Program Coordinator, AU Centers Abroad

About this role

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

AU Centers Abroad Support

Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality:

Hybrid 01 (On Campus 3-4 Days/Week) Union:

SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division

This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500 - Provost & Enrollment Division.

Job Description:

Summary:

The Program Coordinator supports the advancement of the University's Global Pledge by strengthening the delivery, coordination, and student experience of cohort-based programs administered by AU Abroad, including AUA Centers and Cornerstone Abroad initiatives. The position plays an integrative role in program implementation, balancing hands-on student support, and cohort programming with administrative and logistical processes that enable successful participation in global experiences.

Through proactive student communication, careful oversight of the application and visa process, and coordination of program events, the Program Coordinator helps ensure that students are well-supported throughout the full study abroad lifecycle - from exploration and application through pre-departure preparation and program completion. Working collaboratively with program managers and campus partners, the role aligns operational workflows, student engagement efforts, and administrative systems with the University’s priorities for access, retention, and student success, while functioning independently with sound judgement, professionalism, and strong attention to detail.

Essential Functions:

1.) Student Support and Engagement • Provide front-line support to students exploring study abroad options, including guidance on program requirements, timelines, and processes.

• Offer general advising via email, drop-ins, information sessions, and class visits; escalate complex cases to Program Managers or Associate Directors.

• Support community-building and engagement activities for cohort programs, including AUA Centers and Cornerstone Abroad initiatives.

• Proactively communicate with students to encourage application completion, pre-departure readiness, and connection to campus resources.

2.) Program Operations • Coordinate daily operations for assigned cohort programs or study abroad cycles including updating pre- and post-decision application materials.

• Manage process-based tasks in Terra Dotta including reviewing application materials, updating statuses, tracking forms, generating reports, and ensuring accurate data.

• Support academic and registration workflows, including course registration preparation, add/drop tracking, transcript intake, and document verification.

• Coordinate student visa support process in accordance with established guidelines, including preparing visa letters, coordinating batch visa submissions, advising students, and developing and updating visa-related guidance material.

• Maintain internal tracking tools, shared documentation, and administrative workflows to ensure timely and accurate information exchange.

3.) Program Logistics and Coordinate Events • Coordinate logistics for orientations, information sessions, tabling events, study abroad fairs, and campus engagement activities.

• Support the planning and execution of cohort-based programming such as Embassy visits, Gateway course activities, cohort meet-ups, and reentry or reflection events.

• Provide on-the-ground logistical support for special initiatives, site visits, and cross-departmental events.

• Represent AU Abroad at recruitment and retention events as necessary.

4.) Communication • Draft and distribute communications, including reminders, onboarding messages, event announcements, and targeted outreach campaigns. 

• Maintains and update program cohort webpages and Terra Dotta content (FAQs, program information, guidance pages).

• Respond to inquiries via shared inboxes, phone lines, and front-facing service platforms.

5.) Special Projects and Administrative Support • Provide administrative support for AU Abroad initiatives, including front desk coverage during peak periods or staffing gaps.

• Offer student advising as needed.

• Contribute to departmental and university-wide projects and initiatives.

Competencies: • Serving Customers.

• Prioritizing and Organizing.

• Displaying Creativity.

• Acquiring and Analyzing Information.

• Supporting Coworkers.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: • Full-time.

• 35 hours per week.

• May occasionally require work on evenings and weekends. 

• Hybrid working will be offered. Current expectation is 3 days a week on campus, with 2 days per week working remotely. This may change depending on business needs.  

• This position is union eligible. 

Salary Range: • $30.22 - $32.97 per hour.

Required Education and Experience: • Bachelor's degree.

• 1 - 3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: • 2 - 4 years of relevant experience.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications: • Excellent planning, project management and facilitation skills with high-level attention to detail. 

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written skills, including the ability to develop and sustain relationships with a variety of stakeholders. 

• Ability to multi-task, organize and prioritize while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality. 

• Demonstrated organizational skills to establish goals; manage assignments and competing priorities; work under pressure of deadlines

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