Admissions Manager

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

The Admissions Manager plays a vital, forward-facing role in advancing Columbia Climate School's graduate admissions and recruitment efforts for its degree portfolio, including the MA in Climate and Society , MS in Climate , and MS in Climate Finance programs. Reporting directly to the Senior Director of Admissions and Marketing, the Admissions Manager will lead planning and execution of on-campus, off-campus, and virtual recruitment events, manage high-volume prospective student communications, and actively contribute to the evaluation and selection of candidates.

This role requires a proactive, organized, and highly collaborative professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, is comfortable representing Columbia Climate School to diverse audiences, and demonstrates meticulous attention to detail in managing the admissions process from prospect to enrolled student.

Responsibilities

Recruitment & Event Management

• Plan, coordinate, and execute on-campus, off-campus, and virtual recruitment events, including graduate school fairs, information sessions, webinars, and targeted outreach initiatives.
• Oversee the planning and logistics for Columbia Climate School's annual On-Campus Climate and Sustainability Open House, engaging faculty, alumni, and current students.
• Assist in the planning and promotion of virtual yield events and the annual On-Campus Admitted Student Day.
• Manage the campus tour schedule for prospective students and visitors, ensuring a high-quality and engaging experience.
• Represent the Columbia Climate School at recruitment events, delivering compelling presentations and engaging with prospective students.
• Hold one-on-one admissions appointments with prospective and admitted students throughout the admissions cycle.

Admissions Operations & Communications

• Manage the admissions inbox, ensuring timely, accurate, and professional responses to prospective student inquiries.
• Develop and maintain standard communications to ensure consistent and high-quality messaging across all recruitment channels.
• Support the admissions application cycle by testing the application system each year to ensure proper functionality and user experience.

Application Review & Evaluation

• Conduct initial pre-screening of application files to ensure completeness and alignment with program requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to FERPA and institutional admissions policies.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Work closely with faculty, program directors, and Academic Affairs colleagues across Columbia Climate School to align recruitment strategies with academic goals.
• Contribute to data tracking and reporting on recruitment and admissions metrics to inform strategic planning.
• Support special projects and initiatives as assigned by the Senior Director of Admissions and Marketing.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and / or equivalent related experience required.
• Minimum 2-4 years related experience in admissions, recruitment, higher education, or related field.
• Strong public speaking and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to plan and execute events, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with CRM and admissions management systems (e.g., Slate, Technolutions) strongly preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically, and work evenings / weekends as required for events.
• Valid driver's license required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree preferred.
• Experience with graduate program admissions and / or climate, sustainability, or related academic disciplines.
• Familiarity with digital recruitment tools, virtual event platforms, and data analytics for enrollment management.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.