Graduate Services Specialist (Contingent II)

Maryland Connect • Patuxent Riding, MD

2d

About The Position

The Graduate Services Specialist provides essential academic advising, student support, and administrative coordination to graduate students throughout their academic journey at Bowie State University. This role serves as a frontline resource for graduate students, offering guidance on academic policies, program requirements, and degree progression while connecting students with campus resources that promote persistence and success. The Specialist works collaboratively with faculty program coordinators, academic departments, the Office of Admissions, and recruitment partners to support enrollment and retention goals. The ideal candidate is a strong team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and is committed to delivering high-quality, student-centered service.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, Education, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of professional experience in academic advising, student services, admissions, or higher education administration.
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with faculty program coordinators and partnering with multiple departments.
• Proven ability to function effectively as a team player in a professional environment.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and customer service skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply academic policies accurately and consistently.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting graduate student populations.
• Knowledge of admissions processes and student information systems (e.g., Slate, Banner, PeopleSoft).
• Familiarity with recruitment and retention practices in higher education.
• Student-centered approach with a commitment to service excellence.
• Collaborative mindset with strong teamwork skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational ability.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Graduate Student Advising & Support Provide comprehensive advising to graduate students and applicants regarding program requirements, academic policies, degree milestones, and graduation processes.
• Assist students with course planning, registration concerns, petitions, and interpretation of academic regulations.
• Monitor student progress toward degree completion and proactively support students experiencing academic challenges.
• Respond to inquiries in a timely, professional, and student-focused manner across multiple communication channels.
• Partner with faculty program coordinators to ensure accurate advising and alignment with curriculum requirements.
• Help organize and facilitate orientations, workshops, and engagement initiatives that promote student success.
• Admissions Coordination & Liaison Duties Serve as a primary departmental contact with the Office of Admissions to coordinate application review and communicate requirements and timelines.
• Collaborate with faculty and admissions staff to support efficient and holistic application evaluations.
• Monitor applicant status and assist with documentation tracking to facilitate timely admissions decisions.
• Conduct outreach to admitted students and provide guidance through enrollment steps.
• Graduate Recruitment Support Participate in recruitment initiatives such as information sessions, open houses, and graduate fairs.
• Communicate effectively with prospective students regarding academic programs, admissions requirements, and university resources.
• Work collaboratively with recruitment teams, academic leadership, and campus partners to support enrollment strategies.
• Assist in developing recruitment communications and materials aligned with university priorities.
• Operational & Collaborative Activities Maintain accurate student records within the student information system in compliance with university policies and FERPA.
• Work closely with faculty program coordinators, academic departments, and administrative offices to ensure coordinated service delivery.
• Contribute to initiatives that enhance graduate student services, retention, and the overall student experience.
• Support special projects and operational needs as assigned.
• Foster a collaborative office culture by actively contributing as a reliable and supportive team member.

Benefits

• Benefits include medical, dental, prescription, long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment insurance and life insurance; paid time for paid sick leave and annual leave; 10 paid holidays per year, tuition remission and supplemental retirement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level