Program Manager of Study Abroad Outreach & Operations
Posted on October 24, 2025
Louisiana State University (LSU) is a world-renowned public research university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement, LSU is dedicated to fostering educational opportunities and preparing students to become global citizens. As part of its initiatives to expand international education, LSU's Office of Global Engagement plays a pivotal role in promoting study abroad programs, facilitating cross-cultural experiences, and enhancing the university's global connections. The Office of Global Engagement, particularly the Study Abroad Program under the leadership of the Director of Study Abroad, strives to maximize student participation in international education through outreach, events, and operational excellence.
The Program Manager of Study Abroad Outreach & Operations is an essential professional role within LSU’s Office of Global Engagement. This position is classified as Professional/Unclassified within the LSU pay grade system and operates primarily from William B. Hatcher Hall in Baton Rouge. The Program Manager will work in close collaboration with faculty, administrative staff, student groups, and external international partners to promote and manage various facets of the study abroad experience. The position emphasizes fostering global opportunities for students by planning and executing outreach events, managing the Terra Dotta study abroad software system, and streamlining processes that support student participation abroad.
The core responsibility of this role is to coordinate study abroad outreach and event programming, which includes organizing fairs, information sessions, orientations, re-entry workshops, and recognition ceremonies. The individual will handle all logistics surrounding these events such as scheduling, venue arrangements, vendor negotiations, catering, technology support, and staffing. Working closely with the Director, the Program Manager will develop budgets, timelines, as well as marketing strategies that leverage print, digital, email, and social media platforms to ensure broad and effective communication. Another critical aspect is the administration of the Terra Dotta system, where the manager will oversee system configuration, user roles, security settings, and manage data integrity, ensuring compliance with institutional and FERPA policies.
Beyond operations, the role involves developing application processes including student forms, managing pre-departure requirements, and generating necessary reports and surveys. The Program Manager also serves as a leader in training staff and students on Terra Dotta and study abroad procedural best practices while collaborating with multiple LSU departments to maintain accurate program listings and ensure documentation consistency. The manager will represent the Study Abroad program in various committee meetings and relevant professional events, maintaining current knowledge of international education trends and Terra Dotta enhancements through continuous professional development.
Applicants are encouraged to have at least a bachelor's degree with three years of related experience, especially with Terra Dotta system administration and integration, as well as proven experience in collaborative roles with faculty and campus partners. While a degree is valued, LSU places equal importance on relevant experience, welcoming candidates who meet experience requirements without formal degrees. Preferred candidates will have a master’s degree and extensive experience in international education, study abroad advising, event programming, and cross-cultural communication.
This position requires excellent analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with capability to manage multiple priorities effectively and maintain meticulous attention to detail. LSU values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer, offering comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, paid holidays, wellness initiatives, tuition benefits, and professional development opportunities. The role is subject to a background check and requires valid U.S. work authorization, though it is not eligible for H1B sponsorship.
                - Bachelor's degree with three years of related experience
 - Experience with Terra Dotta system administration and integration
 - Proven record of collaboration with faculty and campus partners
 - Valid U.S. work authorization at time of hire
 - Ability to attend professional international education conference or site visit annually
 - Compliance with institutional policies and FERPA
 - Successful completion of pre-employment background check