Program Advisor, Open Learning in Kamloops, British Columbia at Thompson Rivers University

Applications will be reviewed commencing the “closing date for internal CUPE applicants” and may continue until the position is filled.

Internal CUPE applicants must submit their application by 4pm on the “closing date for internal CUPE applicants” for their Seniority to be recognized. Applications received after the "closing date for internal CUPE applicants" will be considered alongside external applicants.

The Program Advisor, Open Learning provides advice to students with respect to education planning, academic goals, and course selection. This position may work with students from pre-admission inquiry through to graduation; it proactively encourages students to complete Open Learning credentials in a timely manner.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Responsible for advising students in assigned program portfolio. Assists with coverage in other portfolios.
2. Responds to student inquiries, develops education plans, and advises on course selection.
3. Researches and makes recommendations on admission requirements, transfer credit assessments, and transfer agreements
4. Works closely with Associate Deans and Program Coordinators to determine program requirements are met.
5. Conducts degree audits for student graduations.
6. Establishes and maintains liaison and referral services with educational institutions, professional and community organizations, and other TRU departments.
7. Maintains a student-centered approach and establishes rapport with students within portfolio.
8. Approves and prepares letters of permission for program students to take non-TRU courses.
9. Evaluates and makes recommendations according to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition, transfer credit and block transfer articulation guidelines.
10. Reviews and enters established transfer credit.
11. Engages in continuous training and professional development related to assigned program portfolio.
12. May represent TRU-OL at career fairs, trade shows, and recruiting events.
13. Provides advice and support to the university’s recruitment, conversion and retention activities and for developing processes for application and registration.
14. May provide training to other staff relating to course and program advising, admissions processes, advising theory/practice and systems management.

REPORTS TO
Associate Director, Student Engagement & Experience (OL)

EDUCATION:

• Undergraduate Degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline

EXPERIENCE:

• Three years related work experience including:
  • Minimum of two years’ experience in post-secondary institution or related educational environment assessing student’s previous education, skills and background
  • One year working in a high call environment
  • One year student advising experience

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE OR ABILITIES RELATED TO THE JOB

• Good organization skills including the ability to set priorities, multi-task and work with minimal supervision and remain focused on objectives
• Ability to interpret admissions and transfer credit policies and guidelines, to recognize exceptions, and to take appropriate action to resolve problems
• Intermediate research and analytical skills
• Ability to investigate and listen in order to solve problems and provide solutions
• Aptitude for exacting and precise work, a high degree of accuracy, thoroughness, and attention to detail
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with a widely diverse student population and coworkers and across functional areas of the institution
• Strong computer skills including student admissions and transfer credit modules and MS Office
• Ability to maintain a student-focused as well as sales-focused approach
• Familiarity with British Columbia post-secondary education
• Comprehensive knowledge of Open and Distance Learning programs and courses, as well as an understanding of traditional campus-based offerings
• Knowledge of customer-tracking applications and tools
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Sitting at desk and computer for long periods of time
• General office conditions
• Travel may be required
  

NOTE: To learn more about Thompson Rivers University or living in Kamloops or Williams Lake please visit our Careers website. External Candidates invited to interview will be required to bring a copy of their transcripts to the interview.