Study Abroad Specialist

Purpose of Position

The purpose of the Study Abroad Specialist is to help UND students, staff and faculty navigate the study abroad experience. The Study Abroad Specialist will provide comprehensive support to students pursuing long term programs, such as semester or summer programs abroad by guiding them through the process of program selection, application, submission and pre-departure preparation, including academic advising, travel documentation, cultural orientation, and risk management planning. Additionally, this person will collaborate with staff in the Experiential Learning Center and other study abroad staff to provide a positive and supportive atmosphere for students looking to engage in experiential learning opportunities.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Advise students, faculty, and staff on study abroad opportunities, policies, and procedures throughout the study abroad experience.
• Teach the required pre-departure course, providing instruction on cultural adjustment, travel preparation, health and safety, and risk management.
• Support students before, during, and after their study abroad experience through advising, ongoing communication, and re-entry programming.
• Plan and coordinate study abroad events, including the annual Study Abroad Fair, classroom presentations, admissions and orientation outreach, and campus programming.
• Serve as advisor to the Global Ambassador program and coordinate student ambassador engagement activities.
• Collaborate with academic departments, colleges, and campus partners to facilitate course approvals, credit transfer, scholarships, and other academic processes related to study abroad.
• Coordinate with international partner institutions and third-party providers on program logistics, student support, and academic offerings.
• Maintain study abroad applications, records, and web content to ensure accurate and timely information for students and campus partners.
• Represent UND Study Abroad through professional development, committee service, and outreach initiatives while contributing to continuous improvement of programs and services.
• Demonstrate professionalism, initiative, collaboration, and a strong commitment to providing exceptional service and support to students.

Required Competencies

• Demonstrates excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
• Organizes and prioritizes multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Applies sound judgment to resolve complex issues.
• Builds collaborative relationships with students, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Demonstrates cultural competence and the ability to work effectively with individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
• Continuously seeks opportunities to improve processes and enhance the student experience.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• 1 year of experience in higher education, student services, international programs or related administrative roles
• Experience advising or supporting students, ideally in academic, international or experiential learning contexts
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience living, studying, working or volunteering abroad, demonstrating firsthand understanding of cultural adjustment and global mobility
• Experience with NAFSA and Forum Education Abroad standards, including health, safety and compliance best practices

To Apply

Apply directly on the University of North Dakota's website by completing the application and submitting your resume and cover letter.