Academic Advisor, Assistant Professor

Ferris State University•Big Rapids, MI

23h•Onsite

About The Position

This position, located on the Big Rapids campus, will serve as the primary contact for prospective and enrolled students in the College of Health Professions, including online and on-campus undergraduate programs. Assisting students with program requirements, program planning, processing course substitutions, and maintaining accurate student records are the primary responsibilities of this position. Attending recruiting events and scheduling/attending other student informational sessions to answer program questions and increase student enrollments will also be required, primarily within Michigan. Ability to work evenings and /or some weekends to meet the needs of students. Travel is required. The anticipated start date of this position is June 2026. However, this is an estimated date and can be revised if needed.

Requirements

Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field.
One year of relevant experience, preferably in a higher education setting with a student support assignment.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to recognize and refer students to appropriate University and community resources.
Create and update student records.
Gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
Maintain calendars and scheduled appointments.
Use independent judgement and to manage confidential information.
Work independently to meet deadlines and timelines.
Analyze and solve problems related to professional responsibilities.
Review and understand course prerequisites, program course requirements and graduation requirements.
Review student transcripts and/or records for advising purposes.
Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences

Nice To Haves

Participate in scholarly and professional development activities related to student advising, retention, and student success.
Active membership in professional organizations.
Communicate effectively with faculty, department chairs/heads, lead advisors, program coordinators, department leadership, and dean's office personnel to ensure that accurate data and information is provided to students.
Participate in University, College, and/or departmental committees.
Actively participate in registration activities (e.g. summer orientation, pre-registration, late registration, etc.)
Prepare communication in support of advising activities and initiatives.
Provide information and referrals regarding University policies, additional resources, programs, and services that will support student success.
Knowledge of academic standards governing student probation, suspension and/or expulsion.
Knowledge of student persistence and completion issues.

Responsibilities

Provide academic advising, which includes assisting students in the development of academic plans and course schedules, advising on academic program changes, and meeting with prospective students and their families.
Demonstrate understanding of academic program planning and application of advising theory with related experience.
Maintain individual student records as appropriate, updating and evaluating as new information is received.
Consistently review student records to verify that progress is being made toward degree completion and provide outreach and support to students on probationary status.
Provide timely answers to student inquiries and assist students in the selection of appropriate courses and concentrations in terms of students' stated preferences.
Regularly assist students in identifying curricular and scheduling issues that may affect their time to degree.
Prepare accurate summaries and reports as requested.
Maintain confidentiality of information and perform duties in compliance with applicable laws, policies, and procedures related to primary and college/department-specific responsibilities.
Provide dependable year-round specialized academic advising for specified students.
When applicable, demonstrate satisfactory instruction to students in assigned courses.
Cultivate an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
Supports, promotes & develops University student enrollment & retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.