College Admissions Counselor Job Description

College admissions counselors are responsible for recruiting and screening potential students.

College admissions counselors are responsible for recruiting and screening potential students. Admissions counselors must also guide prospects through the admissions process, review applications and conduct student interviews. Other duties of admissions counselors might also include planning and conducting campus tours, holding student orientations and maintaining admissions records and files.

In most instances, a bachelor's degree is required for this position. Experience in sales, public speaking and event planning might also be beneficial.

Recruiting & Screening Applications

The core responsibility of any college admissions counselor is to recruit new students for the school. Admissions counselors use a variety of techniques to attract students and gain exposure for the university. Some common strategies include participation in college fairs, relationship building with high school and community college guidance counselors, and online marketing.

The admissions team is also responsible for screening student applications. In evaluating an application, admissions counselors may assess students based upon a number of benchmarks such as grades/transcripts, essays and interviews. Admissions counselors also work with students to ensure they comply with application deadlines, policies and procedures.

Representing the College

Throughout the year, the admissions counselor attends and speaks at numerous community and alumni events. In addition to attending special events, admissions counselors often plan campus tours, student orientations and open houses.

Counseling Duties

Counseling students is also a vital part of an admissions counselors duties. Most often this involves working with other college personnel and staff to provide students with needed resources and information.

Job Qualifications and Skills Needed

Because admissions counselors are representatives of higher education, they must have obtained a minimum of a bachelor's degree. In addition to educational credentials, a prospective employer might also look for skills and experience in areas such as customer service, sales, counseling, event planning and public speaking. Admissions counselors must also be computer efficient, able to work weekends and travel.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to a recent report for 2009-2010 academic year issued by HigherEdJobs.com, the median annual salary for this job is around $35,000. The Higher Education Employment Report projects a stable outlook for this profession and others in the field of higher education.

References

• National Association of College Admissions Counselors:Sample Job Description:Admissions Counselor
• Higher Ed Jobs: Mid-Level Median Salaries
• Higher Ed Jobs: Higher Education Employment Report