saturday in mid-August, this event consists of a welcome and introduction to the department and programs. Students have the opportunity to interact with current students and faculty members.

The Center for Higher and Adult Education

In association with the HALE program, the Center for Higher and Adult Education (CHAE) serves as a research hub for innovation and the advancement of higher education. Students and faculty are invited to fully participate in the center’s efforts further policy and international work in postsecondary education. The center also provides funding and support to students for various professional endeavors, including internships, externships, conference attendance, and publication.