The duties of academic affairs workers varies depending on the specific job title. However, as shown by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as well as job descriptions from Concordia College, Nashville State Community College and Oklahoma State University, academic affairs workers develop and monitor curriculum and course schedules. They prepare academic documents for outside agencies and serve on academic councils, cabinets and boards. Academic affairs workers may assist with budgeting, coordinate and review all the textbooks purchased and used, set meeting agendas and supervise or liaise with other academic affairs staff. Academic affairs workers also are responsible for reviewing admissions applications and maintaining administrative records related to the students. Some offer counseling services and support programs to the students the academic facility serves.
Oklahoma State University and the BLS indicate that academic affairs workers must be able to evaluate documents and situations to make effective decisions--analysis is required daily. Good interpersonal and communication skills also are necessary to establish professional relationships and let students know what is required or available from the educational institution. Knowledge of computer systems, accounting and statistics is helpful.
According to the BLS, education administrators such as academic affairs workers typically get a bachelor's degree (often in education) and then start with staff-related jobs (e.g., administrative assistant). They then get a master's degree or doctorate in areas such as administration or academic counseling. A doctorate is required for the highest academic affairs positions. There are no licensing requirements for post-secondary facilities, but for public preschools, elementary and secondary schools, most states require that education administrators have a school administrator license, which requires a master's degree. The licensing requirements don't apply to private institutions.
According to Salary.com, a typical academic advising director can expect a median salary of $63,258 based on 2009 data. However, 2008 data from the BLS indicates that academic affairs workers may receive anywhere from $55,000 to $158,000, depending on the specific job title and experience.
Academic affairs workers typically work in academic offices, although they may travel to meetings and to promote admissions. These workers often enjoy working directly with students and figuring out ways for the student to meet academic goals. However, the 2010-2011 BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook points out that academic affairs workers have more duties than in the past. As a result of these additional responsibilities, academic affairs workers may experience higher levels of stress.