Academic Program Coordinator, Education Policy Studies

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 41,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Competitive benefits

Job summary

Penn State University’s Education Policy Studies (EPS) Department seeks an Academic Program Coordinator to coordinate academic programs, support student success, and engage with faculty and staff.

The role includes managing databases, transcripts, scheduling, internships, and events. Minimum education is a GED/HS with 2+ years relevant experience. On-site at University Park with potential flexible work per unit needs.

Qualifications

• GED or HS requirement with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Strong interpersonal skills and respectful collaboration.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with high attention to detail.
• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment in a dynamic academic setting.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate student support services and maintain program databases.
• Assist with course scheduling, transcripts, and internship processes.
• Plan information sessions and support internship-related courses.
• Serve as the first point of contact for students, faculty, and visitors.
• Manage scheduling, room bookings, and department communications.
• Develop and maintain program resources like handbooks and website information.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal skills

Task management

Organization

Written & verbal communication

Independent judgment

Education

GED or HS diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

SAP Concur

iTwo

LionPATH

GRADS

Activity Insight

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Education Policy Studies (EPS) Department seeks to hire an Academic Program Coordinator to provide essential coordination and administrative support for the department's academic programs and initiatives.

As a key member of the department, this position coordinates academic and administrative operations, supports student success initiatives, partners closely with faculty and staff, and oversees program events and engagement activities.

The Academic Program Coordinator helps enhance the student experience and support the continued success of the department's programs.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Student Support Service

• Create and maintain databases (e.g., of each program’s alumni)
• Maintain and update student records, tracking academic progress and milestones
• Ensure accurate transcript records and graduation lists
• Assist with course scheduling, academic procedures, and resolving student issues; manage academic forms
• Plan an information session for students about internships
• Assist instructors who teach internship-related courses
• Facilitate the application process for internships; document completion of internships

Administrative Support

• Serve as first point of contact for students, faculty, and visitors
• Provide logistical and administrative support to faculty and department leadership; assist in preparations for informational webinars
• Manage course scheduling, room bookings, and departmental communications
• Assist with exit interviews and surveys graduating students are asked to complete
• Communicate with prospective students and coordinate with faculty and other staff who are also helping with student recruitment
• Develop, update, and maintain program resources, such as handbooks and website information

Event Coordination

• Plan and coordinate student recruitment, orientation, celebrations, and academic events for EPS degree programs
• Manage speaker series and undergraduate research showcases
• Schedule presentation events and informational sessions; assist with event promotions

Qualifications

• Driven to provide excellent customer service
• Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with others
• Proven record of reliable, timely task completion
• Ability to stay organized with a high attention to detail and accuracy while multi-tasking
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic academic environment.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

Important Application Instructions

Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.

Additional Information

The College of Education is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Important Note

In accordance with College guidelines, this position requires a minimum of three days per week of on-site work at the designated work location.

After training, the Academic Program Coordinator will also work with various software including Microsoft Office 365, SAP Concur, and Activity Insight, as well as the following which are specific to Penn State:

• iTwo (web-based tool used for data access, analysis, and distribution)
• LionPATH (Penn State’s student information system)
• Penn State’s Graduate Admissions Decision System (GRADS)

Activity Insight is used to assist faculty members with collecting, organizing, and displaying data.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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