Student Support Specialist, COHS

Paycom; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Carolina University College of Health Sciences seeks a Student Support Specialist to guide COHS students through academic planning, advising, and progression toward degree completion. You will advocate for students, communicate program requirements, and coordinate with faculty and support services.

The role emphasizes maintaining records, addressing inquiries on policies and licensure, and contributing to retention efforts to support student success in healthcare education.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent is required or equivalent advisement experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and counseling abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive academic advising to COHS students.
• Assist in program implementation and accreditation compliance.
• Maintain accurate records of advising sessions and degree progress.
• Monitor student progress and apply retention strategies.
• Collaborate with faculty and support services for holistic student support.
• Assist with enrollment data analysis and reporting.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Microsoft Office

Student database system

Multi-tasking

Punctuality

Counseling skills

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in healthcare

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Student database system

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Hattiesburg - Hattiesburg, MS 39401, Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Student Enrollment Coordinator, the student support specialist plays a pivotal role in supporting College of Health Sciences (COHS) students throughout their educational journey, providing guidance, resources, and mentorship to help them excel in their academic and professional endeavors. The student support specialist will serve as a trusted resource and advocate for students, assisting them in navigating the rigorous curriculum of the COHS programs and preparing them for successful careers in healthcare.

Duties and Responsibilities

This job description does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Duties and responsibilities listed are essential job functions and exclude functions which are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All

• Assist the university in implementing the Statement of Purpose.
• Assist the university in implementing the long-range institutional and financial plans.

Enrollment

• Assist the COHS in implementing programs in accordance with state and national accreditation standards.
• Provide comprehensive academic advising to COHS students, assisting them in developing personalized academic plans that align with their career goals and interests.
• Offer guidance on course selection, sequencing, and program requirements, ensuring students meet all prerequisites and graduation criteria.
• Address student inquiries regarding academic policies, procedures, and professional licensure requirements specific to the health care field.
• Monitor students' academic progress and performance, identifying and addressing challenges that may impact their success in their healthcare program.
• Implement retention strategies and interventions to support student persistence and academic achievement, particularly for at-risk and underrepresented student populations.
• Collaborate with faculty and support services to provide holistic support to COHS students, addressing academic, personal, and professional needs.
• Maintain accurate records of student advising sessions, academic plans, and progress towards degree completion, ensuring compliance with institutional and accreditation standards.
• Stay informed about regulatory changes, accreditation requirements, and industry trends affecting healthcare education, advising students and faculty accordingly.

Data Analysis

• Analyze, trend and track student enrollment data daily
• Analyze enrollment data per term and academic year
• Lead all campus specific data analysis
• Assist with program assessment, evaluation, and reporting efforts to support continuous improvement and quality assurance in COHS curriculums.

University

• Maintain an effective working relationship with university personnel, students, and the community.
• Maintain a clean and organized working environment.
• Demonstrate exceptional adherence to work schedules and COHS policies/procedures.
• Assist supervisor with additional job-related tasks as assigned.

Qualifications: Required Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent or previous advisement experience
• Ability to use common office productivity software, including Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, and Outlook).
• Ability to learn WCU’s student database system in depth.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills. Must always present a professional and respectful manner when dealing with a variety of situations and people.
• Superior work ethic and ability to exercise good judgment, demonstrate tactfulness and discretion at all times, and maintain confidentiality.
• Must have the ability to multi-task, complete multiple assignments, work independently, as well as with others and solve problem, have a high attention to detail and accuracy, and ability to meet deadlines and establish priorities.
• Must be punctual and regular in attendance and able to work required hours.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and counseling skills.
• Commitment to student success in COHS education.
• Must be able to perform duties in an on-campus setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare related field
• Previous experience in academic advising, student services, or COHS education
• Knowledge of COHS education standards, accreditation requirements, and licensure regulations

Physical Demands

• Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting, and to use standard office equipment including a phone and computer.
• Must have vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to effectively communicate in person and over the telephone.
• Must have the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time (up to 4 hours consistently)
• Must have strength and agility to move files, paper boxes, and minor office equipment.
• Must have ability and stamina to accompany students and paperwork to and from Student Services.