What to Know About Brenau University's Director of Admissions Role for 2025–2026

Brenau University is hiring a Director of Admissions for the 2025–2026 academic year

Brenau University, a private institution in Gainesville, Georgia, has announced an open position for Director of Admissions. This is an executive-level appointment responsible for leading the university's recruitment and admissions operations. The role reports to the Vice President for Enrollment Management and shapes how prospective students experience the university from first contact through enrollment.

The position oversees admissions staff, manages recruitment strategy across undergraduate and graduate programs, and sets policies for how applications are reviewed and processed. It is a leadership role that combines strategic planning with day-to-day management of the admissions office.

Key Takeaways

• The Director of Admissions is a senior staff position at Brenau University reporting to the Vice President for Enrollment Management.
• The role involves leading recruitment efforts, managing admissions staff, and overseeing application processing for all university programs.
• This is a full-time position beginning in the 2025–2026 academic year, with the formal job posting available through Brenau's careers page.
• Candidates typically hold a master's degree and have prior experience in higher education admissions or enrollment management.
• The application process includes submission of a resume, cover letter, and references through the university's official hiring portal.

What the Director of Admissions does at Brenau

The Director of Admissions leads all aspects of student recruitment and admissions operations. This includes developing recruitment plans, managing the admissions budget, overseeing staff who review applications, and representing the university at college fairs and recruitment events.

The role also involves setting admissions standards, interpreting institutional policy, and making decisions about how applications are evaluated. The director works closely with other departments—financial aid, student services, academic programs—to ensure a coordinated experience for prospective students.

At Brenau specifically, the director manages admissions for both the main campus in Gainesville and the university's online and distance learning programs, which serve students across multiple states.

Typical qualifications and experience required

Brenau generally seeks candidates with a master's degree in higher education, business administration, or a related field. A bachelor's degree with substantial relevant experience may be considered depending on the candidate's background.

Most candidates have five to ten years of experience in higher education admissions, enrollment management, or a closely related area. This might include work as an admissions counselor, assistant director, or in a similar role at another college or university.

The position also requires strong communication skills, experience managing budgets and staff, and familiarity with admissions software systems and data analysis. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of current trends in higher education recruitment and enrollment.

How to find the job posting and apply

The official job posting appears on Brenau University's careers page, accessible through brenau.edu. Search for "Director of Admissions" or browse open positions under the Enrollment Management or Academic Affairs department.

The posting includes the full job description, required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and salary range (which varies based on experience). It also lists the application deadline and the expected start date.

To apply, you will need to create an account on Brenau's hiring portal and submit your resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references. Some positions may request additional materials such as a statement of philosophy or a writing sample.

The interview and selection process

Candidates who meet the posted requirements typically move to a phone or video screening with the hiring manager or a member of the search committee. This initial conversation usually covers your background, your approach to admissions and recruitment, and your interest in Brenau specifically.

Finalists are usually invited for an in-person or extended video interview with the full search committee, which may include the Vice President for Enrollment Management, other senior staff, and possibly faculty or student representatives. You may be asked to present on a topic related to admissions strategy or to respond to a scenario.

The final stage often involves a campus visit, a meeting with the Vice President for Enrollment Management, and sometimes a conversation with current admissions staff. Reference checks typically occur after a verbal offer is made.

Timeline and start date

The position is open for the 2025–2026 academic year, which typically begins in August 2025. The job posting will specify an application deadline, which is usually several months before the start date to allow time for the search and interview process.

Most universities complete hiring for senior positions like this between January and April, though timelines vary. If you are interested, check the posting for the specific deadline and plan to submit materials well before that date.

Questions to ask during the interview

If you advance to an interview, consider asking about the university's enrollment goals, the size and structure of the admissions team, the budget you would manage, and the priorities the Vice President for Enrollment Management has set for the role. You might also ask about the university's recruitment challenges, how success in the position is measured, and what support is available for professional development.

These questions show you have thought seriously about the role and help you determine whether the position is a good fit for your career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find the official job posting?

Visit brenau.edu and navigate to the careers or employment section. Search for "Director of Admissions" or filter by the Enrollment Management department. The full posting includes the job description, qualifications, and application instructions.

What should I include in my cover letter?

Address your relevant experience in admissions or enrollment management, your understanding of Brenau's mission and programs, and your vision for recruitment strategy. Be specific about accomplishments—for example, enrollment growth you helped achieve or initiatives you led—rather than general statements about your interest in higher education.

Do I need a master's degree to apply?

Most positions require a master's degree, but the posting may state that a bachelor's degree with significant relevant experience is acceptable. Read the qualifications section carefully. If you have a bachelor's degree and substantial admissions experience, you can still apply and let the hiring committee decide.

How long does the hiring process usually take?

From application deadline to job offer typically takes two to four months, depending on the number of candidates and the search committee's schedule. The posting will indicate the expected start date and application deadline, which gives you a sense of the timeline.

Can I contact Brenau with questions about the position before applying?

Yes. The job posting usually lists a contact person or department email. Reaching out with clarifying questions about the role, qualifications, or application process shows genuine interest and can help you decide whether to apply.