PhD in Educational Studies, Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA)

The HESA doctoral program has prepared leaders for higher education and student affairs for more than six decades. This tradition is reflected in our numerous alumni, many of whom are senior leaders in the field. Our students, too, are recognized for their involvement and leadership in and out of the classroom. Above all, our comprehensive curriculum emphasizes rigorous research and professional development, which creates wonderful opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community-building.

Students can research a variety of topics in the HESA program. College students’ identity and identity development, organizational theory, policy and governance, service-learning and leadership are just some of the areas in which students can develop expertise.

Students take a variety of courses in the HESA program. Courses in college student development, law, policy and governance, organizational theory, administration of higher education, counseling, service-learning and leadership are among the offerings. You also take courses in qualitative and quantitative research methods.

The Student Personnel Assistantship Program (SPA) is a part of HESA. The SPA Program connects HESA students with assistantship opportunities across and even beyond Ohio State’s campus. Learn more about funding, interviews, and admissions processes.