Program Specialist

Northeastern Illinois University•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Program Specialist reports to the Director of the Advising Center. The Program Specialist assists students in learning about educational options, degree requirements, and University policies and procedures, as well as providing students with guidance in clarifying educational objectives and developing an academic plan appropriate to their educational/career goals. The Program Specialist also advocates on behalf of students and introduces students to the many support services and resources available within the university community.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Higher Education, or a related field.
Two years or more of academic advising experience is required, preferably at the college/university level.
Demonstrate the ability to plan, implement, and deliver academic advising services and activities directed toward facilitating the personal growth, achievement, and retention of students.
Demonstrate exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a highly diverse constituency.
Background check required.

Responsibilities

Provide academic advisement and educational planning to newly admitted and continuing students who have not declared a major.
Assist students on either a walk-in basis or through scheduled appointments.
Respond to, and assist, students via electronic and phone contacts in a timely manner.
Advise and assist students with: interpretation of test scores; course pre-requisites; course selection and sequencing; registration; academic planning; general education requirements; major selection; graduation requirements; and interpretation of university policies and procedures.
Encourage and guide students to define and develop realistic educational goals; assist them in gaining decision-making skills and planning programs which are consistent with their interests and abilities.
Maintain comprehensive, accurate records of all student contacts in electronic format.
Maintain a caseload of assigned students: monitor student progress; recommend solutions to academic difficulties; provide probation counseling; and assist with petitions for financial aid and academic reinstatement.
Intentionally initiate phone and e-mail contact with advisees prior to fall, spring, and summer registration and at other times as appropriate, i.e., to discuss items raised in NEIUStar, probation/dismissed, declaration of major and other retention and time-to-degree issues and/or initiatives.
Advocate on behalf of students when appropriate.
Provide and accept referral services within the university community and conduct appropriate follow-up.
Participate in First-Year and Transfer Orientation; conduct individual advising sessions with new students.
Present Academic Planning Assignment in FYE classes during the fall and spring semesters.
Emphasize importance of engaging in career exploration activities; provide information and referrals to various campus resources such as Office of Career Development.
Collect assessment data and report on the academic progress and retention of assigned students, including: Academic Plan Assignment completion rates and Academic Plan for Financial Aid Appeal completion rates and follow-up meetings.
Foster intentional contact with other departmental and college advisors to ensure the consistency and accuracy of information transmitted to students, as well as facilitate transition of students into the major.
Participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Advising Center services, goals, and objectives.
Participate in program-related meetings, including staff and committee meetings, as well as professional development workshops, conferences, and activities as time and resources allow.