What is a University Administrator and What Do They Do?
University administrators are in charge of the academic and non-academic aspects of their institutions. University Administrators oversee, develop, and coordinate with many departments within higher education institutions. There are many different types of university administrators and they are in charge of a wide range of services such as student financial aid and student activities. As a university Administrator, having the want to learn will be beneficial throughout the career, and being someone who is open-minded and is always open to changes is also beneficial, as education itself is flexible and non-linear. Having a master’s degree is increasing in value in Canada. If one was to pursue a career in higher education, having a master’s degree is almost a necessity to excel in this career. University Administrators balance many different roles and responsibilities within the institution and play a key part in academics and day to day operations at the University. The exact career path of administrators depends on which type of administrator they want to be such as a director of student advising or executive director of ancillary services.
What skills should I possess to be a university administrator?
- Have knowledge of university structure, such as institutional policy
- No formal education is required; but experience is needed
- Interpersonal skills
- Emotional-intelligence
- Can understand equity and inclusion.
- Be willing to learn and demonstrate a desire to learn and grow and change.
- Be open-minded (Have a starting point in order to communicate and work well with others)
- Patience & adaptability
- The ability to work in teams and with others
- Communication skills
What are some job opportunities as a university administrator?
- Director/ Executive Director of specific departments
- Director/ Executive Director of Student Services
- Registrar Services
- Recruitment officer
- Undergraduate Course Administrator
- Team Lead/Administrator, Student Support and Advising
- Assistant Director, student services
- Faculty HR Coordinator
- Director of Student Advising
- Senior Manager of Education
- Executive Director of Vice Provost Students