Assistant Director of Graduate Education Programs

Merrimack College•North Andover, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The School of Education and Social Policy has an opening for an Assistant Director of Graduate Education Programs. Under the direct supervision of the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs, the Assistant Director provides comprehensive services, including advising, to master’s level students in the School of Education and Social Policy's degree and certificate programs, as well as non-matriculated students. The Assistant Director works collaboratively with staff and faculty and other personnel to ensure high-quality advising and academic services for all graduate students, with particular emphasis on supporting incoming, transfer, and at-risk students. The role requires a background in PK-12 education, deep understanding of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regulations and licensure requirements, leadership experience, and a capacity for effective and empathic communication with students. In addition, candidates must demonstrate proficiency with computer-based registration and academic records technology, including Canvas, Jenzabar, and Slate, and the ability to respond effectively to the varied needs of master’s student populations in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

Master’s degree required
Experience in PK-12 educational settings
Deep understanding of DESE and licensure requirements
Previous experience in academic advising or student support
Excellent oral and written communication skills, in both online and in-person interactions
Strong organizational and interpersonal abilities
Proficiency with Google Suite and ability to create and maintain data management systems
Capacity to work independently and collaboratively with College personnel
Understanding of student development and commitment to holistic student advising approach
Skilled in small group presentations with awareness of confidentiality requirements
Ability to manage high-volume, complex, and varied student needs
Ability to recognize at-risk individuals and provide appropriate support
Knowledge of FERPA, Title IX, and the College’s academic policies

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in Teacher Education, Counseling, or Higher Education
Five to seven years experience serving a wide variety of populations
Willingness and capacity to take initiative, furthering professional growth

Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs, coordinate academic advising and registration for graduate students within the School of Education and Social Policy.
Serve collaboratively with the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs, as a secondary liaison to the Office of Admission, helping prospects with questions.
Help students with operational processes, including: course registration, course withdrawal, program withdrawal, and onboarding.
Maintain student records in accordance with existing College protocols and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) policies, procedures, and regulations.
Initiate changes to academic plans as required over the duration of students’ programming.
Serve as an intermediary between the academic review team and success coaches to support student academic progress and success.
Build collaborative and supportive relationships with full-time and adjunct faculty.
Maintain student records and assist students in tracking degree progress under the direction of the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs.
Join the team representing the School of Education and Social Policy at graduate admission and orientation events throughout the year as needed.
Make appropriate referrals to professionals across campus and serve as overall communication liaison for students.
Prepare graduate advising resources and video-based assets for orienting and onboarding new students, updating web content, and marketing fliers as needed.
Provide comprehensive, individualized, and small group advising to varied student populations throughout six enrollment terms per academic year, including prospective, new, reenrolling, and transferring students
Address all student issues related to registration, degree requirements, and teacher education licensure concentrations as aligned with the DESE.
Assist students with complex academic planning, including goal setting, self-assessment, time management, course selection, and transfer credit (in collaboration with the Assistant Dean)
Under the direction of the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs, work with the Director of K-12 Placement and Licensure to ensure compliance with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requirements for licensure programs
Remain current with changes in all School of Education and Social Policy graduate education degree and certificate programs
Work with the Assistant Dean of Graduate Programs to support at-risk students experiencing academic and personal challenges
Address relevant issues and make appropriate referrals to College support departments
Participate in information sessions for current and prospective students
Attend evening and weekend activities, including Open Houses, graduate celebrations, Commencement, and other institutional events
Provide administrative support, including management of advising records, course scheduling input, and website maintenance
Alert the Assistant Dean regarding student issues requiring more comprehensive intervention
Demonstrate understanding of Title IX, FERPA, and other compliance requirements
Engage collaboratively with colleagues and campus stakeholders to meet the institutional mission
Maintain current knowledge of best practices in graduate student services and advising