The MS in Applied Data Science program (MS-ADS) is a professional graduate program within the Data Science Institute (DSI) and Physical Sciences Division (PSD) at the University of Chicago. The DSI executes the University of Chicago's bold, innovative vision of Data Science as an evolving discipline; the PSD explores new frontiers in the physical and mathematical sciences to lead the world in inquiry and impact. The purpose of MS-ADS is to advance the careers of diverse students for technical- and/or management-focused careers in data science. Students may apply for full- or part-time admissions for the In-Person Program, Online Program, or a Dual Degree program. Admitted students benefit from a dedicated, full-service team in support of robust student and alumni outcomes. The MS-ADS program is located at the university's NBC Tower space in downtown Chicago, IL.
Job Summary
In collaboration with lateral and senior colleagues, the Assistant Director will lead the MS in Applied Data Science's (MS-ADS) recruitment and admissions processes for the full- and part-time Online Program which is housed in the University of Chicago's Physical Sciences Division (PSD). As needed, the Assistant Director will support the full portfolio of the program's degree offerings (i.e., full- and part-time In-Person Program; MBA/MS program; future degree offerings). This new hire will join the MS-ADS's Enrollment Management team and will report to the MS-ADS Director of Enrollment Management with some (dotted line) reporting to the Associate Director of Enrollment Management. This team member will interface with central offices in the PSD such as the Registrar's Office, Office of International Affairs (OIA), and program leadership to design, execute, and assess the recruitment and admissions strategy for the Online MS-ADS program. The Online program launched in autumn 2022 and remains as the first fully online master's degree program at the University of Chicago.
The Assistant Director will join a mid-sized team of instructional services/innovation, enrollment management, student affairs, career services/external partnerships, and marketing/advertising staff-in addition to a large group of faculty and instructors who are experts in the field of data science and analytics. The Assistant Director will provide critical support for daily operations and strategy for this revenue generating master's program and will work with minimal guidance to recruit, yield, and manage the application review process in relationship to annual enrollment targets. In addition, the new hire will work closely program faculty directors and internal and external marketing/advertising partners to establish competitive recruitment goals, objectives, and strategies for paid media efforts.
In partnership with colleagues, the Assistant Director will develop detailed annual and quarterly recruitment plans to establish the flow of outreach activities and communications to Online Program students. This position is further unique in that the Assistant Director will have the opportunity to impact how Online master's programs are shaping the evolving, growing field of data science and best practices for how online programs are managed at the University of Chicago. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.
Responsibilities
Guide Online Program prospective students through the admissions funnel (from inquiry to enrollment) with little to no guidance and instruction from others.
Coordinate the process for evaluating applications to the Online Program on a rolling basis (currently 2 intakes-autumn quarter, spring quarter).
Design plans to increase brand awareness as it relates to the Online Program's relevant prospective student populations.
Develop relationships with institutions regionally and nationally, per program recruitment strategy with a focus Online Program growth.
Plans and attend yield events, information sessions, and graduate fairs to strategically recruit Online Program students.
Manage event programming such as receptions and admissions or yield events for Online Program prospective students (primarily virtual; some in-person).
Participate in special projects such as co-developing marketing materials, monitoring budgets, and recruiting underrepresented groups with moderate/high levels of authority.
Act as a liaison between program staff and prospective students through email, phone, in-person, and/or video communication channels.
Provide support for Online Program student matriculation by participating in student onboarding in coordination with the Student Affairs team.
In partnership with program leadership, establish Online Program recruitment goals and monitor and report on progress.
Analyze Online Program prospective and current student data to identify prospect profile segments; work closely with marketing team to develop strategies and communicates to reach and engage prospective students.
In collaboration with internal and external marketing/advertising colleagues, benchmark and monitor competitive online programs to understand recruitment best practices and to proactively share those with internal and external stakeholders.
Collaborate with other Online Program staff and faculty to maintain a detailed and current grasp of students' experiences and to identify opportunities for alumni engagement efforts.
Use in-depth knowledge and experience to administer the delivery of services to program participants and/or beneficiaries such as communicating with programs sponsors and academic advising for undergraduate students.
Develop and communicate program priorities and performance standards and assesses operations using these criteria. Plans and conducts quality assurance reviews and recommends changes as appropriate.
Manage program budgets and recommends or makes budgetary recommendations.
Has a deep understanding when interacting with faculty, researchers and staff for committee work or information.
Expands outreach messaging via alumni clubs and special events and/or reunions. Maintains updated alumni contact records and cultivates new contacts in appropriate industries. Manages portfolio of prospective students that require special handling.
Manages regional event programming such as receptions and career trek field trips for students. Works independently to expand outreach to employers in the region.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
--- Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
--- Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Experience:
Previous experience working in higher education or related field.
Previous experience working with graduate and/or online degree programs.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Knowledge of marketing and social media vehicles for engaging with prospective students.
Experience using Slate, Destiny, Salesforce, or other CRM.
Basic research skills (ability to conduct, analyze, and synthesize topic-based research).
Preferred Competencies
Strong interest and/or expertise in online degree programs.
Experience working directly with and/or interfacing in some capacity with paid advertising initiatives.
Demonstrated ability to effectively plan, focus and execute to take recruitment strategy from concept to execution in the context of graduate and/or online degree programs.
Must deal effectively with people, be trustworthy with student records.
Strong prioritization skills and ability to navigate interruptions/unanticipated obstacles.
Work well under pressure.
Close attention to detail vital.
Capacity to take initiative and manage-up.
Ability to publicly present enrollment management goals and objectives to both internal and external partners (staff, faculty, other leaders).
Commitment to excellence reflected in distinction, effectiveness, efficiency, enthusiasm, passion, and quality.
Guided by a strong customer service ethos.
Inclusive leadership and management style with an ability to bridge diverse areas and work with diverse individuals with fairness, impartiality, and respect.
High degree of personal and professional integrity, reflected in accountability, ethical behavior, honesty, and reliability.
Strategic and future-oriented, demonstrated success in developing and execute multi-year plans for enrollment growth.
Ability to build strong, effective relationships with existing and new stakeholders.
Strong leadership, project management and team skills.
High level of enthusiasm and dedication to mission of organization.
Work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
Foundational skills in Slate and/or Excel are critical.
Ability to manage ambiguity.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Cover Letter (required)
Professional References Contact Information (3) (required)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Student Affairs & Services
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
