Prepare to Lead in Higher Education

 

The SAHE program combines rigorous academic preparation, meaningful practicum experiences, and mentorship from experienced student affairs professionals, preparing graduates to lead and advocate for students across a variety of higher education settings.

The SAHE program welcomes applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds and professional experiences who are passionate about higher education and student development.

Ideal candidates demonstrate interest, experience, and/or leadership in student affairs areas such as student activities and engagement, residence life or multicultural and international affairs. 

Our students come from diverse undergraduate majors and professional backgrounds. Some enter the program directly after completing their bachelor's degree, while others bring experience working full-time in student affairs or related fields.

Applications are reviewed holistically, with careful consideration given to all aspects of an applicant's background. Particular attention is given to academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and professional and leadership experiences

In some cases, faculty may request an informational department visit before making a final admission decision. Visits can be arranged through the Graduate Assistant for SAHE Recruitment.

To ensure a smooth application process:

1. Complete your online application through the Graduate School before sending supporting materials such as transcripts. Apply under: Educational Policy and Leadership (EDPL) Master of Education (M.Ed.) Specialization in Student Affairs in Higher Education (EDPL-M.Ed.-SAHE)
2. Plan to have all application components submitted at least one month before the application deadline.
3. Inform your recommenders that they must both complete the online assessment and upload their recommendation letter before the deadline.
4. Verify that all application materials have been received and your application file is complete by the deadline.

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SAHE Faculty

SAHE faculty bring extensive experience in student affairs practice, scholarship, and leadership. Their strong professional networks across the Milwaukee area create valuable opportunities for student mentorship, practicum placements, and career development.

Students learn from both full-time faculty and experienced higher education practitioners, gaining perspectives from a variety of functional areas within student affairs.

Departmental Faculty

	Jody Jessup-Anger, Ph.D. Professor Courses Taught: EDPL 6200: Student Development in Higher Education EDPL 6210: Environmental Theory & Assessment EDPL 6997: Capstone in Educational Policy and Leadership
	derria byrd, Ph.D. Assistant Professor  Course Taught: EDPL 6140: Social Justice Advocacy in Student Affairs
	Benjamin Correia-Harker, Ph.D. Clinical Assistant Professor and SAHE Program Coordinator Courses Taught: EDPL 6000: Introduction to Educational Inquiry EDPL 6100: Introduction to Student Affairs EDPL 6210: Environmental Theory & Assessment EDPL 6260: Organizational Theory EDPL 6965: Practicum in Student Affairs Leadership

Affiliated Faculty

	Deborah Contreras-Tadych, Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist, Diversity Coordinator, Counseling Center Course Taught: EDPL 6130: Counseling Skills for Student Affairs Professionals
	Eric Jessup-Anger, Ph.D. Course Taught: EDPL 6997: Capstone in Educational Policy and Leadership
	Erik Albinson, Ph.D. Director, Academic Resource Center Course Taught: EDPL 6160: Student Success in Higher Education
	Erin Gannon Dean of Students Courses Taught: EDPL 6965: Practicum in Student Affairs Leadership I EDPL 6966: Practicum in Student Affairs Leadership II
	Kristen Kreple, J.D. Title IX Coordinator and Director of Student Civil Rights Compliance Course Taught: EDPL 6800: American Law and the Educational Organization

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The SAHE program aligns with recognized graduate preparation standards established by:

• Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS)
• College Student Educators International (ACPA)

Our curriculum combines academic coursework with practical field experiences that prepare students for leadership roles in higher education and student affairs. 

• Explore course descriptions

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Practicum Experiences

Practicum experiences allow students to apply concepts and theories learned in the classroom to real-world student affairs settings.

While completing their practicum placement, students also participate in a faculty-led seminar where they:

• Reflect on professional experiences
• Connect theory to practice
• Engage with current scholarship
• Develop professional competencies

Practicum Opportunities

Students have completed practica at institutions throughout the Milwaukee area, including:

Marquette University University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee University of Wisconsin-Parkside

University of Wisconsin-Waukesha Alverno College Milwaukee School of Engineering

Carroll University Medical College of Wisconsin Milwaukee Area Technical College Mount Mary University

Common Practicum Areas

Students have gained experience in areas such as:

Academic Advising Admissions and Recruitment Alumni Relations and Development Athletics Student Activities, Involvement and Engagement

Campus Ministry Career Services Financial Aid Fraternity and Sorority Life International Education

Multicultural and Diversity Affairs Orientation and First-Year Programs Residence Life Student Support Services Women's Resource Centers