Program Specialist (School of Social Work and Criminal Justice)

University of Washington•Tacoma, WA

About The Position

The School of Social Work and Criminal Justice Program Specialist advances the School’s academic and field education priorities and contributes to short- and long-term planning to support a high-quality student educational experience. The position coordinates across School leadership, faculty, staff, students, and external community partners, providing analytical, operational, and communications support to keep programs aligned and functioning effectively. It carries significant administrative responsibility and requires independent judgment, discretion, and a commitment to cohesive program operations. The role leads academic and field program operations, including confidential documentation and planning support, policy and procedure guidance, deadline and schedule oversight, event execution, practicum database management, placement data accuracy, communications planning, and website content maintenance. It also manages course scheduling and curriculum processes in collaboration with Program Chairs, Directors, faculty, and university offices, and supports prospective and current students with program information, records, and enrollment monitoring.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, or a related field, and at least two years of experience in program administration or related experience; equivalent education and/or experience may substitute where permitted.
Ability to work independently and as part of teams.
Strategic and problem-solving experience, with strong planning and organizational skills.
Ability to work effectively and cooperatively with a wide range of constituencies.
Experience in event planning and implementation.
Strong time management and attention to detail; ability to multitask, prioritize competing demands, meet deadlines and project milestones, and be flexible and resourceful.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to handle executive-level confidential information with discretion and diplomacy.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Access, and experience with software functions for producing reports and charts.
Ability to manage, edit, and maintain web and social media platforms.
Demonstrated commitment to inclusivity and working with diverse populations.
Reliable source of transportation.

Nice To Haves

Three or more years of administrative experience.
Experience working within higher education curricula, policies, and procedures.
Experience with university or college admissions processes.
Customer service or relations background.

Responsibilities

Develop, organize, and maintain confidential documentation related to academic and field education planning for the Dean, Administrative and Program Directors, and Program Chairs; advise on policy compliance and procedural issues.
Keep School leadership, faculty, and staff informed about program activities, priorities, and deadlines; formulate recommendations, help solve problems, and oversee schedules and obligations.
Lead, plan, staff, and execute academic and field program events.
Manage the practicum student database (PRISM), including student, agency, and placement tracking data, and ensure data accuracy.
Develop, implement, and assess strategic communications plans for academic and field programs; direct content creation and distribution through social media, university channels, and other media.
Ensure accuracy of written materials and maintain the SSWCJ website and its content updates.
Lead course scheduling and curriculum management entry functions for the School and manage curriculum processes in collaboration with Program Chairs and Directors.
Manage implementation of the quarterly teaching schedule, liaise with the UWT Registrar on the Time Schedule and classroom needs, and maintain current and historical course schedule databases.
Manage classroom scheduling requests while considering constraints and special needs.
Collaborate with faculty to review and update curriculum; liaise with campus and university curriculum and registration offices to resolve issues and implement changes.
Review curriculum regularly and recommend changes to improve course implementation and degree accessibility.
In partnership with the Admissions Manager and Recruiter, provide program information and application requirements to prospective students and serve as a contact for prospective and current students, faculty, staff, and community constituents.
Collaborate with the Admissions Manager and Recruiter to manage student records through post-admission stages and monitor enrollment data to assist with enrollment goals.