CGU's diverse and experienced student body is comprised mainly of education professionals. Study is based on a multidisciplinary view of theory and research, and a commitment to developing educational environments that are just, relevant, and rigorous. Collectively the faculty is knowledgeable and grounded in education as well as sociology, cultural studies, anthropology, philosophy, psychology, law, sociolinguistics, gender/sexuality studies, politics, religion, and literature.

The Master of Arts prepares individuals to staff professional, entry-level and middle management positions in academic, administrative, institutional, public policy, and student affairs offices of two-and four-year colleges and universities, multi-campus systems, foundations, and government agencies. The program works best for individuals who have had some work experience.

The Ph.D. program is designed for individuals with a commitment to applying a multidisciplinary view of theory and research. While CGU Education students are as diverse as the programs they design, they are, in general, mature professionals who bring a wealth of personal and professional experience to their studies, as well as a commitment to scholarly endeavors.

Both degrees are highly individualized and designed to meet the career and personal goals of each student. Doctoral and master's level studies in higher education lend themselves to subfields in the following areas:

• Organization and Management

• Human Development/Adult Development

• History and Philosophy

• Public Policy Analysis

• Student Affairs

• Community College Leadership  

Students are supported if they wish to take some of their course work in fields other than education.

Courses:

In order to accommodate the schedules of full-time professionals, courses are taught mainly at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Some courses especially dealing with higher education/adult development include:

• Historical and Philosophical Foundations of American Higher Education

• The Politics and Governance of Higher Education

• The American Faculty

• Organizational Implications of Diversity in Higher Education

• Public Policy Dimensions of Higher Education

• Adult Development

• Adolescent Development

• The College Student Experience and Implications for the Administration of Higher Education

• College Student Development

• Leadership in Higher Education

• Institutional Planning and Assessment in Educational Settings

• Gender Issues in Education

• Adult Education

• The Economics and Finance of Schools and Colleges

• Issues in Community College Administration