Senior Academic Advisor - Graduate Programs (Hybrid Opportunity)

About UMass Amherst

The flagship of the Commonwealth, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a nationally ranked public land-grant research university that seeks to expand educational access, fuel innovation and creativity, and share and use its knowledge for the common good. Founded in 1863, UMass Amherst sits on nearly 1,450-acres in scenic Western Massachusetts and boasts state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity. The institution advances a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued-and thrives, and offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees across 10 schools and colleges, and 100 undergraduate majors. We believe every member of our university community can contribute to our ongoing success by striving for the highest level of excellence as we seek breakthrough solutions to mounting environmental, social, economic, and technological challenges in our world.

Job Summary

The Senior Academic Advisor for Graduate Programs provides comprehensive advising for graduate students within the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS). Works closely with advising personnel to ensure high quality advising and academic services and demonstrates a commitment to engaging students and contributing to their success.

Essential Functions

• Provides comprehensive, individualized advising to a diverse population of graduate students. Helps students select courses that match their academic or career interests and fulfill their program requirements. Responds to at-risk students experiencing academic and personal difficulties, addressing relevant issues and making appropriate referrals to university resources.
• Participates in the planning, implementation, and development of innovative programs designed to enhance retention, community and belonging, and academic progress. Represents CICS on relevant college and university-level committees and councils.
• Provides mentorship and support for international students through both individual and group activities to ensure student success and sense of belonging. Advises students on academic and career next steps in compliance with F-1, J-1, and other visa types.
• Collaborates with the Assistant Director of Admissions to facilitate communication with admitted graduate students. Leads information sessions for new and admitted graduate students, both online and in-person. Maintains, updates, and shares information related to Canvas, new student orientation, and mentoring programs.
• Supports recruitment goals and initiatives created by the Assistant Director of Admissions and makes recommendations based on trends among our graduate student population. Assists with recruitment and admissions events including the annual "Candidate Friday" for admitted PhD students.
• Provides support for students interested in, and accepted to, the Accelerated MS program in consultation with the Assistant Director of Graduate Student Advising and Success. Helps maintain programs to prepare students for the transition from undergraduate to graduate programs to foster student success.
• Participates in and promotes evening and weekend advising related activities (e.g., career and advising fairs, industrial affiliates events, student support and community events, etc.).
• Liaises with other units on campus such as the Graduate School, Dean of Students Office, Center for Counseling and Psychological Services, Office of Global Affairs, and Disability Services to promote graduate student success and retention.
• Collaborates with faculty, program directors, staff, and students to develop, update, and maintain our graduate programs.
• Completes special projects as requested to support the college's mission.
• Attends regional advising conferences and other professional development events.

Other Functions

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Strong computer skills including at least intermediate expertise with :

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

Typical office environment.

Work Schedule

Salary Information

Salary Level 26.

PSU Hiring Ranges .

Special Instructions to Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.