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Academic Advisor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Academic Advisor

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

Number of Vacancies 1 General Summary Provides comprehensive academic advising services to undergraduate students. Major Duties * Advises both enrolled and prospective undergraduate students on ...

Position Details Position Information Position Title Professional Academic Advisor Pay Grade Level E-3 FLSA Exempt Benefits Health, dental, vision, life, short-term and long-term disability insurance ...

Posting Details Posting Details Position Title Academic Adviser Department 3154 - First Year Advising Center Position Number 988882 Requisition No. S02799 Salary Range/Pay Rate $51,375 annually.

MSW Program Advisor

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$58K - $61K/yr

Academic Advising & Degree Planning * Conduct individual advising sessions to assist students in developing and managing comprehensive degree plans. * Monitor student progress toward degree ...

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Academic Advisor information

See Michigan salary details

$25.3K

$41.4K

$56.2K

How much do academic advisor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic advisor in Michigan is $41,361.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $44,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Academic Advisor Do?

Academic advisors provide advice and guidance to students about their educational choices at secondary schools and in colleges and universities. This position may be a full-time job, or the advisors may also work as a classroom teacher or professor. At the college level, students typically choose an academic advisor in their major department, although the school may also have general academic advisors who assist students to understand graduation requirements and course selection and help them identify overall education goals.

What are academic advisors?

Academic advisors are professionals who help students navigate their educational journey at colleges or universities. They assist with course selection, academic planning, and understanding graduation requirements. Advisors also provide guidance on career paths, internships, and other academic opportunities, ensuring students make informed decisions. Their support helps students stay on track for graduation and make the most of their educational experience.

How can I get a job as an academic advisor?

To become an academic advisor, typically a bachelor's degree in education, counseling, or a related field is required, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Relevant experience in education or student services can improve job prospects, and some positions may require a master's degree or certification. Applying through college or university job boards and demonstrating knowledge of academic policies and student support are important steps.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Academic Advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Advisor, you typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in education, counseling, or a related field, along with knowledge of academic policies and degree requirements. Familiarity with student information systems (such as Banner or PeopleSoft) and advising management platforms is important. Excellent interpersonal skills, active listening, and problem-solving abilities help foster positive relationships and guide students effectively. These competencies ensure students receive accurate guidance, support, and resources to achieve their academic and career goals.

How hard is it to become an academic advisor?

Becoming an academic advisor typically requires at least a bachelor's degree, often in education, counseling, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, interpersonal abilities, and knowledge of academic policies; some positions may prefer or require a master's degree or relevant experience. Certification is not usually mandatory but can enhance job prospects and credibility.

What is the difference between Academic Advisor vs Academic Counselor?

AspectAcademic AdvisorAcademic Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often a master's in education or counselingBachelor's or master's degree in counseling, psychology, or education
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, advising students on course selection and degree planningEducational or mental health settings, providing guidance on academic and personal issues
Employer & Industry UsageColleges and universitiesColleges, universities, and sometimes community programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in academic planningDistinguishing counseling vs advising roles

While both roles support students' academic success, Academic Advisors primarily focus on course selection and degree pathways, whereas Academic Counselors often address broader personal and emotional challenges impacting academic performance. The roles may overlap, but their core functions and training differ slightly.

What does an academic advisor do?

An academic advisor helps students plan their educational paths, select courses, and meet graduation requirements. They provide guidance on academic policies, support student success, and often use advising software to track progress. Strong communication and knowledge of institutional programs are essential for this role.

How does an Academic Advisor typically collaborate with faculty and other campus departments to support student success?

Academic Advisors often work closely with faculty and various campus departments to ensure that students receive comprehensive support. This collaboration may include coordinating on academic progress concerns, connecting students with tutoring or counseling services, and assisting with curriculum planning. Advisors frequently attend interdepartmental meetings and may serve on committees focused on student retention and graduation initiatives. This teamwork helps create a network of resources, enabling Advisors to guide students effectively toward their academic and career goals.

What qualifications do I need to be an academic advisor?

To become an academic advisor, a bachelor's degree in education, counseling, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring or requiring a master's degree. Relevant skills include strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational abilities, and some roles may require experience in counseling or student services. Certifications such as the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) credential can enhance job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Advisor jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Academic Advisor jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Academic Advisor jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Academic Advisor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Academic Advisor jobs in MI? For Academic Advisor jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Academic Advisor job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,361 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

$39K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 613 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Posting Summary
College
Haworth College Of Business
Executive Area
Provost & VP Academic Affairs
Department
HCOB - Office of Academic Advising
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S1672P
Job Type
Full Time, Regular
Pay Type
Exempt/Salaried
Pay Grade
D
Campus Location
WMU-Kalamazoo - Main Campus
Salary Range
Pay is commensurate with qualifications and experience, combined with an excellent benefits package.
Number of Vacancies
1
General Summary
Provides comprehensive academic advising services to undergraduate students.
Major Duties
  • Advises both enrolled and prospective undergraduate students on University, college, and departmental academic requirements, including admissions, general education, and specific program, major, and minor requirements. Applies an understanding of the diverse needs of students, faculty, and staff to provide effective developmental advising.
  • Explains graduation requirements to students and provides information about course prerequisites, alternatives, and equivalents.
  • Creates, reviews and updates graduation plans with students to promote personal growth, academic excellence, career development, and timely degree completion.
  • Promotes and participates in professional development focused on the unique needs of students, faculty and staff, from a wide range of backgrounds. Fosters a safe and inclusive environment to advance equity.
  • Supports students with registration and may assist in coordinating course scheduling. Demonstrates effective engagement and collaboration with faculty, staff, and students from a wide range of backgrounds.
  • Assists with projects as assigned.
  • May assist in recruitment and retention efforts.
  • May evaluate student-athlete and NCAA compliance issues with athletic department personnel.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
  • One year's relevant experience.
  • Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
  • One year's experience working with college students.
  • Ability to work irregular shifts and extended hours, including evenings and weekends..

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree in related field specific to hiring college or higher education in general from an accredited institution.
  • Professional academic advising experience at WMU.

Special Instructions to Applicants
  • External applicants should use the WMU - Application.
  • Internal applicants should use the WMU - Internal Application.

Additional Position Information
  • Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, go to: https://www.wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-staff
  • Staff Compensation System pay grades and rates are available at: https://wmich.edu/hr/staffcompensation

Physical requirements and working conditions
  • Office or other indoor work with minimal physical demands such as occasionally lifting or moving materials less than 25 pounds.
  • Work is generally performed in a well-lit, temperature-controlled indoor environment with occasional exposure to the outdoors or any number of elements.

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