Academic Advisor I-ADVCT

Position Overview

Provides guidance and counseling to students in matters related to academic goals, choice of curriculum, course load, study habits, and course scheduling. Completes degree checks for individual students and student groups as needed. Assists with student orientation. Develops and/or completes college/school documents such as classroom assignments, plans of study, curriculum guides, graduation forms, and study abroad documentation. Typically exempt and does not supervise other staff (may supervise students). The general schedule for this position is 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Department Specific Essential Job Functions

• Informs students on appropriate academic schedules, choice of major, number of hours available, probation, and suspension; suggests remedial or corrective actions.
• Guides students in the selection of a major.
• Completes degree audits for individual students and student groups as needed.
• Acts as a resource for academic information and decision-making strategies.
• Acts as a liaison between the University academic departments, UCO students, and prospective students.
• Articulates coursework as needed.
• Participates in training and evaluative sessions.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Level

Scope and impact: This position is an entry level professional position, with actions that may have a measurable impact on operations within a work group.

Communication and interaction: Routinely answers questions and provides information and data requested by individuals within or outside of work area. Questions that require interpretation or are not easily resolved are referred to Supervisor.

Effective knowledge: Demonstrates ability to execute tasks according to standard operating procedures and/or direction. Demonstrates ability to learn new subject matter, coupled with attention to detail and responsiveness to feedback.

Problem solving and judgment: Performs a variety of duties following established policies and procedures. Resolves problems by selecting from approved alternatives based on past practices, established procedures, or direction. Relies on direct supervision is available to set priorities and objectives, and to assist in problem resolution.

Budget authority: May provide input into budget development by assisting with identification of operational needs and requirements.

Policy and procedure authority: Primarily responsible for executing routine procedures with direction from senior staff.

Reporting relationships: Generally, reports to Assistant Director of Academic Advisement but may receive basic operational direction and guidance from senior level staff members.

Does this position supervise others? No

Qualifications/Experience Required

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling or related field or 4+ years of equivalent work experience in chosen field that provides knowledge of and exposure to fundamental theories, principles, and concepts. Requires the application of expertise in a chosen field to achieve results.

Qualifications/Experience Preferred

Prior academic advising/counseling experience. Must be proficient in basic mathematics. Familiarity with admission and enrollment process at the University of Central Oklahoma or in an institution of higher education setting and its undergraduate degree programs. Willingness to work within the academic framework of the University and to serve on faculty and student committees.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Skills and behavior: Technical proficiency; trust and credibility; dedication; self-awareness; Accepting ambiguity; team player; time management skills; independent; results oriented. Knowledgeable in the higher education attainment process, particularly the requirements and general value of education. Demonstration of a warm and caring professional attitude and creative counseling techniques. Ability to communicate effectively with department chairpersons and/or deans regarding degree program requirements. Ability to work well under pressure.

Physical Demands

Reasonable accommodations (in accordance with ADA requirements) may be made, upon request, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.