Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Academic Support Program for Student-Athletes (ASPSA) serves and supports the academic needs of UNC student-athletes throughout their collegiate experience as they pursue their educational goals and prepare for the next stage of their lives. The ASPSA reports directly to the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost and is uniquely positioned to collaborate with faculty, the Department of Athletics, and the campus community to support student-athletes as they excel in the classroom and compete in athletics. In addition to the Director/Assistant Provost, the ASPSA staff includes academic counselors, learning specialists, and tutors. The ASPSA provides numerous academic services including tutoring, secondary academic and career advising, assistance with University and NCAA eligibility, and coordination of academic honors and awards. ASPSA staff members work together to guide and support student-athletes throughout their career at Carolina, beginning with an introduction to academics at UNC during the recruiting process through graduation and beyond. Academic counselors assist student-athletes with academic coaching in areas including time management and academic learning strategies; they reinforce information provided by campus academic advisors and educate students on NCAA and institutional eligibility requirements; and in conjunction with campus partners, guide students on course and major selection and career planning. Academic Counselors meet with students on a regular basis to monitor academic progress, review reports from faculty and tutors on students’ academic progress, class attendance and grades. Additionally, they provide detailed, weekly reports to coaches, conduct and attend team meetings, compile semester grade/eligibility reports and assist with the preparation of each team’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) and Graduation Success rate (GSR). All incoming student-athletes, as well as those in need of additional academic support, participate in the My Academic Plan (MAP) program. Academic counselors and learning specialists work with each student-athlete to customize his or her MAP based on academic preparedness, course schedule, and individual need. Learning specialists provide services including helping students explore and adopt new learning strategies and utilize assistive technology, focus on academic skill development, provide support to students who suspect or have a documented learning disability or medical condition, and liaise with UNC’s Accessibility Resource and Services. Approximately ninety tutors conduct sessions that are available for all students in either individual, small or large group, and drop-in sessions. The ASPSA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the University’s Carolina Next initiatives to strengthen student success and build our community together. Maintaining the highest standard of integrity and complying with all NCAA, ACC, and University policies and procedures is imperative. ASPSA is dedicated to providing an inclusive learning environment and comprehensive academic support for Carolina’s Tar Heel student-athletes.
Position Summary
Academic Counselors provide academic support to student-athletes and assist with academic coaching in areas including study skills, time management, organizational skills, and methods for choosing balanced schedules, factoring in the demands of classes, practicing, competing, and eligibility standards. Academic Counselors meet with students on a regular basis to monitor academic progress, review reports from faculty and tutors on students’ academic progress, class attendance and grades. They also reinforce information provided by official academic advisors and educate students on NCAA and institutional eligibility requirements. Additionally, they provide detailed, weekly reports to coaches, conduct and attend team meetings, compile semester grade/eligibility reports and assist with the preparation of each team’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR). Academic Counselors must maintain the highest standard of integrity and follow and comply with all NCAA, ACC, and University policies and procedures.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent educational or instructional activities related to the delivery of student advising and counseling or student personnel services, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Knowledge of best practices in undergraduate student retention and familiarity with issues related to student-athletes’ academic progress and transition issues.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Nightly and weekend work required, all year round.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
A Master’s degree and experience working with student-athletes in an academic support program, in an educational setting, or with undergraduates in a 4-year college or university setting.
Experience working with diverse student populations and at-risk students.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.
