Academic Advisor - Degree Completion

Advises undergraduate adult students regarding programs and course requirements to ensure a clear pathway to graduation. Champions retention efforts by creating rapport with students and tracking and monitoring progress by developing reports. Coordinates efforts across campus to ensure student persistence and provides timely and professional communication with students.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in related field required
2. Two years experience in educational office environment with knowledge of academic programs and policies preferred
3. Knowledge of and experience in handling official student records and academic advising
4. Knowledge of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
5. Knowledge of California Community College system preferred (including but not limited to catalog information course descriptions, registration dates and policies, transferability of courses, and other information pertinent to the transfer of courses)
6. Proficient in Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.)
7. Proficient in institutional integrated database applications and/or willingness and aptitude to learn other data management programs adopted by the University as needed

General Expectations:

1. Personal relationship with Jesus, a vibrant Christian faith, and a commitment to Christian community; capable of sharing faith and engaging in conversations about Christ.
2. Demonstrate Simpson University Values in the performance of all duties
3. Maintain lifestyle in accordance with Simpson University Lifestyle Policy in Staff Handbook
4. Maintain the confidentiality of information, data and records. Properly use tact, diplomacy, discretion and judgment
5. Demonstrate strong customer service skills in the performance of job duties
6. Demonstrate good organizational and communication skills in the performance of job duties
7. Support the overflow needs of other departments within the respective university area
8. Perform other duties in accordance with this position as deemed necessary by the immediate supervisor

Essential Functions:

• Serve as the Academic Advisor for adult undergraduate students, develop educational plans, and provide accountability for students placed on academic warning, probation, or provisional status
• Plan and register students for courses each semester
• Create avenues of communication with students including through digital resources
• Update the student database, review and maintain student records, conduct data analysis, and respond to requests for information by developing reports.
• Analyze and resolve student issues associated with program requirements and course scheduling by interpreting and applying academic policies.
• Assist students in completing all required general education credits through the ongoing evaluation of courses and transcripts
• Oversee the application for degree process including performing degree audits and exit interview process
• Spearhead communication cycle with students including monthly newsletter
• Plan and collaborate with other departments to offer programmatic events such as Alpha Sigma Lambda, Coffee Breaks, and presentations pertaining to adult learners

Provide support with other projects in the department as needed