Are all Internship packages the same?
No. Much like admittance into the program, securing an internship that meets a student's area of interest is a competitive process. Internship packages range from combinations that may include: tuition remission, room, and board, meal-plan, and stipend, to strictly a stipend. Students who do not get housing or tuition remission may be eligible for Steinhardt's scholarship and grants awards.
Are alumni involved in the program?
One of the greatest strengths of our program is our alumni base. Our students have established an alumni mentoring program that aims to connect our current students with recent alumni and those from past generations.
Can I finish the program in less than two years?
Yes, with summer or intersession courses and study away opportunities, it is possible to finish the program in less than two years time frame. Students are encouraged to consult with their faculty advisers about this endeavor or any other goal one might aim to pursue during their tenure in the program.
Can the application fee be waived?
Please see the Graduate Application Guide for more information on fee waivers.
Do full-time and part-time students take courses together?
Yes, there is no distinction between the courses full-time or part-time students take with the exception of internship seminar and professional seminar (practicum).
Do I need to submit my GRE Scores?
We do not require GRE scores for the MA applications.
Does NYU offer any overnight visits for prospective students?
The program does not offer overnight visits outside of the scheduled interview days in March. Should you be visiting the area and would like a tour of NYU, you can schedule a tour with the Welcome Center. The tour that you can schedule at with The Welcome Center is not specifically for graduate students, but this will give you a great overview of what NYU has to offer as well as provide you with an opportunity to explore the Washington Square campus.
How long does the MA program take to complete?
Typically, the 36 credits required to complete the program will take two years or four semesters full-time (9 credits per semester), and three years or so, part-time. With a combination of summer and winter courses, when available, part-time may also be completed in two years.
If I am not interested in working directly with students is this program still applicable to me?
Yes, the program’s curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of institutions of higher education. Cohorts are generally comprised of students that have an expressed interest in specifically higher education administration, student affairs, or a combination of both. It is not unlikely for matriculated students to change their interest or the course of their trajectory after a semester or two in the program.
Is an internship required for admission into the program?
Yes, a 20-hour, paid internship is required for full-time admission into the program. Part-time applicants are required to hold a full-time position in some capacity related to the field of higher education or student affairs.
Is the full-time program structured in a cohort model?
No. All students in the program are required to take a core curriculum consisting of 21 credits and the remaining 15 credits are electives. Most Courses need not be taken in a particular order with the exception of Internship seminar or Practicum (1st semester possible), Foundations in Higher Education (1st semester possible), and College Student Learning and Student Development (1st spring semester of cycle).
Is there a thesis or capstone project required for graduation?
We have a capstone project that is required for graduation. Capstone enables you to develop a portfolio that builds upon the cumulation of your experiences academically, professionally, and socially during your tenure in the program. The program does not require a thesis, though students have the ability to conduct in-depth independent studies with our faculty.
What financial aid/scholarships are available for M.A. students?
See Steinhardt’s Financial Aid information page.
What is the typical class size?
Average class size is 20 with classes no larger than 24.
Will coming directly out of undergraduate studies affect my chances for admission into the program?
Faculty review each application utilizing a holistic approach. It is important to demonstrate leadership and involvement relevant to the field of higher education or student affairs at the time of applying. Grade point average, involvement, service, professional experience, knowledge of the field, and quality of recommendations are among the factors that are taken into consideration.