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Associate Director of Exploratory Studies
Associate Director of Exploratory StudiesInsideHigherEd • Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
Associate Director of Exploratory Studies

Associate Director of Exploratory Studies

InsideHigherEd • Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
18 hours ago
Job type
  • Full-time
  • Part-time
Job description

Posting Number : PG194305EP

Internal Recruitment :

No

Working Title :

Associate Director of Exploratory Studies

Anticipated Hiring Range :

$75,000 - $80,000 (commensurate with experience)

Work Schedule :

Monday - Friday, 8 : 00am - 5 : 00pm (some nights and weekends)

Job Location : Raleigh, NC

Department :

University Advising and Exploratory Studies

About the Department :

The Division of Academic & Student Affairs (DASA) is where students discover connections and community. It is where students live, where they gather, where they improve themselves, each other, and their university. DASA is where students seek guidance and support, both in and outside of the classroom. The division serves all students at NC State through three integrated components : academic affairs, student affairs, and University College.

NC State wants employees to achieve their highest potential at work, learn more about our employee value proposition here ( You Belong Here ). The Division of Academic and Student Affairs is the place to work for values-driven faculty and staff who are passionate about promoting the success of the whole student.

University Advising and Exploratory Studies in the University College serves the University by providing quality, timely advising services and support to students in transition, and to advisors and faculty across campus. Students are served through in- person virtual advising, drop-in advising, workshops and other programming, course offerings, and online resources. Through comprehensive work with students, staff, and faculty, University Advising and Exploratory Studies facilitates student academic success, major selection, career development, and personal enrichment.

The Exploratory Studies program gives first time freshmen the opportunity to choose a major after a guided, structured process for major and career exploration and transition to the University. This is accomplished through one-on one academic advising, the Exploratory Studies first year curriculum, experiential learning, and programming in the Exploratory Studies Village, emphasizing theoretical and practical methods of inquiry, guided reflection, engagement, assessment, and analysis. Through this process students gain the foundation for acquiring the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to make an informed decision on a major and become self-reliant and productive citizens.

Re-deciding students at the University have the opportunity to visit the unit’s drop-in advising or participate in the Inter-College Transfer (ICT) advising major selection, career development, and personal enrichment program. University Advising and Exploratory Studies supports these students in the major and career decision process and provides ICT students an advising home until the student is able to successfully matriculate to a major. University Advising and Exploratory Studies also coordinates special outreach for transfer students, international students.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits :

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer :

  • Medical , Dental , and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership , and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer : Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties :

The Associate Director of Exploratory Studies plays a vital leadership role in providing comprehensive academic advising, instruction, and assessment for students exploring various academic paths at NC State. In addition to guiding students, this position is responsible for supervising and mentoring a team of at least 10 professional cross-curricular academic advisors and ensuring continuous professional development for the advising team.

The Associate Director will also implement effective student support initiatives aligned with guiding student retention and matriculation towards academic pathways. Indirect reporting with committee and team leads as required to ensure business continuity. The position reports to the Director of University Advising and Exploratory Studies to support optimization of program efficiencies and programming initiatives as defined by DASA and the University College executive leadership team.

Duties included but are not limited to :

Administrative Operations and Supervision : 30%

  • Provide oversight of the daily operations and programs of the Exploratory Studies advising team
  • Supervise and meet regularly with a team of professional cross-curricular academic advisors to identify and resolve obstacles and barriers to program success
  • Cultivates and maintains a positive and supportive team environment
  • Manage and review advising caseloads regularly based on change of degree application cycles
  • Maintains accurate knowledge of relevant processes, policies, and procedures
  • Maintains quality control of program processes and program integrity
  • Schedules monthly meetings with direct reports
  • Schedules and completes direct reports, including annual EHRA employee evaluation
  • Reviews, approves and processes leave request of Exploratory Studies advising team
  • Develop instructional rosters- schedules of advising staff and review peer evaluation of teaching in conjunction with the Director for system approval.
  • Coordinates with the Advising Training Development team to develop and facilitate advisor training on Exploratory Studies program, assessment, policies and procedures, responsibilities and expectations.
  • Assist with the departments New Student Orientation processes in coordination with identified leads.
  • Publicize program engagement and manage delegation of staff involvement at campus events (Exploration Programs, Campus Presentations, New Student Orientation, Visitation Days, etc.)

    • Program Outreach and Services : 30%

  • Represents Exploratory Studies on University committees, at regional or national events and conferences
  • Assists in developing new and enhancing existing partnerships to support the holistic needs of Exploratory Studies Students.
  • In coordination with the Director, develop and foster strong relationships with faculty, staff, and university departments to facilitate the successful navigation of Exploratory Studies Students academic journey.
  • Communicate regularly with students, families, faculty, and staff to provide updates on academic policies, advising procedures, and program developments.
  • Supports program recruitment initiatives to include University, College and department initiatives, i.e. Major Fairs, University Open House, New Student Orientation, Admitted Student programs and other recruitment events.
  • Collaborates with Director and of Advising Outreach team, departmental leadership and committee chairs to collect and analyze data to assess the effectiveness of advising strategies, teaching methods, and student outcomes, using results to inform continuous improvement
  • Apply advising technology applications to identify, document, and report retention and matriculation progress towards change of degree application and advising engagement
  • Audit student progress and provide continuous updates and monthly reports on student learning outcomes, academic success, and advisor / instructor effectiveness
  • Serves as a liaison to one or more colleges / offices and support internal departmental committees
  • Leads proactive outreach initiatives to drive achievement of student outcomes and implement success strategies
  • Provides optimum customer care while engaging with students, parents, families, University Partners and stakeholders

    • Advising : 20%

  • Advising assignment framework is based on students enrolled in University Studies Courses
  • Provide multiple individualized advising sessions to undergraduate students admitted into Exploratory Studies on potential academic paths
  • Assist students in developing educational plans to align with their goals, interests, skills and abilities
  • Aid students with the course selection process, clarifying academic goals, and making informed decisions about their future majors and careers
  • Provide ongoing support to help students navigate college transitions and obstacles through campus resources
  • Processes student schedule revision and term withdrawal requests

    • Instructional : 20%

  • Teach sections of the Exploratory Studies orientation course(s) each fall and spring, and / or other departmental offerings as assigned. The orientation course(s) (Introduction to Education, I, II and Exploring Majors, Careers and Identities) focus on acclimation to college, self assessment to support decision, major exploration, academic success, major and career exploration
  • Follow established Exploratory Studies curriculum and teaching guidelines and maintain a course website and grade book through NC State’s course management system
  • Exploratory Studies course sections for first-year students may be linked with a First Year Inquiry course and / or require collaborative work with a Resident Mentor or co-instructor
  • Serves as the official advisor to assigned students in section(s) assigned
  • Supports Spring Connect and Summer Start leads with onboarding and student assignment
  • Refine curricula in coordination with the Director and identified leads under the guidance of University policies
  • Provide instructional coverage in the absence of a team (s) member

    • Other Responsibilities :

  • Occasional weekend and evening work is required to meet departmental goals and objectives. Additional duties as assigned are required but not limited to :

    • Personal and Staff Development : Actively participates in University College, and departmental team professional development and training opportunities to remain informed of emerging trends in higher education, academic advising, and student success initiatives. Participate in relevant conferences, workshops, and training sessions to enhance personal and team development. Proactively encourage and support members of the advising team to engage in professional development opportunities to support best practices, new initiatives, and continuous improvement.

    Minimum Education and Experience :

  • Master’s degree and 5 years of advising experience
  • Program development and leadership experience
  • Supervisory experience

    • Other Required Qualifications :

  • Assessment experience
  • Demonstrated commitment to student service and advising
  • Experience advising first-year students, particularly exploratory / undecided students
  • Experience in advising and programming for unique populations
  • Career advising (e.g., use of career assessments, working with exploratory students)
  • Teaching experience at the college level, particularly with first-year students
  • Familiarity of assessment outcomes to inform decisions
  • Familiarity with Gallup StrengthsFinder
  • Experience in using advising and teaching technology e.g. Degree Audits, Google Workspace, Moodle, Navigate, PeopleSoft, Slate, or similar LMS, SIS platforms

    • Preferred Qualifications :

  • Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, or related field
  • Extensive experience in academic advising, student development, and teaching
  • Proven experience supervising, mentoring, and leading a team of academic advisors or professional staff
  • Strong background in program management, curriculum development, and student assessment
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, leadership, and organizational skills
  • In-depth knowledge of academic policies, advising practices, and student success strategies within education setting
  • Ability to work collaboratively with students, faculty, and staff

    • Required License(s) or Certification(s) :

  • N / A

    • Valid NC Driver's License required :

    No

    Commercial Driver's License required :

    No

    Job Open Date : 10 / 22 / 2025

    Anticipated Close Date :

    Open Until Filled

    Special Instructions to Applicants :

    In addition to your application, please attach a copy of your resume, cover letter and contact information for three references.

    Position Number : 00107299

    Position Type : EPS / SAAO

    Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours / week) :

    1.00

    Appointment : 12 Month Recurring

    Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather :

    Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

    Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events :

    Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

    Department ID :

    248201 - Advising and Exploratory Studies

    EEO :

    NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

    If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu .

    Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

    NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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