Student Advisor, DNP

Description

Job Description

Summary: The Student Advisor offers comprehensive academic guidance and support to foster academic achievement, professional growth, and overall program success. This position serves as a primary resource for students, assisting with course planning, progression, and career direction while fostering engagement and retention through proactive, relationship-centered advising. Working collaboratively with the Program Chair, Directors, faculty, and administrative staff, the advisor identifies and supports students at risk, ensures adherence to academic policies, and coordinates targeted strategies to enhance student outcomes. This position also involves participating in student-centered events such as orientation and graduation, maintaining accurate and confidential program-related records, and contributing to institutional reporting, compliance, and retention initiatives. Through data-informed practice and effective communication, the Student Advisor advances a culture of student success and continuous improvement within the program.

Duties and Responsibilities

Major Areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to: Academic Advising & Student Support (70%) Provide comprehensive, individualized academic advising, assisting students with degree planning and course selection. Monitor academic performance, proactively identifying students at risk and initiating timely interventions. Collaborate closely with the Program Chair to address academic concerns, track student progress, and develop strategies for student success. Offer career guidance to students, supporting their professional aspirations and facilitating informed decision-making. Actively participate in new student orientations, graduation events, and other student-centered activities to foster community engagement. Maintain accurate, confidential advising records, ensuring compliance with FERPA regulations. Student Retention and Engagement (20%) Develop and implement initiatives aimed at enhancing student retention and academic achievement. Collaborate with faculty, staff, and administration to support a coordinated approach to student success and satisfaction. Communicate program updates, university policies, important deadlines, and changes clearly and effectively to students. Administrative and Reporting Responsibilities (10%) Utilize and maintain familiarity with education management, compliance tracking, and academic reporting systems (e.g., Argos, Campus Nexus, Workday, Exxat, Castle Branch). Prepare reports related to advising activities, student progression, and retention metrics as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or 90 credits and actively pursuing a degree in healthcare or business administration, or related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in student advising or student support services, preferably within health professions education.

Skills

Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in culturally responsive advising practices, with demonstrated commitment to serving diverse student populations. Ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

Knowledge

• Familiarity with academic advising best practices, student retention strategies, and degree audit systems. Comprehensive understanding of FERPA, Title IX, and ADA compliance regulations. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends for student events and orientations. Strong proficiency with institutional educational technology and compliance systems. Ability to receive detailed information through verbal and written communication. Ability to read and write clear documents. Hand and finger dexterity for computer, text, calculator, copy machine, and telephone use. Must be able to express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken word in person or on the telephone.
• Work
• Environment:
• Office
• Location: Oakland Campus – Onsite This is an onsite position based in Oakland, CA], requiring regular in-office presence to support daily operations, collaboration, and student or team engagement. Work is performed primarily on campus in a dynamic academic environment, with direct interaction across multidisciplinary teams.
• Employee
• Status:
• Regular
• Exemption
• Status:
• United
• States of
• America (Non-Exempt)
• Time
• Type:
• Full time
• Job
• Shift:
• Pay
• Range: up to $30.00/hour (non exempt) based on experience Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills. SMU is a health sciences institution offering high-quality instruction, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. We have a deep commitment and proven track record of preparing professionals to address today’s healthcare needs. Our Mission We educate students to become highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals who positively transform the experience of care in diverse communities. Our Vision Samuel Merritt University will become nationally recognized as a premier, multi-specialty health sciences institution. Expert faculty and staff will shape an inclusive learning environment where all students experience best teaching practices and state-of-the-art learning approaches. The University will select and support students who will flourish in the rigorous academic programs, learn to practice expertly, and pass licensure or certifications examinations on their first attempt. Our Philosophy of Teaching and Learning We see faculty and students as partners in the teaching and learning process. Our programs, curricula, and courses are designed to encourage active, experiential learning as well as collegial, scholarly, and effective communications. We believe that clinical and practical applications, including interprofessional education, provide a critical foundation for learning in the health professions. SMU graduates use sound reasoning, evidence-based care, and clinical expertise to respond to the needs of the people they serve. Community and Diversity We're more than a top health professions university. SMU is committed to training students in the importance of social determinants of health and how to care for patients from diverse backgrounds with integrity and compassion. Our Values If you're interested in transforming the care experience in diverse communities, SMU could be the place for you. SMU students learn to advance health equity and make a lasting impact on individuals' health and community well-being. At the core of our educational values are hands-on, experiential learning; the promotion of diversity and inclusion; and community-service outreach, locally and globally.
• We embrace: A learning environment where we challenge ourselves and our students to think critically, seek mastery, and act compassionately A collegial environment where we are fair, respectful, and behave with integrity A collaborative environment where we partner with one another and with others in the community An innovative environment where we take reasoned risks and move nimbly A results-oriented environment where we provide and expect exceptional performance and service The Employee Polygraph Protection Act prohibits most private employers from using lie detector tests either for pre-employment screening or during the course of employment.
• Details can be found on our website at: https://www.samuelmerritt.edu/employee-polygraph-protection-act