ALAMOSA — The Adams State University Higher Education Administration and Leadership (HEAL) program recently added a state-approved graduate certificate program for advancement in higher education professionals.

Melissa Freeman, Ph.D., HEAL program director, established the Master of Arts HEAL program in 2010. This fall, she received state approval for the Executive Leadership Certificate (ELC). It is the first state-approved Adams State graduate certificate program.

The ELC is a 12-credit hour program designed for professionals with a master’s or doctorate degree. “The certificate program provides the foundation for individuals to move into a leadership position within higher education,” said Freeman.

Over the course of two years, post-graduate students will complete four courses, two required and two electives within the HEAL curriculum.

The Master of Arts in HEAL is an online program that prepares higher education professionals to manage and lead in institutions of higher education, especially Hispanic Serving Institutions, and enhance the success of the students they serve.

For more information regarding the HEAL master’s degree or certificate program, call 719-587-7934 or email [email protected].