Academic Support Specialist
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Meet with students to assess academic needs and set learning goals
- Teach study strategies such as time management and note taking
- Provide tutoring support or coordinate tutoring services
- Help students understand course expectations and plan weekly workloads
- Track student progress and document support plans
- Refer students to campus resources such as advising and counseling
- Collaborate with faculty to align support with course requirements
- Support students with academic probation or at risk status plans
- Facilitate workshops on academic skills and learning habits
- Maintain student records while following privacy and compliance rules
Top Skills for Success
Active Listening
Empathy
Clear Writing
Public Speaking
Conflict De-escalation
Time Management
Coaching
Tutoring
Learning Strategy Instruction
Student Case Management
Academic Advising Basics
Student Privacy Compliance
Student Information Systems
Workshop Facilitation
Data Tracking
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Academic Coach
Student Success Advisor
Learning Specialist
Tutoring Center Coordinator
Accessibility Services Coordinator
Academic Program Coordinator
Transition Opportunities
Academic Advisor
Student Affairs Manager
Retention Specialist
Enrollment Services Specialist
Instructional Designer
School Counselor
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Student Information SystemsOutcome ReportingWorkshop DesignCrisis Response BasicsTrauma Informed Support
Development SuggestionsBuild comfort with common student systems, practice simple outcome tracking, and strengthen group workshop delivery. Seek training in student support protocols and collaborate with counseling and accessibility teams to learn escalation and accommodation workflows.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level$38,000 to $48,000
Mid Level$48,000 to $60,000
Senior Level$60,000 to $78,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand, supported by student retention goals, expanded academic coaching programs, and increased focus on student success services.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Public UniversitiesPrivate UniversitiesCommunity CollegesOnline CollegesK to 12 School DistrictsCharter School NetworksEducation NonprofitsTutoring ProvidersTest Preparation Companies
Industry Sectors
Higher EducationK to 12 EducationOnline EducationStudent Support ServicesNonprofit Education
Recommended Next Steps
1
Review job postings and list the top five required skills you see most often2
Create two short success stories that show student impact and measurable results3
Take a training course on academic coaching methods and learning strategies4
Practice facilitating a short workshop and request feedback from a supervisor or peer5
Learn one student information system through tutorials or shadowing6
Ask to support a retention or early alert initiative to gain experience with outreach and tracking