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ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, School of Education,

Boston University, Boston, MA, United States


ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF GRADUATE STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES, School of Education, Academic Services

Reporting to the Director of Recruitment, Admissions, & Financial Aid (RAFA), the Associate Director of Graduate Student Financial Services is responsible for all aspects of financial aid, student accounts, and student financial services for new and continuing graduate students at BU Wheelock. They manage a portfolio of more than 1,000 student accounts representing over $20 million in tuition revenue, along with associated financial aid across all funding sources including institutional funds, donor funds, grant funds, and federal aid. The role is based in Boston, MA, and requires a 3/2 hybrid work modality with an office on the Charles River Campus. The position is full‑time and offers access to the University's comprehensive benefits plan.

Essential Functions Financial Aid Strategy and Resource Management (40%)

Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing refinement of financial aid strategy in support of graduate enrollment goals, student retention, and broader institutional priorities.

Oversee the allocation of merit aid for new and continuing students, including award strategy, policy application, and stewardship of the financial aid budget.

Use data, modeling, and enrollment trends to inform decision‑making and ensure aid resources are deployed effectively and sustainably.

Student Financial Operations and Stewardship (30%)

Provide strategic oversight of student financial operations to ensure accurate billing, aid application, and sound administration of student‑related funding.

Oversee institutional processes related to student accounts, special cohort billing and award structures, restricted fund management, and loan program administration.

Partner with colleagues across finance and university offices to maintain strong fiscal controls, operational integrity, and a high standard of service to students.

Student Advising, Communication, and Enrollment Support (20%)

Lead student‑facing financial aid communication and advising efforts in ways that support access, transparency, and student success.

Ensure prospective and current students receive accurate, timely, and supportive guidance regarding educational financing, financial aid options, and related policies.

Develop communication strategies, informational materials, and outreach approaches that strengthen the student experience and support recruitment, enrollment, and persistence goals.

Compliance, Policy, and Continuous Improvement (10%)

Maintain broad and deep knowledge of applicable financial aid regulations, policies, and best practices, and ensure alignment with institutional and regulatory requirements.

Oversee the review and refinement of policies, procedures, and business practices to strengthen compliance, improve effectiveness, and support evolving organizational needs. Contribute to cross‑functional initiatives, university partnerships, and special projects that advance operational excellence across the college.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.

5+ years of work experience in higher education or non‑profit finance‑related role.

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and database management, including experience analyzing large datasets.

Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.

Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with BU systems including Campus Solutions, Slate, MicroStrategy, and SAP.

Knowledge of Title IV federal student aid programs and regulations.

Prior experience counseling students on federal loan options.

Compensation The salary range for this position is $70,000 to $80,000 annually. This range is based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and the overall scope of the role. Please note that the final salary offered may vary depending on these factors.

Confidential Data All information (written, verbal, electronic, etc.) that an employee encounters while working at Boston University is considered confidential. Employees must adhere to University and departmental policies, guidelines and procedures; and all applicable laws and regulations at all times.

Equal Opportunity Employer We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy‑related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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