Assistant to the Dean for Credentialing and Cohort Programs

The Assistant to the Dean for Credentialing and Special Programs is a half-time administrative position within the School of Education with dual responsibilities in credentialing and special program management. The position manages credential analysis, processing, assessment, formal recommendations, and clearance management in compliance with California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) requirements.

In addition, the position supports the Dean in planning, developing, coordinating, and managing the school’s cohort-based and special academic programs. The role requires strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills, as well as the ability to manage regulatory processes, student advising, and institutional reporting within a collaborative academic environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Credential Analysis, Processing, and Recommendations

• Review and evaluate academic transcripts from La Sierra University and external institutions to determine credential eligibility, prerequisite completion, and program alignment.
• Process credential applications in accordance with institutional policies and CTC regulations.
• Conduct formal credential assessments and ensure completion and accuracy of all required documentation.
• Prepare, submit, and track credential recommendations to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
• Manage credential clearance processes, including preliminary, clear, and added authorizations, as applicable.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential credential records in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
• Work closely with, and report credential-related activities to, the School of Education’s CTC Liaison Director to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
• Coordinate with the CTC Liaison Director on credential submissions, audits, reporting requirements, and interpretation of CTC policies and updates. 

2. Credential Advising and Student Support

• Advise prospective and current students on credential pathways, requirements, timelines, and assessment outcomes.
• Respond to student inquiries regarding credential eligibility, application status, and clearance procedures.
• Communicate credential decisions and ensure that requirements are clearly and accurately communicated to students.
• Serve as a secondary point of contact for credential-related matters, working in coordination with the School of Education’s CTC Liaison Director.

3. Assistant to the Dean – Special Programs

• Serve as an assistant to the Dean of the School of Education on matters related to credentialing and special academic programs.
• Support the planning, development, coordination, and management of the school’s cohort-based and special programs (e.g., EdD, EdS, international, or partnership-based cohorts).
• Assist with program design, scheduling, enrollment planning, and operational workflows.
• Advise cohort and special program students on academic progression, registration, and program requirements.
• Monitor student progress and proactively identify academic or administrative issues that may affect timely program completion.
• Facilitate communication among the Dean, faculty, staff, and cohort students.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and orientation activities for special programs.

4. Compliance, Communication, and Additional Duties

• Remain current on credentialing regulations, CTC policies, and procedural changes.
• Ensure School of Education credentialing practices remain compliant with applicable standards.
• Assist in updating credentialing materials, program handbooks, and internal policy documents.
• Represent the School of Education at information sessions, orientations, and recruitment events as assigned.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Dean.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required in Education, Administration, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience or formal training in credential analysis, credential processing, academic advising, or higher education administration.
• Experience with credential recommendations, assessments, and clearance management is preferred.
• Experience supporting academic programs or working closely with senior academic leadership is desirable.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and organizational skills with close attention to detail.
• Ability to manage confidential records and complex regulatory processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to explain complex credential and program requirements clearly and accurately.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information and credential management systems.
• Ability to prepare accurate statistical, compliance, and administrative reports.
• Professional judgment, discretion, and reliability.

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to the mission and values of La Sierra University.
• Student-centered and service-oriented approach.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a shared administrative environment.
• Flexibility, initiative, and sound problem-solving skills.

Typical Physical Demands

• Primarily sedentary office work with occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 25 pounds).
• Manual dexterity sufficient to operate standard office equipment.
• Normal vision and hearing required.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment within the School of Education.
• Occasional evening or weekend responsibilities related to credential deadlines, cohort programs, or recruitment events.

Wage Range: $21.66 - $25.50 per hour.