Most colleges and universities have at least one registrar. Some larger universities may have more than one. Hospitals, hotels and other large corporations with large amounts of records may employ registrars. However, when one thinks of a registrar, colleges and universities first come to mind.
The registrar serves as the manager of the all the student records at a college or university, such as admissions forms, transcripts and degree applications. The registrar also supervises all other employees that work in the registrations and/or records offices, plans registration schedules each year, coordinates class schedules and room assignments and helps to update college bulletins each year.
Registrars may also be in charge of coordinating graduation ceremonies. Also, the registrar may be responsible for planning and overseeing the department's budget. In addition, the registrar may be needed to resolve disputes concerning student records.
A registrar needs to have at least a master's degree in educational administration, student services or another business or education related field. Also, registrars need three to five years' experience working in a post-secondary environment. Registrars should be computer literate and be able to work with various computer programs such as word processors, databases and spreadsheets. They should also work well as part of team and demonstrate a positive attitude.
According to MySalary.com, the median salary for a registrar is about $73,000. New registrars with little experience typically make much less. Registrars who work for state agencies such as public colleges and universities will also receive benefits such as retirement and health insurance.