Graduation Advising Specialist en Shaw University

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Director of the Academic Support Center, the Graduation Advising
Specialist is responsible for supporting undergraduate students in achieving timely degree completion. The
Graduation Advising Specialist provides specialized academic advising for upper-level students who have earned
60+ credits approaching graduation, ensuring that degree requirements are met and that students are prepared for
post-graduate opportunities. This role plays a key part in increasing persistence, retention, and graduation rates.
This role requires a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments and supporting the academic growth of
a diverse student population

Essential Job Functions:
• Advise upper-level students on degree completion requirements, course sequencing, and graduation
  application processes.
• Conduct graduation audits and collaborate with the Registrar’s Office to ensure accuracy in academic
  records.
• Develop individualized completion plans for students who are close to graduation but behind in credits or
  requirements.
• Monitor progress of graduating students and conduct proactive outreach to address barriers to timely degree
  completion.
• Provide guidance on graduate school, professional programs, and career pathways in collaboration with
  Career Services.
• Assist students in understanding university policies related to academic standing, graduation eligibility, and
  appeals.
• Serve as a resource for faculty and staff on graduation requirements and advising policies.
• Track and report on persistence and graduation outcomes; contribute to assessment and continuous
  improvement of advising practices.
• Support campus-wide initiatives that enhance student retention and degree completion.
  Other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Student workers.

Job Qualifications
Required Education and/or Experience
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in higher education, counseling, student affairs, or a related field
  preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in academic advising, student success, or graduation-focused services
  in higher education.
• Strong knowledge of degree audit systems, academic policies, and curriculum requirements.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations, including first-generation and underrepresented
  students.
• Familiarity with student information systems and academic advising technologies preferred.

Certificates, Licenses, or Registrations
• None

Other Competencies (skills, abilities, behavior)
• Must have a philosophy that is consistent with the Mission, Vision and Core Values of the organization.
Vision, commitment, and experience in achieving goals and pursuing excellence are critical. Strong oral and
written presentation skills. Ability to work well independently and as a member of a team. Excellence in the
organization, decision-making, problem-solving, and creating a collaborative environment. Ability to manage
multiple projects simultaneously. Must be able to read, write and speak fluently in English.

Physical Demands
• Ability to sit or stand for up to 8 hours/day. Some lifting (up to 25 pounds occasionally), bending, and
carrying. Specific vision abilities include the ability to use close vision. The employee is regularly required to
talk and hear, and to use hands and fingers to handle or feel.