Director of Admissions

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The UNC Adams School of Dentistry Office of Academic Affairs oversees the various educational programs offered through the School and supports academic excellence. The Office of Academic Affairs staff members often participate in the admissions process and implement curriculum reviews and accreditation.The Office of Academic Affairs offers pre-admission evaluations for prospective DDS students, assists current students with any number of issues, and advocates for the student body to ensure needs are met.

The Director of Admissions will provide leadership and oversight for students applying to and entering the Adams School of Dentistry's ( ASOD) four-year professional program ( DDS) and the 2.5-year advanced standing program for international dentists. The Director of Admissions manages and oversees the operational aspects of the admissions process in collaboration with a faculty chair of the DDS Admissions Committee. This position supervises one SHRA admissions coordinator position and is supported by an SHRA shared clerical support position in the Office of Admissions and Student Life. The Director of Admissions reports to the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

More specifically, the Director has a direct role in admitting and enrolling students in sufficient quantity and quality to meet ASOD and overall University enrollment goals and to assure a smooth transition to professional school life for students. This entails directing a highly selective and competitive admissions process. Key areas of responsibility include developing and implementing policies and processes for application and admission review; reviewing, processing and evaluating applications for admissions, enrolling and transitioning prospective students; determining academic transfer credit; working with members of the Admissions team to recommend scholarship opportunities, awards, and other financial aid; providing input on strategic direction; promoting the ASOD and University, and building relationships with referring entities and spokesperson for ASOD dental admissions.

The Director of Admissions works with the Assistant Dean for Student Recruitment and Engagement to develop and implement strategies for building a strong applicant pool and is the public face for prospective students seeking admission to the ASOD Doctor of Dental Surgery program

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent educational or instructional activities associated with the delivery and/or management of student support functions, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and at least 1 year of relevant experience in substitution.

Considerable experience in a higher education setting, preferably in some area of student affairs (e.g., recruitment, admissions, registrar, financial aid).

In addition to common business software such as Microsoft Office, must be proficient with admissions software (e.g., Slate, national admissions software programs such as WebAdMIT or other platforms) and possess strong data analysis skills for enrollment management.

Must have a strong understanding of legal and compliance issues related to admissions, such as FERPA and adherence to non-discriminatory admissions policies.

Master's degree or doctorate in Education or equivalent education and experience.

Ideal candidates would have experience in support of health professions education and familiarity with processes at a higher education institution, preferably a dental or other health professions school.

The Director must demonstrate the ability to work well with prospective and current students, ASOD faculty and administration, relevant external entities, and staff within the ASOD and across the University.

Experience representing institutions at professional conferences, recruitment fairs, etc. preferred.

Ability to create content for admissions materials, websites, brochures, and videos to highlight the unique aspects of the program and attract top-tier candidates.

Proven track record leading an admissions team, effectively managing the admissions cycle, and enrolling a strong, mission-aligned incoming class.

The ideal candidate should have strong communication (both verbal and written), leadership, and organizational skills and should be able to:
effectively complete detail-oriented assignments while maintaining confidentiality;
handle multiple responsibilities in complex academic environment;
ability to work independently; and
promote/support working with a diverse workforce.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.