The following job responsibilities are common for individuals in university dean of student roles:

• Organize, establish, and oversee all non-academic programs designed to enable student success, integration, and community
• Meet with representatives from student organizations—such as student government groups—to listen to concerns and form plans of action for resolving issues
• Hire and manage administrative leaders to operate specific departments and groups that fall under the student affairs umbrella
• Create and oversee university programs, publications, and information repositories designed to enhance campus life and provide necessary information to students and parents

A Day in the Life of a University Dean of Students

The university dean of students is responsible for ensuring non-academic offices, programs, and groups are successful. A university dean of students may oversee a large number of organizations, such as student housing, career services, fraternities and sororities, and new student orientation. Additionally, the dean of students may oversee the bursar’s office, financial aid office, and registrar’s office. The ultimate goal of the dean of students is to create a positive college experience for all students.

The university dean of students is expected to be a thought leader who devises new and creative ways of integrating new students, retaining existing students, and helping students achieve success both academically and professionally. They may establish special programs for freshmen designed to help them find their way through the school, register for classes, and apply for financial aid. They may also organize job fairs or internship/work-study programs designed to ensure success after graduation.

In addition to management, thought leadership, and oversight, the university dean of students will have more administrative responsibilities. He/she will likely oversee a budget and make determinations on where to allocate funds each year. The dean of students also has final authority on admissions decisions, sets policies for student behavior and academic standards, and may have final say on whether or not to allow a new student organization to be formalized and recognized by the institution.

Typical Work Schedule for University Deans of Students

The dean of students typically works normal business hours and has weekends and major holidays off. Unlike administrators that are focused on academics, the dean of students is likely required to work during the summer class session to prepare for the upcoming school year.

Projected Job Growth for University Dean of Students

As college enrollments continue to increase, the demand for individuals to work as dean of students or assistant deans should also experience some growth.

Typical Employers

Most major public and private colleges and universities employ one or more dean of students to oversee student affairs and university programs.