College administrators oversee day-to-day campus functions, budget matters, admissions, and curriculum. They require at least a bachelor’s degree and may specialize in areas such as finance or student affairs. Successful administrators need to have good communication skills and flexibility. They may also serve on the Board of Trustees.
While the exact responsibilities of a college administrator, also known as an education administrator, vary between institutions, most administrators are responsible for day-to-day campus functions. College administrators generally oversee budget matters that can range from financial aid issues to employee compensation. They are usually involved in the admissions process and may make specific admissions decisions. Sometimes the administrator can help direct the curriculum and oversee the tracking of campus records.
In terms of education requirements, university administrators or college administrators generally must have at least a bachelor’s degree. Many schools, however, require their administrators to have a degree in a related field, such as finance, counseling, education, or business. Often, the administrator’s specialty determines his job responsibilities.
College administrators, with backgrounds in finance or business, for example, may specialize in financial matters such as financial aid. A financial aid administrator would likely be responsible for keeping track of funds that are disbursed to students in the form of loans, scholarships or grants. He or she may also be responsible for ensuring that the university’s budget is balanced, providing suggestions for improvements in the institution’s finances.
Another common role that a college administrator fills is that of director of student affairs. As director of student affairs, the administrator may be in charge of student housing, career counseling for students, student government, or coordination of school-sponsored student activities.
Depending on the size of the college or university, there may also be a college administrator who focuses on public relations. Another might focus on overseeing alumni contributions, and another might manage school development. Administrators generally work during the year and generally work longer hours at the beginning of each semester and before the beginning of the fiscal year.
In addition to basic education requirements, successful college administrators often need to have a variety of skills. While some college administrators may focus on behind-the-scenes work, most administrators interact with students on a daily basis. The ability to work well with students and faculty is an essential requirement. Furthermore, the ecosystem of universities and colleges often changes as the institution grows or legislation is passed. As a result, flexibility is another essential trait that a successful manager must possess.
The college administrator may also be called upon to address the campus on behalf of the president or a department chair. Most college administrators report to the school president and dean. Many college administrators also serve on the Board of Trustees, the highest governing body of the school, to make suggestions on how to improve the school.
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