Director Graduate Studies

Director of Graduate Studies

West Liberty University | West Liberty, West Virginia

Shape the Future of Graduate Education

West Liberty University is seeking an innovative, strategic, and student-centered leader to serve as our next Director of Graduate Studies. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact on graduate education by driving enrollment growth, strengthening academic partnerships, and advancing graduate programs that meet the evolving needs of students and employers.

As the University's chief advocate for graduate education, the Director will provide vision and leadership for the continued growth, development, and success of graduate programs. Working collaboratively with academic leadership, faculty, and university stakeholders, the Director will oversee graduate enrollment management, student engagement initiatives, program support, and policy development while ensuring an exceptional graduate student experience from recruitment through graduation.

If you are a relationship-builder, strategic thinker, and higher education professional passionate about expanding access to graduate education and fostering innovation, we encourage you to apply.

 

What You'll Do

Lead Graduate Enrollment Growth

• Develop and execute strategic recruitment and enrollment initiatives to attract and retain graduate students.
• Oversee graduate admissions, registration, orientation, and related enrollment management functions.
• Analyze enrollment data and market trends to identify opportunities for program growth and student success.
• Represent West Liberty University at recruitment events, conferences, and community engagement activities on and off campus.

Advance Graduate Education Strategy

• Collaborate with the Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs, deans, and academic departments to establish strategic priorities for graduate education.
• Support the development and implementation of innovative graduate programs aligned with workforce and industry needs.
• Help shape policies, processes, and initiatives that enhance the quality and effectiveness of graduate education.

Build Partnerships and Foster Innovation

• Cultivate relationships across campus and within the community that support graduate program growth, partnerships, and external funding opportunities.
• Serve as an ambassador for graduate education and advocate for graduate student success.
• Promote awareness of graduate offerings through effective communication, marketing, web presence, and social media engagement.

Manage Operations and Student Support

• Direct the University's Graduate Assistant Program, including application processes, appointments, training, evaluations, and program administration.
• Maintain the graduate catalog and oversee policies and procedures related to graduate studies.
• Manage Graduate Studies software systems, website content, and communications platforms.
• Serve on university committees and task forces as a key voice for graduate education.

Lead and Develop Staff

• Supervise and mentor assigned staff through hiring, onboarding, training, performance management, and professional development.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented culture focused on excellence and continuous improvement.

 

Qualifications

Required Education & Experience

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible leadership or supervisory experience.
• At least three years of experience in student recruitment, enrollment management, admissions, higher education administration, or a related area.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams, managing projects, and achieving measurable outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with graduate or professional academic programs.
• Knowledge of graduate admissions, enrollment management, and student success best practices.
• Experience utilizing data to inform strategic decision-making and program development.

Desired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strategic planning and organizational leadership abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to collect, interpret, and leverage data to drive results.
• Experience managing complex projects and multiple priorities.
• Commitment to student success and customer service excellence.
• Adaptability, initiative, and a collaborative leadership style.
• Proficiency with technology, student information systems, and digital communication platforms.
  

Why Join West Liberty University?

At West Liberty University, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while contributing to the growth and innovation of West Virginia's oldest public university.

Outstanding Benefits Include:

• Approximately 24 days of annual leave per year.
• 12-13 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• 100% undergraduate tuition waiver for eligible employees, spouses, and dependents.
• 50% graduate tuition waiver for eligible employees in select programs.
• Complimentary access to campus wellness facilities.
• Free admission to WLU events with your employee Topper Card.
• A beautiful campus community located near the vibrant Wheeling area.

Learn more about employee benefits on the WLU Benefits Page.

Interested in relocating? Discover everything the Wheeling region has to offer by visiting Live in Wheeling.

About West Liberty University

West Liberty University is committed to providing a dynamic learning environment where students thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to innovation, student success, and community engagement.

West Liberty University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals. Applicants requiring accommodation during the application process may contact Human Resources at hr@westliberty.edu.

West Liberty University does not sponsor employment visas. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Successful completion of a background screening is required as a condition of employment.

West Liberty University is proud to be a tobacco-free campus.