MSW Program Advisor

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How to Apply

Application Instructions

Candidates should submit the following as one document:

1. Cover Letter / Letter of interest

2. Resume

3. One page statement that discusses/shares a recent experience; what was learned from this experience, and what you did with what you learned.

In order for the Career Portal system to accept a cover letter and one page statement, please include these as a page of your resume document.

Candidates must be currently eligible to work in the United States, as we are currently unable to sponsor visas for this job opening.

Job Summary

The University of Michigan School of Social Work (SSW) is transitioning to a dedicated professional advising model to enhance the student experience and provide consistent, high-touch support. We are seeking a student-centered MSW Program Advisor to join our MSW Program Office. This person will report to the Assistant Director for Curriculum and Advising.

In this role, you will serve as a primary point of contact for both online and on-campus graduate students, guiding them from matriculation through graduation. You will move beyond transactional registration assistance to provide holistic support, addressing academic, professional, and personal development. As the MSW program moves away from a faculty-advisor model, these professional advisors will play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of our curriculum while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for a diverse student body.

Responsibilities*

Academic Advising & Degree Planning

• Conduct individual advising sessions to assist students in developing and managing comprehensive degree plans.
• Monitor student progress toward degree completion, ensuring all University and School requirements are met.
• Interpret and explain academic policies, procedures, and graduation requirements.
• Assist students with course selection, registration processes, and navigating the University's student information systems.
• Advise students on selecting and changing pathway specializations or certificate programs.
• Maintain expert-level knowledge of the MSW curriculum, including evolving requirements and elective options.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of advising materials and student handbooks.
• Empower students to identify and attain personal, academic, and career goals.
• Act as a student navigator within the School, helping navigate complex institutional barriers.

Student Support & Mentoring

• Provide resources to students navigating academic, social, or emotional challenges that may impact their success.
• Support students on academic probation by developing success plans and identifying necessary resources.
• Mentor students on professional identity development and conduct within the SSW and field of social work.
• Connect students to faculty with shared interests.
• Collaborate with the Office of Field Education (OFE) on interventions for students experiencing challenges that cross between field and coursework to ensure a cohesive support strategy.
• Facilitate referrals to campus partners, such as the Office of Student Services (OSS), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD), and financial aid.

Administrative & Programmatic Support

• Maintain accurate and confidential student advising notes.
• Participate in program recruitment, marketing efforts, and admissions events as needed.
• Collaborate with the Program Director and other stakeholders on data collection related to student retention and satisfaction.
• Assist in the planning and execution of student orientations and professional development workshops.

Required Qualifications*

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in higher education, student affairs, or academic advising.
• Strong understanding of and commitment to the values and ethics within the social work profession.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with a diverse student population.
• Proven ability to successfully work in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a caseload of students effectively.
• Master's Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Higher Education, or closely related area with a preference for Social Work.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

These positions are based in the MSW Program Office. Advisors are expected to work collaboratively in a team environment to ensure consistent coverage and support for the student body. This is a primarily in person position, with the ability to work one to two days per week remotely.

Union Affiliation

This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the University Staff United (USU), which represents bargaining unit members in all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.