What is a program advisor and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
3 min read
introduction image

The program advisor oversees the planning and execution of projects to ensure it is according to goals and guidelines. The duties of a program advisor differ based on the industry of employment and their line of work. However, it generally includes identifying new opportunities through research and analysis. He/She collects and analyzes client's feedback. He/She is also responsible for developing strategies to achieve the objectives of every program. Furthermore, he/she ensures every operation goes according to plan and proffers solutions when problems arise.

Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in a related field and a minimum of two years of experience in a similar role. Applicants must be able to work with youths, adults, and a multicultural population. Program advisors must possess analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills. In terms of salary, they earn an average of $45,855 per year. This varies between $23,000 and $88,000.

ScoreProgram AdvisorUS Average
Salary
4.3

Avg. Salary $55,656

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
9.0

Growth Rate 10%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
6.0
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.62%

Asian 3.74%

Black or African American 10.64%

Hispanic or Latino 14.20%

Unknown 3.76%

White 67.03%

Gender

female 55.19%

male 44.81%

Age - 41
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 41
Stress Level
9.0

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
9.7

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
5.7

Work Life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Program Advisor career paths

Key steps to become a program advisor

  1. Explore program advisor education requirements

    Most common program advisor degrees

    Bachelor's

    64.9 %

    Master's

    19.0 %

    Associate

    8.4 %
  2. Start to develop specific program advisor skills

    Skills
    ascdesc
    Percentages
    ascdesc
    Customer Service29.29%
    Persistence10.62%
    Intellectual Disabilities8.37%
    Veterans8.30%
    Project Management5.13%
  3. Complete relevant program advisor training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New program advisors learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a program advisor based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real program advisor resumes.
  4. Research program advisor duties and responsibilities

    • Study and implement marketing through Facebook and other various websites which generate sales leads.
    • Manage UAFS's F-1/J-1 student visa SEVIS compliance as DSO/ARO, ensuring all documentation is in order prior to students arriving.
    • Train office staff and first-year graduate assistant on proper usage of PeopleSoft software.
    • Determine eligibility for WIOA training funds (unemploy, under employed/food stamp program).
  5. Prepare your program advisor resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your program advisor resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a program advisor resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Program Advisor Resume templates

    Build a professional Program Advisor resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Program Advisor resume.
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
    Program Advisor Resume
  6. Apply for program advisor jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a program advisor job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Program Advisor Job

Zippi

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Average program advisor salary

The average Program Advisor salary in the United States is $55,656 per year or $27 per hour. Program advisor salaries range between $32,000 and $96,000 per year.

Average Program Advisor Salary
$55,656 Yearly
$26.76 hourly

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How do program advisors rate their job?

-/5

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Program Advisor reviews

profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Aug 2023
Pros

Fulfilling, has a flexible schedule, and very team-oriented environment.

Cons

It can be stressful, with a heavy workload. Talking to patients who are in crisis or who are displeased with services can be emotionally draining.


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Dec 2019
Pros

I like to work with students and their families

Cons

Want to be able to do more


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A zippia user wrote a review on Mar 2019
Pros

Guiding students toward rewarding careers.


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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