Grad Student Services Specialist

University of Colorado • Colorado Springs, CO

85d • $45,000 - $51,586

About The Position

The Graduate Student Services Specialist supports graduate programs in Criminal Justice and Public Administration by overseeing admissions, promoting enrollment and student persistence, and coordinating graduation processes. This role includes program advising, student communication, and planning select student-focused events. The Specialist also identifies and implements innovative process improvements and innovative programming to enhance the graduate student experience. The Graduate Student Services Specialist serves as a program liaison to the Graduate School. The Specialist is a member of internal and campus teams and committees relevant to the position, and as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
• At least one year of experience working in a higher education setting is required.
• Graduate-level education in student affairs, educational leadership, business, communication, public administration, criminal justice, or a related field may be substituted for work experience on a year-for-year basis.

Nice To Haves

• A Master's degree from an accredited institution in the following fields is preferred: student affairs, educational leadership, business, communication, public administration, or criminal justice.
• Previous experience in academic advising, degree planning, and problem-solving challenges experienced by current and/or prospective students is preferred.
• Familiarity with public administration, nonprofit management, and criminal justice systems is preferred.
• 2 or more years of experience working with students in higher education settings is preferred.
• Knowledge of higher education data systems such as OnBase, Slate, and/or Sales Force is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Responds to initial inquiries about Criminal Justice and Public Administration programs.
• Maintains consistent communication with prospective and admitted students, providing guidance throughout the admissions process.
• Coordinates with the Admissions office and program directors to process graduate applications.
• Assists graduate students with registration, student forms, and/or other student services issues.
• Establishes, maintains, and monitors graduate student records from application through graduation; implements actions as appropriate (e.g., probationary status letters).
• Supports student experience by navigating and troubleshooting enrollment and admissions issues.
• Manages intercampus enrollment and transfer credit processes for graduate students.
• Completes end-of-semester reviews after each fall, spring, and summer term to ensure students are meeting their admission and program requirements.
• Collaborates with program faculty and leadership to support Capstone and Thesis implementation, including: coordinating orientations, processing pre-registration checklist paperwork, completing course audits, and issuing permission numbers to approved students.
• Conducts graduation degree audits, prepares Admission to Candidacy forms, submits required documentation to the Graduate School, and tracks the status of graduation applications.
• Collaborates with faculty and staff to inform policy, procedure, and process regarding graduate student needs and outcomes.
• Coordinates annual and ad hoc updates to the student handbooks in collaboration with program directors.
• Works with CPS deans, department leadership, faculty, and staff as well as other related campus personnel as appropriate to achieve unit goals related to student services.
• Coordinates student communications and contributes to marketing and recruitment efforts.
• Assists faculty and staff in coordinating student-focused events, including Capstone poster presentations and graduation celebrations.
• Organizes orientation activities for new students and attends Graduate School orientations.
• Collaborates with department faculty and program directors on tabling/attendance at campus and regional recruitment and promotional events.
• Conducts student retention events with the department leadership.
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 22 vacation days, 10 sick days, paid parental leave, 13 recognized holidays, and provisions for bereavement, jury duty, and FAMLI Leave.
• Robust Health Coverage: Our comprehensive medical plans cover preventative care at no cost, including a yearly mental health visit. Plus, benefit from affordable dental, vision plans, and competitive prescription drug prices.
• Financial & Retirement Benefits: Take advantage of our health savings, flexible spending accounts, and life and disability insurance. Plan for your future with our retirement options.
• Further Your Education: Avail twelve (12) waived credits per academic year for courses at any CU campus. We invest in your educational and professional growth.
• Wellness & More: From wellness programs aimed at achieving your best self to various additional benefits through CU Advantage, we prioritize well-being and holistic development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree