Pennsylvania State University is seeking an Academic Program Coordinator for its Education Policy Studies Department. This role ensures smooth academic operations by supporting faculty, staff, and students, managing procedures and records, and coordinating program events. The position works independently on complex projects and serves as a key liaison with university offices.

What You'll Do

Maintain and update student records, tracking academic progress and milestones.
Assist with course scheduling, academic procedures, and resolving student issues.
Monitor degree progress and manage academic forms.
Process and track applications for multiple graduate programs and certificates.
Organize applicant files and support Graduate Admissions Committees.
Communicate with prospective students and manage admissions decisions in GRADS.
Serve as first point of contact for students, faculty, and visitors.
Provide logistical and administrative support to faculty and department leadership.
Manage course scheduling, room bookings, and departmental communications.
Submit exam results and committee forms; schedule key doctoral milestones.
Ensure accurate transcript records and graduation lists.
Maintain Scholarship and Research Integrity compliance and coordinate with Global Programs for international students.
Prepare and track documents for tenure, sabbatical, and promotion reviews.
Guide faculty through procedures to ensure timely and compliant submissions.
Schedule career conferences and maintain confidentiality throughout the process.
Plan and coordinate recruitment, orientation, celebrations, and academic events.
Manage speaker series and graduate research showcases.
Process purchasing transactions and collaborate on endowment-related finances.
Develop, update, and maintain program resources, such as handbooks, website information, and databases.

What We're Looking For

General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS)
2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Nice to Have

Experience with Microsoft Office 365, SAP Concur, and Activity Insight
Experience with iTwo (web-based tool for data access, analysis, and distribution)
Experience with LionPATH (Penn State’s student information system)
Experience with Penn State’s Graduate Admissions Decision System (GRADS)
Excellent communication (both verbal and written), interpersonal, and attention to detail skills

Technical Stack

Microsoft Office 365
SAP Concur
Activity Insight
iTwo
LionPATH
GRADS (Graduate Admissions Decision System)

Team & Environment

Reports to the Administrative Support Manager in the Department of Education Policy Studies.

Benefits & Compensation

Salary: $38,300.00 - $55,500.00
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Robust retirement plans
Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation and sick time
Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children

Work Mode

This role follows a hybrid work mode and is located in Pennsylvania.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer 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.