WHAT IS AN ACADEMIC ADVISOR ?
Updated: Oct 03, 2024 - The Academic Advisor is tasked with undertaking research to develop detailed and strategic options and credit plans for students. These plans are designed to facilitate a seamless transition into their desired institution, encompassing precise estimates for degree completion, total costs, and potential savings.
Need-to-Know Overview of an Academic Advisor
1. Academic Advisor Duties and Roles
- Responsible for researching colleges and governmental policies as it influences degree options.
- Responsible for creating degree option estimates for students with or without previous transfer credit.
- Create and maintain line by line credit plans that meet school degree and graduation requirements.
- Responsible for providing academic consultation support to members of the Admissions, Student Services, Coaching and Research team.
- Ensure constant communication of any changes regarding institutional policies and/or procedures.
- Become proficient in various software programs, institutional resources and learn to execute operations in a fast pace environment.
- Attend weekly departmental/individual meetings and training sessions as assigned by your manager.
- Responsible for completing degree options on time for Academic Counselors to present the information to a student on the scheduled date and time set forth in the research request.
- Responsible for other duties as assigned by your manager.
2. Academic Advisor Skills, Experience and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field
- Minimum two years of professional advising experience in a higher education setting (such as advising, counseling, or academic success)
- Comprehension of student development theory and dedication to a holistic approach to advising
- Evidence of strong written and communication skills
- Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, Peoplesoft, Navigate and OnBase
- Experience in working with first year and non-traditional students
- Experience in working with transfer students
- Ability to adapt to new and rapidly changing situations
- Experience working with/advising underrepresented populations, including first- generation college students
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to handle competing priorities
Career Overview FAQs
What does a career overview explain?
A career overview explains what a profession involves, including the purpose of the role, the type of work professionals typically perform, and how the position contributes to organizations or industries. It helps readers understand the field before exploring more detailed resources such as job responsibilities, required skills, and career requirements.
What do professionals in this career typically do?
Professionals in this field usually manage projects or tasks, collaborate with teams, analyze information, and solve problems related to business or organizational objectives. Daily responsibilities may vary depending on experience level, specialization, and the organization where the role is performed.
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Most careers require a combination of technical skills related to the profession and professional skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, and analytical thinking. These abilities help professionals perform effectively in different work environments and across various organizational roles.
What is the typical career path in this field?
Many professionals begin in entry-level roles where they gain foundational knowledge and practical experience. Over time, they may progress to mid-level or senior positions that involve greater responsibility, specialization, or leadership within their organization or industry.
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Starting a career in this field typically involves building relevant knowledge, gaining practical experience, and developing the key skills associated with the profession. Preparing strong application materials, such as a targeted resume and cover letter, can also help candidates pursue entry-level opportunities successfully.
Editorial Process
Lamwork content is developed through structured review of publicly available job postings and documented hiring trends.
Editorial operations are managed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor, with research direction and final oversight by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead. Content is periodically reviewed to reflect observable labor market changes.