Academic Programs Officer (Social Work)

About the Role

The Academic Programs Officer serves as a pivotal link between academic and administrative functions within the Department of Social Work. Reporting to the Head of Department, this role is responsible for reviewing and recommending admissions pathways for students wishing to enter Social Work programs. The position requires a strong understanding of academic entry requirements and ASWEAS guidelines to ensure that students meet the necessary academic standards for admission. 

Position: Academic Programs Officer (Social Work) 

Reports to: Head of Department 

Assignment: Social Work Programs – All Campuses 

The Academic Programs Officer takes a lead role in assessing new student applications, evaluating transcripts, and ensuring compliance with AE policies and procedures for social work program entry. A key responsibility is ensuring a quick turnaround for eligibility assessments to support timely admissions decisions. The role will be pivotal in preparing and recommending student admission pathways to the Head of Department for approval. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead the review and recommendation of admissions pathways for prospective Social Work students. 
• Assess student applications from an academic perspective to ensure compliance with ASWEAS guidelines and AE policies. 
• Conduct timely transcript assessments to determine the most suitable pathway for entry into the Social Work program. 
• Prepare detailed reports and recommendations for the Head of Department’s approval regarding student admissions. 
• Ensure rapid processing of student applications, facilitating smooth admission into Social Work programs. 
• Develop and maintain administrative systems to streamline the student assessment and admissions process. 
• Act as the key liaison between the admissions team and the Head of Department to ensure rigorous academic oversight in the admissions process. 
• Ensure that only students who meet the correct academic requirements are recommended for admission to the Social Work programs. 
• Determine when an interview is required for potential students and arrange the interview between the candidate and the Head of Department or their delegate. 
• Prepare and communicate interview arrangements with the candidate and the Head of Department. 
• Maintain records of assessment outcomes and contribute to reporting on admissions trends. 
• Work collaboratively with admissions and student services teams to provide guidance on academic entry requirements. 

Selection Criteria 

The ideal candidate should: 

• Hold an undergraduate degree or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education/training. 
• Demonstrate strong administrative and coordination skills, with an ability to manage multiple tasks and competing deadlines. 
• Possess excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with a strong customer service ethic. 
• Have experience in student admissions, academic assessment, or a related field within a tertiary education environment. 
• Show initiative, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability in assessing student eligibility. 
• Work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team. 
• Have proficiency in computer literacy, particularly in MS Office (Word, Excel), student management systems, and digital learning platforms. 
• Exhibit knowledge of university policies, accreditation standards, and student admissions processes. 

Continued Professional Development 

• The Academic Programs Officer is expected to maintain professional currency through continued learning and professional development. A minimum of 20 hours of professional development per year is required to stay informed of changes in higher education policies, ASWEAS guidelines, and academic admissions best practices. 

Why work with us

• Opportunities to grow within the organization
• $1,500 professional development allowance
• Incredibly committed and supportive team of student-centric professionals
• Flexibility to work from home during non-teaching hours (For Academic staff)
• Be part of a fast-growing organization working in an agile environment
• Acknowledge education is part of UP Education group – Be part of a leading education provider: https://www.up.education/

Join the Acknowledge Education Team: Igniting Potential, Fostering Growth!

Acknowledge Education is a leading training provider with campuses throughout Australia offering a variety of courses in a range of industries such as health, community services, social work, business, civil construction and hospitality. In our 139-year history in education, we remain true to our mission to stay a challenging, relevant and creative leader in the education industry

True to our name, we acknowledge and celebrate the unique aspirations and achievements of every student. From our roots as an English language school in Victoria, ​we've evolved into a national academic powerhouse, with campuses in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane educating over 6,000 students every year.​ 

To find out more about us, please visit https://www.acknowledgeeducation.edu.au/about-us/  

To Apply: 

Questions about your identity help us appreciate the diversity of individuals looking to work with us, ensuring we’re attracting applications from people with identities and perspectives that are as diverse as our students. 

We are an equal opportunity employer. As part of our commitment to equity, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.