Student Support & Retention Nurse Specialist

UPMC•Altoona, PA

About The Position

Join UPMC Altoona in Shaping the Future of Nursing Education! The UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona is seeking a dynamic Student Support & Retention Nurse Specialist to champion student success and shape an exceptional learning experience for future nurses. This role is central to fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and academic achievement across the student journey, from pre-enrollment through graduation. This is an excellent opportunity for a nurse educator who is passionate about student development, academic support, and building a positive, supportive learning environment. Strong mentorship from experienced UPMC Schools of Nursing faculty and administrators is built into the role, sharing best practices and developing systemwide strategies that support student retention and success. Why Join UPMC Schools of Nursing? This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on the next generation of nurses while working in a supportive, mission-driven academic environment. You’ll help shape student success, influence program development, and collaborate with a dedicated team committed to excellence in nursing education.

Requirements

Master's degree or doctorate in Nursing or a related field required.
If Master's in a related field, BSN is required.
4 years of nursing experience required.
2 years of teaching or closely related experience required.
Must possess outstanding communication skills.
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products required.
Current licensure as a Registered Professional Nurse
CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire.
Act 33 with renewal
Act 34 with renewal
Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

Nice To Haves

Prior experience advising nursing students, and student services preferred.
Experience in academic support or academic counseling preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and evaluate evidence-based student support models that enhance retention, engagement, and academic success.
Provide individualized academic support, including study skills, test-taking strategies, critical thinking development, and time management coaching.
Identify at-risk students early using learning assessment tools and coordinate targeted support plans.
Offer non-academic support in partnership with Life Solutions to address holistic student needs.
Design strategies to support students re-entering the program after a break in enrollment and coordinate readmission processes.
Lead initiatives to improve student onboarding, orientation, and ongoing engagement.
Analyze student outcome data, satisfaction metrics, and retention trends to inform strategic action plans.
Assist with program evaluation and continuous quality improvement efforts across the Schools of Nursing.
Develop and maintain student policies and oversee the annual Student Handbook review and publication.
Mentor faculty in academic support strategies, student engagement, and best practices in nursing education.
Provide workshops for faculty and students.
Support faculty in developing resources for diverse learners and in implementing curriculum revisions.
Serve as a role model for continuous learning and professional development.
Serve on faculty senate, student support services committees, and other groups focused on student success.
Provide monthly updates to executive leadership and meet regularly with School of Nursing Directors.
Coordinate multi-campus initiatives, academic support meetings, and quality improvement processes.
Create a welcoming, inclusive learning environment that supports student socialization into the nursing profession.
Plan student events and opportunities to explore the local community.
Act as SNAP advisor and support SNAP chapter activities.