Academic Adviser, Center for Continuing Studies in Chester

Widener University is currently seeking an Academic Advisor in the Center for Continuing Studies. Reporting to the Associate Director of Advising & Retention, the Academic Advisor supports the academic advisement and success of Continuing Studies students, including high school, undergraduate, certificate, and graduate learners. This role provides direct advising and student support, assists with recruitment and retention efforts, and collaborates across departments to support student progress and satisfaction.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

• Academic Advising & Student Support
• Provide individualized academic advising aligned with university policies and program requirements.
• Monitor student progress and communicate important academic deadlines, requirements, and policies.
• Serve as a point of contact for student questions and concerns, referring complex issues to appropriate leadership as needed.
• Conduct outreach to support student retention and academic success.
• Assist students with the application, course registration, and enrollment processes.
• Review and provide guidance on transfer credits for undergraduate students in collaboration with appropriate offices.
• Assist with graduation application processes, including reviewing student records and communicating outcomes.
• Recruitment & Enrollment
• Support recruitment efforts by engaging prospective students and providing program information.
• Maintain consistent communication with prospective and current students via phone and email.
• Collaborate with Admissions and University Relations to support a smooth and student-friendly application process.
• Assist in tracking recruitment and enrollment data as needed.
• Marketing & Communications
• Assist with development and distribution of program information and marketing materials.
• Support communication efforts, including preparation of Academic Honors and Dean’s List notifications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

• Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Higher Education, Counseling, or a related field.
• An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.
• One (1+) years of experience working with students in a higher education or related setting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and ability to learn new systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in communication and recordkeeping.
• Preferred:
• Master’s degree in Higher Education, Counseling, or a related field.
• Experience with student information systems.
• Background in continuing education and/or online education.
• Prior experience in academic advising and student data reporting.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

• Standard office setting with frequent interaction via phone, email, and in-person.
• Occasional evening and weekend hours based on student needs.
• Must be able to sit at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within a 50-mile radius.
• Mobility across campus buildings and workstations.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.

Some positions may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement that may include a partially or fully remote work location, consistent with Widener’s Flexible Work policy.

Widener University, an independent, metropolitan, doctoral-intensive university, connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention and experiential learning are key components of the Widener Experience. Located in Chester, PA, Widener's main campus is nestled between Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE, with Law Schools located in both Harrisburg and Wilmington.

For more information about the university, please visit our website at www.widener.edu. EOE M/F/V/D