Program Specialist

Northeastern Illinois University; United States; On-site; USD 46,800 - 57,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Vacation days

Sick days

Retirement system participation

Job summary

Northeastern Illinois University seeks a Program Specialist to assist students in navigating educational options and degree requirements. This role involves providing academic advisement, maintaining student records, and advocating for students’ needs.

Candidates should possess a Master's degree and experience in academic advising. The position offers a salary of $52,000 and eligibility for various state benefits, including health and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Two years or more of academic advising experience at the college/university level.
• Ability to plan, implement, and deliver academic advising services.
• Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic advisement and educational planning to students.
• Encourage and guide students to define realistic educational goals.
• Collect assessment data and report on academic progress.

Skills

Academic advising

Interpersonal communication

Record keeping

Decision-making skills

Education

Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Higher Education, or a related field

Job description

Job Summary

The Program Specialist reports to the Director of the Advising Center and assists students in learning about educational options, degree requirements, and university policies. The role provides guidance in clarifying educational objectives and developing an academic plan appropriate to students’ goals, advocates on behalf of students, and introduces them to support services and resources within the university community.

Job Description

Provide academic advisement and educational planning to newly admitted and continuing students who have not declared a major. Assist students on a walk‑in basis or through scheduled appointments, and respond to 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
• interpretation of university policies and procedures

Encourage and guide students to define and develop realistic educational goals, assisting them in gaining decision‑making skills and planning programs consistent with their interests and abilities.

Maintain comprehensive, accurate records of all student contacts in electronic format. Maintain a caseload of assigned students: monitor 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 appropriate times (e.g., to discuss NEIUStar, probation/dismissal, declaration of major, and retention 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 the importance of engaging in career exploration activities and provide information and referrals to campus resources such as the Office of Career Development.

Collect assessment data and report on the academic progress and retention of assigned students, including:

• Academic Plan Assignment completion rates
• Academic Plan for Financial Aid Appeal completion rates and follow‑up meetings

Foster intentional contact with other departmental and college advisors to ensure consistency and accuracy of information transmitted to students, and facilitate transition 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.

Minimal Qualifications

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

Salary Range

$52,000

Benefits

University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits, including health, dental, vision, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Northeastern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from Women, Minorities, Veterans, and Persons with Disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals.