What are the responsibilities and job description for the Academic Advisor position at American Baptist Theological Seminary dba American...?
About the Opportunity
The mission of American Baptist College (ABC), a historically Black College with a liberal arts emphasis, is to educate, graduate, and prepare diverse students for Christian leadership, service, and social justice.
Teaching Philosophy of ABC
The teaching philosophy at American Baptist College aims to help students develop a rigorous spirit of curiosity that connects theory to praxis, promotes community and inclusion, and cultivates habits of life- long learning through continuous self-reflection and self-evaluation. To accomplish these aims we will teach our students to grow ethically and spiritually by expanding their vision to include the principles of social justice, equity, advocacy, and leadership (SEAL) to build their analytical and interpretative skills in both faith communities and the broader society.
Job Description
The Academic Advisor, reporting to the Academic Dean, provides comprehensive academic guidance to students, supporting their educational success. This role involves assisting students in academic planning, navigating institutional policies, and connecting them with resources to foster academic success and retention. The advisor collaborates with faculty and staff to ensure a cohesive student experience.
Duties and Responsibilities
Academic Guidance & Planning
- Advise students on major selection, degree requirements, and academic policies.
- Develop personalized academic plans aligned with students’ goals and institutional pathways.
- Monitor academic progress, identify at-risk students, and implement interventions.
Registration & Course Support
- Assist with course selection, registration, and scheduling to ensure timely degree completion.
- Clarify prerequisites, transfer credits, and graduation audits.
Resource Referrals
- Connect academic goals to career opportunities and refer students to career services.
- Identify and refer students to support resources (tutoring, counseling, financial aid).
Administrative, Collaborative, and Advocacy Duties
- Maintain accurate student records, student interactions, and progress using advising software (e.g., CAMS degree audits or DegreeWorks).
- Stay updated on curriculum changes, policies, and best practices in academic advising.
- Participate in orientations, workshops, and outreach events.
- Collaborate with faculty to address curriculum concerns and student needs.
- Advocate for student needs and provide feedback to improve institutional policies and processes to ensure students receive comprehensive support.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written skills to build rapport with a diverse student population as well as active listening and empathy.
- Knowledge of academic programs and policies, degree requirements, and advising best practices.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Critical thinking for problem-solving to address academic challenges and policy navigation.
- Sensitivity to diverse student backgrounds and needs as well as the ability to handle sensitive situations with confidentiality and professionalism.
- Experience with student databases, MS Office, and virtual platforms.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, or related discipline
- 3 years of experience in higher education academic advising.
- Knowledge of FERPA, student development theories, and retention strategies.
- Experience working with underrepresented, first-generation, or international students.
- Familiarity with degree audit systems.
This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' academic and personal journeys, helping them thrive in college and beyond. The ideal candidate will be passionate about student success, demonstrate a strong understanding of academic programs, and possess the ability to build positive relationships with students, faculty, and staff.
