M.A. in Higher Education and Student Development

Matthew Holgate, a Navajo from Flagstaff, Arizona, knew at a younger age that he was called to address the hardships in his native community. Through his undergaduate experience at Vanguard University, he found a new way of advocating for change – through holistic support of Native American college students. Matthew is a member of the first cohort of the West Coast Partnership through Wheaton's HESD Program.

For more information, please see this page.

• Articulate biblical, theological, ethical, cultural, historical, and philosophical foundations in student affairs in light of contemporary global realities;
• Identify characteristics of emerging adults and how such attributes influence educational, developmental, and spiritual formation, as well as the effects of the college experience on student learning;
• Comprehend organizational, management, and leadership theory and practice; student affairs functions; legal issues in higher education; and professional issues, gain the ability to synthesize knowledge across these content areas to apply to professional experiences with students.

• Learn that a life of discipleship, spiritual growth, and balanced self-care is the foundation of effective ministry and leadership;
• Identify your gifts, calling and passions, and appropriately offer them in service to Christ and the world;
• Engage in authentic Christian community, valuing the diversity of cultures, ethnicities, traditions, and individuals;
• Effectively contribute to your community as a member of the Body of Christ.

• On campus students can apply for Graduate Assistantships in the field of student development while Flexible Learning Students can remain in your current leadership field and learn from there.
• Engage in conflict mediation and resolution practices and demonstrated, effective, intervention strategies; 
• Teach and lead effectively, appropriately integrating truth, facilitated reflection, and experiences with integrity, humility, and grace, to build healthy communities and foster holistic development of individuals;
• Serve collaboratively and compassionately as part of a team, balancing the needs of others with adequate self-care;
• Gain experiences in the necessary skills of student personnel professionals including: program planning, implementation, or evaluation; staff training, advising, or supervision; and administrative functions or processes.

• Learn from committed faculty who set the industry standards for student development in both secular and Christian contexts;
• Work alongside and receive mentorship from student development and higher education professionals while earning your degree.

• Join the full-time, on-campus community, or
• Join a Flexible Learning Cohort, and enjoy the journey of developing in your field with others who are still in their home, ministry, or work contexts.

Find detailed information such as course requirements, course descriptions, faculty information, and program overview for the M.A. in Higher Education and Student Development.