Associate RegistrarOffice of the RegistrarAmerican University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), UAEGeneral Information About InstitutionThe American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is an independent, coeducational institution of higher education that provides an integrated American-style undergraduate and graduate education. All programs are accredited by the Ministry of Education of the UAE. AURAK is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The American model of higher education combines specialized study with a general education curriculum that exposes students to new ideas and encourages critical thinking about local and global issues. AURAK is located in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the Northern Emirates, known for its white sandy beaches, the Hajar Mountains, desert landscapes, and historical sites.
AURAK values diversity, inclusiveness, and cultural authenticity and treats individuals based on their merits and abilities. AURAK is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified applicants irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or age.
About The RoleThe American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is seeking an experienced Associate Registrar to join the Office of the Registrar in a full-time professional staff position.
Reporting to the University Registrar, the Associate Registrar leads the day-to-day operations of the Office, with direct responsibility for registration, academic records, academic scheduling, and graduation. The role implements academic and registration policies, safeguards student records, and supports operational planning, reporting, and service improvement. The Associate Registrar also deputizes for the University Registrar as delegated.
Key Responsibilities
- * Manage the full registration cycle each term, including pre-registration, registration, add/drop, late registration, and withdrawals.
- Oversee student academic records, including status and grade changes, transfer credits, academic standing, probation, and dismissal.
- Review course schedules, final examination schedules, and room allocations before publication. Work with Deans and Chairs to resolve escalated scheduling conflicts.
- Oversee graduation audits, verify graduate information, and ensure the accurate and timely issuance of transcripts, certificates, and enrollment verification letters.
- Interpret and apply academic and registration policies, advise students and academic units, and refer exceptions to the University Registrar with recommendations.
- Ensure compliance with university policies and applicable requirements of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) and the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). Protect the confidentiality and security of student records.
- Contribute to the review and development of academic and registration policies and procedures.
- Prepare enrollment, registration, and graduation reports for university management, institutional research, and external bodies.
- Contribute to operational planning, monitor key performance indicators, and support institutional effectiveness assessments, audits, and quality assurance reviews.
- Monitor processing times, record accuracy, and student satisfaction, and recommend improvements to registration services.
- Deputize for the University Registrar as delegated, represent the Office at committees and meetings, and handle escalated student and academic cases.
- Guide and mentor team members, promote cross-training, and support continuity of service during peak periods and staff absences.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the University Registrar.
Key Result Areas and DutiesKRA 1 — Registration and Academic Records Operations (45%)
KRA 2 — Policy Implementation and Compliance (20%)
KRA 3 — Reporting, Planning, and Institutional Effectiveness (20%)
KRA 4 — Deputizing, Team Guidance, and Stakeholder Liaison (15%)
Academic And Professional Qualifications
- * Essential — Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Education, Information Systems, or a related field.
- Desirable — Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Desirable — Professional development in registrar practice, such as AACRAO training or equivalent.
EssentialWork Experience
- * At least 7-8 years of progressive experience in a university Registrar’s Office.
- At least three years of hands-on experience with Ellucian Banner Student, covering registration, academic history, scheduling, and graduation processing.
- Proven experience improving registration processes or services.
Desirable
- Experience at a UAE or GCC institution operating a US-style credit-hour system.
- Familiarity with CAA requirements in a UAE or GCC higher education setting.
Skills And Knowledge
- * Detailed knowledge of registrar operations, including registration, academic records, scheduling, graduation, and transcript issuance.
- Knowledge of US-style academic regulations, including credit hours, academic standing, probation, and graduation requirements.
- Knowledge of MoHESR and CAA requirements relating to student records.
- Advanced Excel skills and the ability to analyze data and prepare reports. SQL skills are desirable.
- Ability to identify operational issues and recommend practical improvements.
- Strong communication and service skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff.
- Ability to coach colleagues, share knowledge, and collaborate across teams.
- Sound judgment, discretion in handling confidential information, and strong attention to detail.
Language Proficiency RequiredProficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English is required. Proficiency in Arabic is desirable.
Working RelationshipsInternal
University Registrar and Office of the Registrar Staff
Deans, Chairs, and Faculty
Admissions and Student Affairs
Finance (Student Accounts)
Information Technology
Institutional Effectiveness and Research
Students
External
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR)
Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA)
Other Universities for Transcript and Credit Verification
Government Entities and Embassies for Document Attestation
Parents and Sponsors
Key BehaviorsService Excellence
Professional Ethics and Integrity
Problem-solving
Time Management
Teamwork
