UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHICAGO · UNITED STATES
MEd in Urban Higher Education
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 36Minimum Semester Hours Required
- 24Estimated Program Duration (Months)
- Coursework OnlyDegree Option
- Project & PresentationCulminating Experience
The Master of Education (MEd) in Urban Higher Education program at the University of Illinois Chicago is designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in higher education institutions, particularly within urban contexts. This program focuses on understanding the complexities of urban universities, including their relationships with their surrounding cities, issues of diversity and equity, and student development within these environments. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for leadership and administrative roles in various higher education settings. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes required courses covering foundational theories and contemporary challenges in urban higher education, alongside recommended electives that allow for specialization. Students will engage in in-depth study of topics such as student diversity, equity, access, college student development, and the socio-political landscape of urban universities. The program culminates in a capstone seminar where students develop and present a project that synthesizes their learning and aligns with their professional aspirations.
Curriculum
The program requires a minimum of 36 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate. At least 18 hours must be earned as a degree candidate at UIC. The program is coursework-only and culminates in a project and presentation.
- Core Courses (24 hours)
- Introduction to Urban Higher EducationEDPS 515
- Students, Diversity, Equity, and Access in Urban Higher EducationEDPS 518
- The City as Campus: City and University RelationsEDPS 520
- College Student Development TheoryEDPS 516
- Capstone SeminarEDPS 530
- Institutional Research, Data, and Evaluation in Urban Higher EducationEPSY 516
- Recommended Elective Courses (12 hours)
- Current Controversies in Urban Higher EducationEDPS 415
- Political and Socio-Cultural Perspectives on Special EducationSPED 461
- Student Transitions to CollegeEDPS 519
- Internship in Urban Higher EdEDPS 529
Careers
Graduates of the MEd in Urban Higher Education program are prepared for a variety of leadership and administrative roles within university and college settings. The program's focus on urban contexts and student success equips alumni to address the unique challenges and opportunities present in these environments.
- Higher Education Administration
- Student Affairs Professional
- Admissions and Recruitment Officer
- Academic Advising
- Program Management
- Institutional Research
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MEd in Urban Higher Education program?
- You need a Baccalaureate Degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.00 in the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study, and a 3.00/4.00 on any combined postbaccalaureate or graduate coursework. If English is not your native language, you must meet English proficiency requirements, such as a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or an IELTS Academic score of 6.5.
- How long does the MEd in Urban Higher Education program take to complete?
- The program requires a minimum of 36 semester hours and is designed to be completed in approximately 24 months.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs Professional, Admissions and Recruitment Officer, Academic Advising, Program Management, Institutional Research, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer within university and college settings.
- How do I apply to the MEd in Urban Higher Education program?
- You must apply through the University of Illinois Chicago Graduate College, submitting official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and English proficiency test scores if required. Applications are reviewed on an individual basis.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
- Specific tuition and fee information for graduate programs, including for international students, is available on the Registrar's website and the UIC Admissions website.
Entry requirements
Baccalaureate DegreeNo specific field restrictions.
GPAMinimum 2.75/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study, AND a 3.00/4.00 on all postbaccalaureate or graduate coursework combined.
TOEFL iBT (exams taken on or after January 21, 2026)80 (Overall), with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 21
TOEFL iBT (exams taken prior to January 21, 2026)80 (Overall), with subscores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 21
IELTS Academic6.5 (Overall), with subscores of 6.0 for Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing
PTE Academic54 (Overall), with subscores of 51 for Reading, 47 for Listening, 53 for Speaking, and 56 for Writing
Admission is restricted to Fall and Spring terms. Two letters of recommendation and a personal statement addressing program and professional goals are required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Specific tuition and fee information for graduate programs is available on the Registrar's website. International students should consult the UIC Admissions website for detailed requirements and potential additional fees.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the program-specific requirements, including GPA and English proficiency. Review the Graduate College minimum requirements as well.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing your program and professional goals.
3. Submit TranscriptsOfficial transcripts for all undergraduate and any graduate work must be submitted to the Graduate College.
4. Take English Proficiency TestIf required, submit scores from an approved English proficiency test (e.g., TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, PTE Academic) meeting the program's minimum score requirements.
5. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the online application form through the UIC Graduate College application portal.
6. Pay Application FeeA non-refundable application fee is typically required.
7. Submit Application by DeadlineEnsure your application and all supporting documents are submitted by the program's stated application deadlines for Fall or Spring admission.
Accreditation
University of Illinois Chicago is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MEd in Urban Higher Education program?
+
You need a Baccalaureate Degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.00 in the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study, and a 3.00/4.00 on any combined postbaccalaureate or graduate coursework. If English is not your native language, you must meet English proficiency requirements, such as a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or an IELTS Academic score of 6.5.
How long does the MEd in Urban Higher Education program take to complete?
+
The program requires a minimum of 36 semester hours and is designed to be completed in approximately 24 months.
What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs Professional, Admissions and Recruitment Officer, Academic Advising, Program Management, Institutional Research, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer within university and college settings.
How do I apply to the MEd in Urban Higher Education program?
+
You must apply through the University of Illinois Chicago Graduate College, submitting official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and English proficiency test scores if required. Applications are reviewed on an individual basis.
What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
+
Specific tuition and fee information for graduate programs, including for international students, is available on the Registrar's website and the UIC Admissions website.