Graduation Degree Management Specialist (Project Management)

The Graduate College of the University of Oklahoma is excited to announce our search for a Graduate Degree Management Specialist. We are seeking a dynamic individual to work with an assigned group of academic units and graduate students on the OU Norman and OU Extended Campuses. 

This is not a traditional academic advising or counseling role, as course advisement at the graduate level is handled by a student's academic unit. The selected candidate for this position should be self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively. They will respond to student, faculty, and staff academic inquiries, maintain student records, conduct degree audits for graduate certificates, master's degrees, and doctoral degree programs. In addition to these routine duties, the selected candidate will be provided a number of opportunities to work on special projects, including but not limited to presentations, policy review, creation and implementation, as well as drafting related communication plans. 

The Graduate College is a supportive workplace with an outstanding professional staff, and we are looking for a dynamic and committed professional to join our team.

Essential Duties:

• Monitors student progress towards degree completion. Communicates information regarding academic programs, policies, and procedures based on students' individual needs. Assists students in realizing their educational, professional, and personal goals by offering specialized guidance. Operates within an extensive campus network of institutional resources designed to help students maximize their college experience.
• Participates in the comprehensive onboarding and Graduate College Degree Management Specialist Training.
• Conducts individual academic advising appointments for a designated caseload as necessary.
• Assesses the holistic needs of students, provides support, and refers to appropriate campus partners.
• Responds to communications via phone and email in a timely manner. 
• Manages administrative tasks associate with preparing and completing academic advising sessions. Evaluates, updates, and securely maintains student and advising records. 
• Processes academic forms such as Veteran Student forms, and petitions.
• Conducts retention and follows college specific protocol to proactively address academic challenges.
• Conducts graduation checks and degree and minor clearances.
• Participates in institutional retention and completion initiatives.
• Engages with the Academic Advising Community through monthly meetings and professional development opportunities as appropriate.
• Serves as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) by fulfilling training and reporting obligations related to campus safety protocols.
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

**Selected applicant may be eligible for a hybrid/remote work arrangement after 6 months of employment.**

Required Education: Bachelor's Degree

Skills:

• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office to include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ability to navigate and maintain databases.
• Skilled in communicating well and building rapport quickly with students, faculty, and staff.
• Detail oriented for accuracy of data and information.
• Highly organized and ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Demonstrates ability to learn, interpret, and articulate complex policies and procedures.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of state, university, college, and major policies and procedures.
• Willingness to work independently, collaboratively, and under supervision.
• Committed to maintaining confidentiality and securing sensitive information.

Certifications:

•  None
  

Working Conditions:

• Sitting for long periods of time.  
• Communicate effectively.  
• Ability to engage in repetitive motion. 
• Standard office environment.  
• Frequent exposure to pressure caused by deadlines and busy periods.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.
• Requires contact with other departments and university officials.

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.