If your primary functional role is academic advising, this page brings together the policies, process steps, and tools you need for reappointment and promotion.
What is an Academic Specialist?
Academic Specialists at MSU are non-tenure system academic staff with defined appointment types and tracks, designated as Fixed-Term or Continuing System Specialists. For specialists whose primary functional role is academic advising, the work centers on holistic student support, academic planning, progress monitoring, referrals, and contribution to student success initiatives. Typical responsibilities may include advising caseload management, orientation and outreach, collaboration with academic units and campus partners, assessment of advising outcomes, and participation in professional development related to advising. Reappointment and promotion recognize sustained effectiveness, contributions to advising practice, leadership/service, and scholarship.
Criteria and timelines vary slightly by unit; always confirm unit-level expectations in addition to university policy. Use the tools below to navigate reappointment and promotion processes.
Gather Your Resources
Preparing for reappointment and promotion can feel complex, but a range of resources are available to help academic advisors navigate each step. Explore the interactive Reappointment and Promotion Guide for a step-by-step overview of each process, access checklists to organize your materials, and connect with key contacts who can provide guidance specific to your unit or college. Whether you’re beginning your first review cycle or entering your second review (continuing system), or preparing for promotion to senior specialist (fixed-term and continuing system), these tools are designed to support you in documenting your accomplishments, planning effectively, and showcasing your contributions.
Academic Specialist Handbook
The Academic Specialist Handbook outlines official MSU policies, appointment types, expectations, and procedures for Academic Specialists.
Reappointment and Promotion Interactive Guide for Academic Advisors
This step-by-step tool walks you through the R&P process, timelines, and required materials.
Form on Progress and Excellence
Download the fillable document that will summarize your achievements, goals, and impact.
Dossier Checklist
Access a detailed checklist to help you gather and organize all required materials.
Major Administrative Unit (MAU) Points of Contact
View a directory of college or unit representatives who can provide specific R&P guidance.
MAU/Unit Search Tool
Use the Unit Search to look up a specific unit based on its 8-character org code or name. Results show unit's org code, type (MAU, U1, or U2), and name.
Building Your Professional Network
Developing strong professional relationships within and beyond Michigan State University can help you expand your network, increase collaboration opportunities, and gain valuable support for future career advancement, including obtaining external letters for second reappointment or promotion to senior specialist. Click on the button below to explore ways to expand your network both on campus and outside of MSU, along with relationship-building strategies.
Reappointment and Promotion Preparation Session for Academic Advisors
The October 2025 Reappointment and Promotion Preparation Session for Academic Specialists in Advising offered an overview of the reappointment and promotion process, including timelines, dossier preparation, and strategies for documenting advising accomplishments, leadership, and professional development. Presenters shared unit-level expectations, timelines, and practical tips to help advisors strengthen their materials and approach the process with confidence.
If you were unable to attend or need a refresher, please watch the video below.