Academic Advisor Salary

Universities and colleges employ academic advisors to help current and incoming students make appropriate decisions regarding their education. The advisor is typically assigned to a specific university department and has a strong knowledge of all requirements for degrees offered in that department. The advisor serves as an information provider, counselor, and facilitator for students.

The advisor helps students design their course schedules, keeps abreast of degree requirement changes or potential changes, and passes any new information on to students. For students seeking post-baccalaureate education, the advisor details academic requirements for graduate school admissions and required aptitude and knowledge testing.

Advisors also serve a crucial role with new enrollees and transfer students. They provide these future students with information on whether transfer or AP credits will be accepted by the university, as well as help these new students design an academic plan.

The educational requirements for an academic advisor usually include at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably one within a field in their assigned department. A university may look to hire an advisor from its teaching ranks or look to qualified recent graduates.

The academic advisor typically works in an educational office environment. He or she must be comfortable with computers, possess strong organizational skills, and be willing to continually update his or her knowledge of degree programs and requirements. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

Academic Advisor Tasks

• Advise students on potential avenues of education based on strengths and interests.
• Assist with student enrollment and registration.
• Issue recommendations to the proper department for enhanced student success.
• Sustain contact with students throughout their education journey and guide them towards graduation.
• Provide mentoring and success strategy counseling services to students.