Masters
Part-Time Only
Fall
Online
Masters
Part-Time Only
Fall
Online
About the International Higher Education Master's Program at Loyola
The MEd in International Higher Education (IHE) program prepares scholar-practitioners to make a meaningful impact in a globalized educational landscape and offers a rigorous curriculum rooted in social justice and critical thinking.
Through an interdisciplinary curriculum and experiential learning opportunities, students will emerge as ethical and innovative leaders ready to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion at higher education institutions worldwide.
Program Highlights
- Cohort program geared towards students and working professionals across the world who are seeking to expand knowledge and skillsets in global education
- An accessible, asynchronous (self-paced) online format with one in-person study abroad course in Rome, Italy at Loyola's John Felice Rome Center
- Students will have the opportunity to connect with others, develop their skills, and acquire experience in international education through internships and research projects
The IHE master's program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in international higher education's complex and evolving field and is committed to fostering global citizenship and promoting social justice around the world. The program explores areas that include multiculturalism, globalization, critical issues in international higher education, research within the field, and international policies.
Program Overview
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum: An interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates insights from comparative and international higher education
- Global Perspective: Focus on global awareness and interconnectedness as students explore topics such as cross-border education, internationalization strategies, and the experiences of international students
- Social Justice Focus: Examine inclusion, access, and equity issues within higher education systems through critical social justice frameworks
- Experiential Learning: Emphasis on learning through internships, fieldwork, and community partnerships
- Portfolio Development: Culminates in an electronic portfolio to showcase your skills to future employers
Program Structure
The International Higher Education MEd is a part-time program designed to be completed in two years, including summers. Courses are completed in an asynchronous (self-paced), online format, with the exception of a study abroad course that takes place in-person at Loyola's John Felice Rome Center in Rome, Italy.
Direct Admission
This program offers a Direct Admission option for current Loyola undergraduates. Please visit our Direct Admission Programs webpage for more details.
Why Choose Loyola for Your International Higher Education Degree?
The IHE master's program at Loyola is distinctive among higher education degree programs and offers the following:
- A flexible, accessible format
- A supportive cohort
- Tuition discount and other benefits
- Study abroad course in Rome
- Focused on social justice
Manage your graduate studies alongside work, family, and other commitments through an MEd program that can be completed almost entirely online in just two years. The asynchronous, online format offers you the flexibility to learn at your own pace and from anywhere in the world.
Make connections and build community with other students in your cohort who share your passion for international higher education. You will be able to enjoy a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and growth throughout your studies.
The program includes a 20-percent tuition discount across the entirety of the program. Students will also receive an exemption from various university fees, including the Student Activity Fee and the CTA U-Pass, and exemption from proof-of-immunization and proof-of-health-insurance requirements that apply to Chicago-based students.
You will take part in a study abroad experience in Rome, Italy at Loyola's John Felice Rome Center where you will embark on a captivating journey through the world of international higher education, guided by Rome, Italy's rich history and contemporary developments. This study-abroad class is designed to go beyond academic coursework as it encompasses cultural immersion, personal growth, and a global perspective.
Graduates of Loyola's higher education program are committed to advancing social justice through education. You'll become a scholar-practitioner who is an agent of change on campus and in your professional field.
Meet the Faculty
Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the School of Education faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the International Higher Education MEd program.
FacultyInternational Higher Education: Career Connections
This higher education degree prepares you to work in a variety of roles focused on international higher education, including the following.
Career Opportunities:
- Study Abroad and Exchange Programs
- International Student Services
- Student Affairs and Campus Diversity
- International Admissions and Enrollment Management
- Non-Profit and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Diversity and Inclusion Leadership
- Higher Education Consulting
- Higher Education Policy Analysis
- International Development and Aid Organizations
- Research and Advocacy in Social Justice Organizations
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center, as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.
Curriculum and Program Outcomes
While courses for the International Higher Education MEd program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.
Additionally, this resource will provide International Higher Education MEd learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.
2024-2025 Catalog
Browse Academic CatalogMEd in International Higher Education Results and Skills
After completing your higher education degree at Loyola University Chicago, you will be equipped with the following knowledge and skills:
- Advocacy and Activism
- Assessment
- Communication
- Cross-cultural competence
- Ethical Decision making
- Intercultural communication
- Leadership
- Policy analysis
- Program evaluation
- Research and Analysis
Costs, Scholarships, and Aid
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
Tuition and Costs
| Program | Credit Hours | Cost Per Credit Hour | Estimated Tuition and Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Higher Education MEd | 36 | $1,070.00 | $38520.00 |
| Direct Admission: International Higher Education MEd | 36 | $1,070.00 | $38520.00 |
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
School of Education Financial Aid & Scholarships
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost and Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education. You may also visit the School of Education Scholarships page for detailed information about eligible scholarships.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
More information about financial aid opportunities can be found on the Financial Aid Office website.
Appointments and Events
Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.
Schedule an AppointmentThe School of Education offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.
View all EventsVisit and Connect With Us
With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.
Application Process
This program has multiple versions you can apply to. Find specific information about the application process for each program below.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the International Higher Education MEd are listed below:
Fall
Priority: February 15
Final: June 1
Please note, this program has a rolling admissions policy and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The start term for the International Higher Education MEd program depends on having a full cohort. If the minimum enrollment is not met, the program's start date may be postponed. We encourage you to apply early to secure your spot.
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the International Higher Education MEd include:
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
1 Letter of Recommendation
Resume/CV
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose Details
Your statement should be 800-1,500 words and describe your personal and professional interests and goals in international higher education, how the program will advance your professional goals, and life experiences that have influenced your view of social justice.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Direct Admission: International Higher Education MEd are listed below:
Fall
Priority: February 15
Final: June 1
Please note, this program has a rolling admissions policy and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The start term for the International Higher Education MEd program depends on having a full cohort. If the minimum enrollment is not met, the program's start date may be postponed. We encourage you to apply early to secure your spot.
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Direct Admission: International Higher Education MEd include:
Loyola transcripts (we will obtain these for you)
2.75 Minimum GPA
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose Details
Your statement should be 500-750 words and describe your personal and professional interests and goals in international higher education, how the program will advance your professional goals, and life experiences that have influenced your view of social justice.
DIRECT ADMISSION APPLICATIONOfficial Documents
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all institutions attended. Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts (with U.S. educational credentials) sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.
International Applicant Requirements
An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived, and unofficial transcripts will not be accepted for international applicants.
Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.
Start Your Application
Applying online to the International Higher Education MEd program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.
APPLY TODAY