Sacred Heart University·Bridgeport, Connecticut
The advisor will manage a caseload of dual degree and combined program students, providing proactive academic planning and support from entry through completion. They will also lead outreach initiatives and collaborate with faculty and campus partners to improve student retention and program effectiveness.
About Sacred Heart University As one of the nation’s largest Catholic universities and among the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century.
SHU offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus.
Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs.
Nearly 10,000 students attend the University’s nine colleges and schools: College of Arts & Sciences; School of Communication, Media & the Arts; School of Social Work; School of Performing Arts; College of Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; School of Computer Science & Engineering and the Dr.
Susan L.
Davis, R.N., & Richard J.
Henley College of Nursing.
Sacred Heart, a Laudato Si’ campus, stands out from other Catholic universities as it was established to be led by the laity.
This contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts and, at the same time, cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities.
The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition and Best Business Schools: 2025 Edition.
Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliate station, WSHU Public Radio; a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu View SHU’s Faculty Experts Here To apply Qualified candidates are invited to submit a completed application and résumé through the University's online application system.
Applications submitted outside of the official Careers at SHU website will not be considered.
Applicants should not apply through third-party or external job sites, as such postings may be fraudulent or may misrepresent opportunities that are no longer available at the University.
A cover letter or statement of interest is preferred for all staff positions.
Sacred Heart University complies with all federal and state employment laws and regulations.
Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work for any employer in the United States.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for this position.
The Dual Degree & Combined Program Advisor supports the success, progression, and transition of students pursuing dual degree and combined program pathways. This role provides proactive, student-centered advising, utilizes progression and data tracking processes, and leads outreach and programming to strengthen the undergraduate-to-graduate pipeline. Working collaboratively with faculty, admissions, and campus partners, the advisor helps ensure a seamless, well-supported student experience while using data and engagement strategies to improve retention, enrollment, and overall program effectiveness. Principal
Student Advising & Caseload Management Independently advise and support a caseload of dual degree and combined program pathway students from entry through completion. Provide holistic, proactive advising that supports academic planning, progression, and timely degree completion. Partner with students to navigate dual/combined degree requirements, policies, and transitions from undergraduate to graduate study. Student Progression & Success Management Monitor student progress using established systems and identify at-risk students through data and early alert mechanisms. Conduct targeted outreach and implement intervention strategies to support student retention and success. Support student progression processes, including tracking eligibility, preparing student materials, and assisting with review processes. Translate institutional strategy into student-facing processes, communications, and advising practices that support the undergraduate-to-graduate pipeline. Collaborate with internal partners to ensure alignment of messaging and a seamless student experience. Programming, Outreach & Engagement Plan and execute workshops, information sessions, onboarding programs, and engagement initiatives for dual degree, combined programs, and prospective graduate students. Lead outreach efforts to increase awareness and participation in combined program pathways. Support recruitment-related events and represent programs to prospective and current students. Assist in coordination with faculty, graduate program staff, admissions, and other campus partners to support student success and program alignment. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Attributes Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs, College Student Development, Counseling, or related field required. Experience in health professions, student counseling, advisement, or related experience. Knowledge of health careers and curriculum preferred. Knowledge of academic advising best practices, student development theory, and retention strategies. Ability to engage students with empathy, professionalism, and cultural awareness. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into student-friendly messaging. Experience using CRM systems (e.g., Advise, Slate, or similar) and student information systems. Strong attention to detail in tracking and managing student information. Experience developing communications, presentations, and outreach materials. Ability to plan, implement, and assess programs, workshops, and events. Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and campus partners. Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, team-oriented approach. Ability to identify challenges, think critically, and implement solutions independently Unusual Working Conditions Occasional evening and weekend hours required This job posting provides an overview of the role's general nature and expected tasks. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of all duties performed. The university reserves the right to modify or reassign job responsibilities at any time. This posting description does not constitute an employment contract, either explicit or implied. Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.
A Master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates should have experience in student counseling or advisement, along with strong organizational and communication skills.
Market context
In Connecticut, advising roles in higher education often draw steady interest because students in dual degree and combined programs need clear guidance on complex academic paths. These positions are competitive when candidates bring graduate-level preparation, counseling or advisement experience, and strong organization and communication skills. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to show experience supporting students through multi-step academic planning.