Academic Specialist

Description:

The Academic Specialist is an experienced professional who applies theory and puts it into practice with in-depth understanding of the professional field; independently performs the full range of responsibilities within the function; possesses broad job knowledge; analyzes problems/issues of diverse scope and determines solutions. Applies knowledge and skills as a seasoned, experienced academic professional. Provides advice and recommends solutions which may apply to unique (not-clearly-defined) programs and issues without prior precedent. Reporting to the Academics Managing Supervisor, the Academic Specialist serves as the primary interface for academic matters within an assigned portfolio and is responsible for the accurate distribution of academic program information between the Systemwide Office of the University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) and (a) UCEAP Study Center staff worldwide; (b) UC Campus Study Abroad Offices; (c) UC students participating in UCEAP; and (d) the UC campus registrars' offices. Communications with students primarily take place remotely (online and phone) rather than in person. Performs complex research, review, and analysis of host institution academic opportunities appropriate to UC undergraduate and/or graduate students and of UC, UCEAP, and host institution academic policies and procedures; and disseminates advising and recruitment information to indicated UC campus offices and academic departments. Manages the process by which credit earned abroad is applied to a student's UC record; advises Study Centers, Campus Study Abroad Offices, registrar offices, and students about UC and UCEAP policies pertaining to students' academic work and records in programs worldwide; and works to ensure that automation of these processes is as advanced and efficient as possible. Responsible for all academic information pertaining to a specified portfolio group within the approximate 6,000 student UCEAP participants each year, in over 40 countries worldwide. Works closely with the Associate Dean in implementing and archiving academic policies and procedures. Promotes UCEAP programs at occasional student fairs and campus events. Assembles and maintains program information, manages student registration information, and generates reports in a complex in-house database. Collaborates with IT and Marketing units on academic web and database issues and requests.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related area or equivalent experience and/or training.
• 4+ years' experience in Student Affairs, including experience in student advising on academic matters, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. Skill in obtaining and conveying information clearly and with accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to listen, learn, and build trust among faculty, staff, and students. Interpersonal skills, multicultural competencies, and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Ability to work collaboratively and coordinate within a diverse, complex organization.
• Excellent research skills and demonstrated history of critical analysis.
• Advanced ability to identify, reason through, and develop original ideas to resolve problems and interpret and apply policy.
• Thorough knowledge of higher education policies, procedures, and requirements.
• Resourcefulness and creativity in drafting/recommending new policies and procedures to meet both University and UCEAP needs.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize assignments to complete work in a timely manner. Skill in setting priorities that reflect the importance of job responsibilities adjusting them as circumstances change.
• Ability to apply and/or adapt current procedures to an increasingly automated environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including MS Teams and SharePoint or equivalent.
• Previous experience with enrollment management systems, productivity, and database management software.