30 U.S. Universities That Accept HND for Master’s and PhD Programs

If you hold a Higher National Diploma (HND) and are considering furthering your education in the United States, you might have heard it’s challenging. Some schools prefer a bachelor’s degree for graduate studies, but here’s the thing, it’s possible to get into a Master’s or even a PhD program with an HND, provided you approach the process strategically.

In this post, I’ll walk you through 30 universities in the U.S. that consider HND holders for graduate programs. I’ll also share some useful tips to strengthen your application, especially regarding evaluations and funding.

Things You Should Know Before Applying

1. Consider a Credential Evaluation
Most U.S. schools will want to know how your HND compares to their educational standards. Organizations like World Education Services (WES) evaluate credentials and can help translate your HND into an equivalent U.S. qualification. This evaluation is often a key step to making your application competitive.

2. Look for Flexible Admission Policies
Some universities are open to applicants with diverse educational backgrounds, especially if you have significant work experience or strong academic performance. When researching schools, check if they explicitly mention accepting HND holders or evaluate applications holistically.

3. Graduate Assistantships Can Be a Game-Changer
Graduate assistantships are positions where you work for the school (like teaching or research) while studying. They often come with tuition waivers and stipends, making education more affordable. Many of the schools on this list offer such opportunities.

30 U.S. Universities That Accept HND Holders

Here’s a curated list of universities. Some may require additional qualifications, like a pre-master’s program or extensive work experience, so it’s essential to confirm their specific requirements before applying.

1. Southern Illinois University (SIU)

Southern Illinois University is a great option for HND holders. They evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis, giving special consideration to work experience, academic performance, and credential evaluations like WES. If your HND aligns with your intended field of study, your chances are solid.

Why Consider SIU?
They offer assistantships and scholarships to international students, which can significantly reduce the cost of attendance.

2. Troy University

Troy University is known for its inclusivity and willingness to accept students with diverse educational backgrounds. They often admit HND holders into Master’s programs if you meet their additional requirements, like GRE scores or relevant work experience.

  • Website: Troy University
  • Programs to Explore: Computer Science, Business Administration, and Public Administration.

Why Consider Troy?
They have multiple campuses and a robust online learning platform, giving you flexibility in how you pursue your studies.

3. Illinois State University

Illinois State University has a holistic admissions policy, which means they consider your overall profile, including your HND, work history, and any certifications. A WES credential evaluation can boost your application here.

Why Consider Illinois State?
Their graduate assistantships often come with tuition waivers and stipends, making it an affordable choice for HND holders.

4. Lamar University

Lamar University, located in Texas, is another institution that accepts HND holders. They emphasize professional experience and encourage applications from candidates who have a clear goal for their studies.

  • Website: Lamar University
  • Programs to Explore: Engineering, Business, and Environmental Studies.

Why Consider Lamar?
Their relatively low tuition fees and supportive environment for international students make it a strong contender for HND graduates.

5. University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL)

The University of Houston-Clear Lake is a great option for HND holders, especially for programs in business, technology, and social sciences. They evaluate applications holistically and are open to diverse educational backgrounds.

Why Consider UHCL?
Their international student support services are excellent, and they frequently offer scholarships to qualified applicants.

6. Western Illinois University (WIU)

Western Illinois University is known for its inclusive admissions process. HND holders with strong academic performance or professional experience are often considered for their graduate programs.

Why Consider WIU?
They offer graduate assistantships, which can help offset tuition costs while providing valuable work experience.

7. Kent State University

Kent State University accepts HND holders into various graduate programs, especially if you’ve demonstrated academic potential or have a WES credential evaluation.

  • Website: Kent State University
  • Programs to Explore: Nursing, Business Administration, and Data Analytics.

Why Consider Kent State?
Their global reach and strong emphasis on research make it a good choice for students who want a supportive yet challenging academic environment.

8. Texas Southern University (TSU)

Texas Southern University offers opportunities for HND holders, particularly those with relevant work experience or additional certifications. Their admissions team often evaluates applicants holistically.

Why Consider TSU?
Located in Houston, TSU offers a vibrant academic atmosphere with access to internships and networking opportunities in a major U.S. city.

9. Wichita State University (WSU)

Wichita State University is another school that welcomes HND holders. They offer a wide range of graduate programs and evaluate candidates holistically. Professional experience can significantly enhance your application.

Why Consider WSU?
WSU has a strong focus on applied learning and internships, giving you practical experience while you study.

10. Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO)

Southeast Missouri State University is known for its accessible admission policies, making it an excellent option for HND holders. They evaluate applications on an individual basis and consider a combination of academic credentials and work experience.

Why Consider SEMO?
Their tuition fees are competitive, and they offer scholarships and assistantships to help reduce costs for international students.

11. University of Bridgeport (UB)

The University of Bridgeport is well-known for its inclusive admissions process, and they often consider HND holders for graduate programs. They emphasize a combination of academic achievements and work experience.

  • Website: University of Bridgeport
  • Programs to Explore: Biomedical Engineering, Business Administration, and Global Development.

Why Consider UB?
They offer generous scholarships and assistantships, and their programs are tailored for hands-on learning and career readiness.

12. Cleveland State University (CSU)

Cleveland State University accepts HND holders into several graduate programs, particularly if you can demonstrate academic potential and relevant experience. A WES evaluation is often beneficial here.

Why Consider CSU?
Their strong focus on research and urban engagement provides excellent opportunities for networking and internships.

13. Arkansas State University (A-State)

Arkansas State University is another institution that evaluates applications holistically. HND holders are often admitted into Master’s programs if they meet the school’s additional requirements, such as standardized test scores or work experience.

Why Consider A-State?
They offer competitive tuition fees, strong student support services, and a welcoming environment for international students.

14. Eastern Michigan University (EMU)

Eastern Michigan University has a history of admitting students with diverse academic qualifications, including HNDs. They prioritize candidates with relevant professional experience or additional certifications.

Why Consider EMU?
EMU is known for its accessible programs, affordable tuition, and excellent opportunities for international students to gain practical experience.

15. California State University (CSU)

The California State University system has multiple campuses, many of which accept HND holders for graduate programs. Admission requirements may vary by campus and program, so it’s important to check the specific policies of the campus you’re applying to.

Why Consider CSU?
The CSU system is known for its affordability and emphasis on applied learning, with many campuses offering assistantships and internships.

16. University of North Texas (UNT)

The University of North Texas is a top choice for HND holders, as they consider applicants with diverse academic backgrounds. A WES credential evaluation can strengthen your application.

Why Consider UNT?
They have a strong focus on research, and their graduate programs often include opportunities for assistantships that help offset tuition costs.

17. Minnesota State University, Mankato

Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a supportive environment for international students and accepts HND holders into many of their graduate programs. They value work experience and additional certifications alongside academic records.

Why Consider MNSU?
Their programs emphasize practical applications, and they offer scholarships for international students.

18. Montana State University (MSU)

Montana State University is another institution open to HND holders, particularly if you can demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level coursework through professional experience or strong academic performance.

Why Consider MSU?
They offer affordable tuition and a strong emphasis on research, with numerous funding opportunities for graduate students.

19. University of South Alabama (USA)

The University of South Alabama welcomes HND holders into several graduate programs. They evaluate applicants holistically, considering both academic records and professional experience.

Why Consider USA?
Their location provides unique opportunities for research, particularly in marine and environmental sciences.

20. Valdosta State University (VSU)

Valdosta State University accepts HND holders into various Master’s programs. They focus on candidates who can demonstrate potential through additional qualifications or relevant experience.

Why Consider VSU?
VSU is known for its affordable tuition and strong emphasis on personalized learning experiences for graduate students.

21. Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU)

Prairie View A&M University is an HBCU (Historically Black College and University) that welcomes HND holders for its graduate programs. They focus on holistic admissions, considering both academic and professional achievements.

Why Consider PVAMU?
Their location near Houston provides great networking and internship opportunities, especially for tech and business fields.

22. Jackson State University (JSU)

Jackson State University is another HBCU that admits HND holders into graduate programs. They emphasize academic performance and any professional experience you bring to the table.

  • Website: Jackson State University
  • Programs to Explore: Environmental Science, Public Policy, and Educational Leadership.

Why Consider JSU?
Their strong focus on community and innovation makes it an excellent environment for academic and personal growth.

23. Georgia Southern University (GSU)

Georgia Southern University accepts HND holders into a range of graduate programs. Applicants with relevant work experience or additional certifications have a higher chance of being admitted.

Why Consider GSU?
GSU has a strong commitment to applied learning and offers a variety of funding options for graduate students.

24. Old Dominion University (ODU)

Old Dominion University is open to HND holders who can demonstrate readiness for advanced studies through their academic background or professional accomplishments.

  • Website: Old Dominion University
  • Programs to Explore: Cybersecurity, Engineering Management, and International Studies.

Why Consider ODU?
Located in Virginia, ODU provides access to a thriving professional community and research opportunities in tech and defense sectors.

25. University of Central Missouri (UCM)

The University of Central Missouri evaluates applications holistically and admits HND holders who meet their academic or professional criteria. A WES credential evaluation can strengthen your application here.

Why Consider UCM?
They are known for their affordability and supportive environment for international students.

26. New Mexico State University (NMSU)

New Mexico State University accepts HND holders and evaluates applications holistically. They consider your academic background, work experience, and any additional certifications you may have.

Why Consider NMSU?
Their focus on research and affordability makes them a strong option, especially for international students looking for practical learning experiences.

27. North Carolina A&T State University (NC A&T)

North Carolina A&T State University, one of the largest HBCUs in the U.S., welcomes HND holders into its graduate programs. They value work experience and professional accomplishments alongside academic qualifications.

Why Consider NC A&T?
They have a strong reputation for innovation and research, particularly in STEM fields, with ample opportunities for funding and assistantships.

28. University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock admits HND holders into its graduate programs and evaluates candidates based on their overall profile, including any standardized test scores or WES evaluations.

Why Consider UALR?
They offer affordable tuition, a range of scholarships, and an excellent location with access to Arkansas’s growing business and tech industries.

29. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

Middle Tennessee State University is open to HND holders, especially those with relevant work experience or strong academic performance. They have flexible admission policies for international students.

Why Consider MTSU?
Their strong industry partnerships provide students with internship and job placement opportunities, making it a practical choice for career-focused individuals.

30. Bowie State University (BSU)

Bowie State University, another HBCU, accepts HND holders for graduate programs. They focus on holistic admissions, considering your academic achievements and any professional or leadership experience.

  • Website: Bowie State University
  • Programs to Explore: Educational Leadership, Computer Science, and Counseling.

Why Consider BSU?
They have a strong community-oriented environment and offer competitive tuition rates along with scholarships for international students.

Final Thoughts

Navigating graduate school applications as an HND holder might seem challenging, but it’s absolutely doable with the right strategy. The universities listed here recognize the value of diverse educational backgrounds and often prioritize your work experience, professional certifications, and overall potential.

Here’s my advice as you move forward:

  1. Research Thoroughly
    Each university has its unique admissions policies. Visit their websites, contact their admissions offices, and clarify specific requirements for HND holders. This ensures you’re applying with the right documents and meeting their expectations.
  2. Credential Evaluation
    Consider using services like WES (World Education Services) to evaluate your HND. A WES report can make your application more competitive by aligning your qualifications with U.S. standards.
  3. Highlight Your Strengths
    If you have professional experience, certifications, or other academic achievements, emphasize them in your application. Many of these schools value practical knowledge and skills just as much as academic qualifications.
  4. Funding Opportunities
    Explore scholarships, assistantships, and grants offered by the universities. Many schools on this list provide funding opportunities for international students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden.
  5. Be Proactive
    Don’t hesitate to reach out to graduate advisors, faculty members, or admissions representatives. Building connections can give you an edge and help you better understand the application process.

Remember, this process is a step toward achieving your academic and career goals. Stay organized, be patient, and put your best foot forward. If you need further assistance, I’m here to help. Best of luck with your applications!

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