Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership
Main Campus, Canada
Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership
Royal Roads University
Higher Education Administration & Leadership
Program Overview: MA in Higher Education Administration and Leadership
The Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership (MAHEAL) at Royal Roads University is a two-year, 33-credit program designed for current and aspiring administrators and leaders in post-secondary educational environments. Delivered through a blended model combining online learning with mandatory on-campus residencies at the historic Hatley Park campus in Victoria, British Columbia, this program enables you to continue working full-time while advancing your education.
The MAHEAL program equips you with the knowledge and skills to provide effective leadership within complex and changing higher educational environments. You will examine the relationship between theory and practice, acquire leadership mindsets essential for post-secondary work, and learn to critically assess research advances in the higher education leadership field.
You can customize your learning by choosing from two specialization options: Business Development in International Education or Systems Leadership in Higher Education. The program also offers two completion pathways — a research paper stream or a thesis stream — allowing you to tailor your academic journey to your professional goals and research interests.
Key Program Highlights
- Blended delivery model combining online courses with an intensive two-week on-campus residency and a capstone mini-residency
- Two specialization tracks: Business Development in International Education or Systems Leadership in Higher Education
- Designed in collaboration with current leaders in the higher education sector for immediate workplace applicability
- Flexible completion options including a research paper stream or a full master's thesis stream
Curriculum & Course Modules
The MAHEAL curriculum is structured around core courses in leadership, research methodology, and higher education policy, complemented by specialization electives. The program begins with an intensive on-campus residency where you complete foundational courses, followed by online coursework and a capstone research component.
HEAL 501: Leading and Learning in Higher Education
3 CreditsExplores leadership theories and practices specific to higher education environments. Completed during the on-campus residency, this course builds foundational skills in collaborative leadership and self-assessment.
HEAL 510: Approaches to Educational Research in Higher Education
3 CreditsIntroduces research methodologies relevant to higher education administration. Students develop skills in evidence-based decision-making and learn to evaluate scholarly research in the field.
HEAL 560: Higher Education Policy and Governance
3 CreditsExamines the policy frameworks, governance structures, and regulatory environments that shape post-secondary institutions. Students analyze how policy decisions affect institutional operations and student outcomes.
HEAL 570: Strategic Planning in Higher Education
3 CreditsFocuses on strategic thinking and planning processes within colleges and universities. Students learn to develop actionable plans that address institutional challenges and opportunities.
LRNT 506: Research Methods and Design
3 CreditsProvides advanced training in qualitative and quantitative research design. Students apply research concepts to develop proposals addressing real-world issues in higher education administration.
HEAL 610: Capstone Research Project
6 CreditsThe culminating course where students conduct secondary research and write a final paper on a topic of their choice. Students present their research findings in a poster presentation during a capstone mini-residency.
Specialization Electives
Admission Requirements
The MAHEAL program is designed for working professionals in higher education. Applicants are evaluated holistically based on academic credentials, professional experience, and leadership potential. Reach out to Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on preparing your application.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationFour-year (or comparable) undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution
- Work ExperienceMinimum of 3 years of relevant, paid work experience within recognized higher education institutions
- Leadership ExperienceSome demonstrated leadership experience within the higher education sector is required
- Flexible AdmissionApplicants without a degree may qualify with a minimum of 7 years of work experience in higher education, including 3 years in leadership roles
- GPA RequirementCompetitive academic standing; contact Uni4Edu for specific GPA expectations
English Language Requirements
- IELTS Academic6.5 overall with minimum 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in listening and reading
- TOEFL iBT88 overall with minimum 24 in writing, and 20 in listening, reading, and speaking
- PTE Academic60 overall with minimum 60 in writing and speaking, and 58 in listening and reading
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Royal Roads University and external organizations offer various funding opportunities for graduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships that match your profile and financial needs.
Royal Roads University Graduate Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships available to graduate students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership potential in their field of study.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MAHEAL program are prepared to take on senior administrative and leadership roles across the post-secondary education sector. Royal Roads University graduates report strong career outcomes, with many securing new positions, earning higher salaries, or receiving promotions after completing their studies.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Royal Roads University is a publicly funded applied research university recognized for its innovative blended learning model and focus on professional programs. While not typically featured in major global rankings due to its specialized focus, RRU is highly regarded in Canada for student engagement and collaborative learning excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #63 in Canada |
| Active & Collaborative Learning | NSSE | #1 Public University in Canada |
| Level of Academic Challenge | NSSE | #1 Public University in Canada |
| Social Innovation in Higher Education | Ashoka U | Top 5 Canadian Universities |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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