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• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

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.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

Join a mission-driven team supporting tomorrow’s scientific leaders!

The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Academic Program Coordinator to play a pivotal role in managing and advancing graduate education across six interdisciplinary, research-intensive graduate programs. If you’re passionate about academic excellence, student success, and data-driven program support, we invite you to bring your skills to one of the University’s most dynamic interdisciplinary institutes.

As the Academic Program Coordinator, you will be the cornerstone of graduate program operations—managing student records, coordinating academic milestones, and providing critical support from application through graduation. Your work will directly impact the success of Penn State’s nationally recognized life sciences graduate programs by ensuring compliance, optimizing student experiences, and supporting strategic initiatives.

This role requires outstanding organizational abilities, proactive communication, and a collaborative mindset to thrive in a fast-paced, detail-rich environment. You’ll partner with faculty, administrators, and students to support and continuously improve the academic infrastructure of the Huck Intercollege Graduate Degree Programs (IGDPs).

Key Responsibilities: Following are the key responsibilities of this position:

Student and Records Management:

• Manage student records and academic progress from application to graduation.
• Coordinate with Graduate Enrollment Services, the Thesis Office, and IGDP Chairs to ensure accurate and compliant academic tracking.
• Oversee academic milestones including candidacy and comprehensive exams, defenses, and graduation processes.
• Provide guidance and support to students navigating academic policies.

Academic Program Coordination:

• Lead course scheduling, enrollment management, and academic operations to maintain program integrity and effectiveness.
• Collaborate with faculty on curriculum development, academic assessments, and strategic program reviews.
• Organize key student-facing events such as orientation, recruitment initiatives, and alumni engagement efforts.

Data Systems and Report