Academic Advisor job description template

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Academic Advisor Job Description Template

An academic advisor provides essential support and guidance to help students navigate their academic programs and make informed decisions regarding their educational goals. Advisors support student success by helping them create personalized academic plans, select courses, understand graduation requirements, and connect with campus resources. In higher education, academic advisors play a crucial role in student retention, offering a pathway for students to set, pursue, and reach their career goals.

Use this academic advisor job description template to attract candidates skilled in academic advising with experience working in higher education. When looking to streamline hiring, connect with experienced advisors on Upwork who are ready to assist students in achieving their academic and career goals.

Job Overview

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated academic advisor to join our institution. In this role, the academic advisor will assist students in developing educational plans, understanding degree requirements, and staying on track toward graduation. This advisor will work closely with students to support their academic progress, monitor their student records, and provide referrals to support services as necessary.

Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in higher education, counseling, or a related field and bring work experience in academic advising. An advanced master’s degree in academic advising or higher education administration is highly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

An academic advisor is responsible for a wide range of duties that help students achieve their academic and career goals. Key responsibilities include:

  • Guiding students in course selection and academic planning. Work with students to develop academic plans that align with their career goals and meet all degree requirements.
  • Monitoring academic progress. Regularly check student progress to ensure they are meeting their academic goals and fulfilling graduation requirements.
  • Providing referrals to campus resources. Connect students with support services and campus resources as necessary, including tutoring, mental health services, and career counseling.
  • Conducting academic advising sessions. Offer academic advising sessions to discuss academic policies, program requirements, and career planning.
  • Engaging in student orientation. Help new students understand academic policies, program expectations, and opportunities on campus.
  • Maintaining student records. Keep accurate student records and advising notes to track academic progress and document advising interactions.
  • Collaborating on retention initiatives. Work with student services and student success teams to develop retention initiatives and programs to foster academic achievement.
  • Supporting professional development. Engage in professional development activities to stay updated on academic advising best practices and higher education trends.
  • Assisting with degree audits. Help students conduct degree audits to identify their progress and requirements for graduation.

Qualifications and Skills

An effective academic advisor should possess the following qualifications and skills:

  • Education. A bachelor’s degree in higher education, counseling, or a related field is required; a master’s degree is preferred.
  • Experience. Prior work experience in academic advising, student services, or higher education.
  • Communication skills. Excellent communication skills for guiding students through complex academic information and degree requirements.
  • Interpersonal skills. Ability to connect with diverse student populations and demonstrate empathy for individual student needs.
  • Organizational skills. Strong organizational skills for maintaining student records and tracking academic progress.
  • Understanding of degree programs. Knowledge of degree programs, program requirements, and graduation requirements is essential.
  • Problem-solving skills. Ability to help students navigate academic challenges and offer viable solutions for achieving their academic goals.
  • Knowledge of campus resources. Familiarity with campus resources and support services available to students.

About Our Company

[Company Name] is a dedicated educational institution committed to promoting academic success and supporting students through every phase of their education. As part of our advising team, you’ll play an essential role in helping students define their academic and career goals while connecting them to resources that support their overall development. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of our students as they navigate their academic journey.

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