A dean of students develops, maintains and oversees all student activities. His job focuses on all aspects of student life and requires him to balance educational, cultural and social development programs to best serve the most students. He is typically expected to promote an impartial atmosphere of support, safety and health to the student body. This position is commonly available at a college or university level but may also be offered at elementary, middle and high school levels.
This job normally requires exemplary organizational and time management skills. A dean is traditionally involved in regular communications with the school’s teachers, professors and administrators as well as representatives of various student organizations and special interest groups. He is generally expected to maintain a high level of objectivity in his decisions while serving everyone’s concerns equitably and in the best interests of the school’s goals and objectives.
Besides being heavily involved in educational program and policy administration, the dean of students is generally expected to make significant contributions to other areas of student development. These commonly include physical, spiritual and emotional endeavors. His goal is typically expected to be one that promotes leadership, respect for diversity and moral conduct. If infractions regarding misuse of alcohol or drugs or improper student conduct occur, the dean of students normally has a great deal of influence on what disciplinary actions are taken.
Aside from his administrative duties, a dean of students customarily provides counsel to students. The topics on which he advises are generally diverse and frequently include matters pertaining to financial aid, scholarships and grants, personal relationships, social activities and career or educational objectives. He is often asked to provide guidance to campus clubs or student groups.
As a community liaison, the dean of students is generally required to represent the institution at city council meetings or other local gatherings. When student interests or affairs are topics of discussion, he is frequently viewed as their unbiased spokesperson. He may also be asked to participate in alumni functions or address parent groups who may have interests regarding student welfare.
Behind the scenes, the dean of students is typically involved in a wide range of administrative tasks. These ordinarily include budget assessments, admissions procedures, health service programs and allocation of funds to student organizations. Other common responsibilities of the dean of students include managing campus services, such as security, food and dining, housing, counseling and events coordination.
Qualifications for this position normally include a doctorate or master’s degree in education or public administration. Related degrees may be considered in conjunction with related experience. Ten years of experience in an educational setting regularly dealing with students and administrators is usually preferred.
