Director of Graduate Studies

REPORTS TO: the Vice President for Enrollment

STATUS: FULL-TIME, EXEMPT, SALARIED

The Director of Graduate Studies is a strategic and student-centered leader responsible for the development, growth, and management of graduate programs at the institution. This role oversees graduate recruitment, admissions strategy, and program support while working collaboratively with academic leadership to enhance program quality and enrollment outcomes. The Director reports directly to the Vice President for Enrollment and plays a key role in advancing the institution’s mission through graduate education.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops and executes a comprehensive graduate recruitment plan to meet enrollment goals.

• Identifies and cultivates prospective student pipelines through partnerships, outreach, and marketing initiatives.

• Represents the institution at graduate fairs, professional events, and recruitment activities, including regional travel.

• Analyzes enrollment data and trends to inform recruitment strategies and improve yield.

• Oversees the graduate admissions process, ensuring a seamless and student-focused experience.

• Communicates effectively with prospective students, applicants, and admitted students throughout the enrollment funnel.

• Provides market insights and competitive analysis to inform new program opportunities and revisions to existing offerings.

• Works closely with the Vice President for Enrollment to align graduate enrollment goals with institutional priorities.

• Collaborates with marketing, faculty, and student services to promote graduate programs and ensure student success.

• Meets with prospective students during on-campus visits to deliver a high-quality visit experience and provide guidance on graduate program offerings, tuition, and costs.

• Other duties as assigned by the Vice President for Enrollment

Special Requirements

This position requires travel, including evenings and weekends, to attend recruitment events and represent the college.  The Director must demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to work outside of regular business hours to meet enrollment goals and support prospective students. Occasionally, there are on-campus evening and weekend responsibilities that are expected of this position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in higher education, with a focus on admissions, enrollment management, or graduate programs.

• Demonstrated success in recruitment strategy development and execution.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

• Ability to analyze data and make strategic, informed decisions.

• Experience working collaboratively with faculty and cross-functional teams.

• Strategic thinker with a results-driven mindset.

• Strong organizational and project management skills.

•  Commitment to student success and the mission of a small private institution.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment that requires adaptability and initiative.

• Growth and “doer” mindset and institutional teamwork ethic. 

• Creative, strategic, thoughtful, and has a sense of humor.