Student Services Lead, Professional Programs - 136145

The School of Computing, Information and Data Sciences (SCIDS) is composed of the founding units the Halicioglu Data Science Institute (HDSI) and the San Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC). HDSI serves as the academic core of the school, being home to multiple degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels; and SDSC serves as the operational and translational science core, with over 200 research personnel.

SCIDS has strong academic interactions and affiliations with existing UC San Diego Schools and academic departments including Jacobs School of Engineering, Social Sciences, Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Health Sciences and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. These relationships and interactions support the goal of transforming data into knowledge through development of data and information science, advancing innovative computing paradigms, and developing new contextual learning algorithms and methodologies that can transform society.

The Student Services Lead for Professional Programs plays a critical leadership role in advancing the student experience across the School of Computing, Information, and Data Sciences (SCIDS) at UC San Diego. Supporting a diverse and growing portfolio of professional programs-including the Master of Advanced Study in Data Science & Engineering (MAS-DSE), the Advanced Certificate in Foundational Data Science (FDS), and the online Master of Data Science (MDS)-this position delivers high-level coordination, strategic student services, and operational oversight across the full student lifecycle: from admissions and enrollment to academic advising, retention, and graduation.

Reporting to the Assistant Director of External Relations and Strategic Initiatives and working independently, the Student Services Lead applies deep knowledge of academic advising, student affairs, and university operations to ensure a seamless, student-centered experience. This position regularly collaborates with faculty, instructional staff, program directors, and central campus units-including the Graduate Division, Division of Extended Studies (DES), Digital Learning, and the Registrar's Office-on issues related to student success, academic progress, and degree completion.

The Student Services Lead is the primary liaison between students, faculty, and campus partners, providing individualized advising and holistic support. Responsibilities include resolving student issues such as admission deferrals, academic probation, accessibility accommodations, leaves of absence, and final degree audits. The incumbent recommends solutions to academic progression challenges and supports students in meeting curricular requirements.

This role oversees and coordinates key operational and logistical components of each program. For the weekend-format MAS-DSE program, the Student Services Lead manages high-touch services such as catering, parking, course material provisioning, lecture capture support, and one-on-one advising, which may involve supervising student workers and managing budgets for program events and services. For the FDS Certificate, the incumbent coordinates and processes quarterly enrollment by liaising with DES on course approvals and program capacity and supports the admissions committee for two admissions cycles annually. They also proactively track students' progress and encourage continuation from the certificate into degree programs.

In support of SCIDS's long-term enrollment goals, the Student Services Lead collaborates on strategic marketing, recruitment, and business development efforts. This includes implementing integrated, data-driven campaigns-leveraging alumni networks, social media, and industry partnerships-collaborating with the Assistant Director, Digital Marketing Specialist, and Senior Admissions Coordinator. The incumbent also regularly engages with prospective students, advising on admissions processes and promoting pathways into SCIDS professional programs.

In addition to student services and outreach, the Student Services Lead coordinates experiential programming such as capstone projects and showcases, student orientation, and graduation events-enhancing both the visibility and impact of SCIDS's professional offerings among working professionals, employers, and the broader data science community.

For more information, please visit https://scids.ucsd.edu.

• Ability to interpret and communicate University policies and procedures to prospective students and the public. In depth knowledge of complex and broadly written guidelines governing evaluation, admission, and deferral of graduate and transfer applicants.

• Proficient in a highly computerized environment (databases, email and mass communication systems, student record systems, virtual meetings, and online learning management systems). Willing and able to use and leverage audio-visual technology.

• Experience marketing an educational program and developing and implementing an outreach program in person, print and digitally.

• Demonstrated data management experience, including skills in developing and maintaining accurate and organized records.

• Experience with operational and logistical oversight and coordination for graduate programs.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Must be available alternating Saturdays for scheduled class days.

• Occasional evenings may be required.

• Occasional domestic travel may be required.

• Must be able to lift and carry items such as classroom materials or event supplies.

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