Academic Program Coordinator, Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
About The Position
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is seeking an Academic Program Coordinator to provide primary administrative support for graduate academic programs. The role supports residential, online, and hybrid programs and works closely with students, faculty, academic leaders, Graduate Enrollment Services, and other university offices. The coordinator helps students navigate academic milestones and supports the effective operation of graduate education programs. Depending on the appointment level, the position requires a high school diploma or GED and either no prior relevant work experience or at least two years of relevant experience; relevant education may substitute for experience for the intermediate support level. The role requires at least three days per week of on-site work. Flexible work arrangements may be considered when compatible with unit needs and essential duties, but are not guaranteed.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- For the Academic Program Coordinator - Intermediate Support level: at least two years of relevant experience; relevant education may be accepted in lieu of experience.
- For the Academic Program Coordinator - Support level: no prior relevant work experience is required.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and an inclusive, respectful approach when working with and supporting others.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Outstanding organizational skills and a proven record of reliable, timely task completion.
- Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
- Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
- Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; Penn State does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of a staff employment visa.
Nice To Haves
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Word and Excel.
- Experience with LionPATH, SAP Concur / Employee Reimbursement System (ERS), iTwo, GRADS, or 25Live by CollegeNet.
Responsibilities
- Build and manage course schedules in LionPATH, including course setup, classroom reservations, and Zoom scheduling for residential, online, and hybrid courses.
- Coordinate doctoral examinations and dissertation defenses, including scheduling, communications, documentation, approvals, and logistics.
- Monitor student academic progress and degree requirements by tracking milestones, maintaining benchmark records, and reviewing graduation eligibility.
- Communicate with graduate students about registration, academic requirements, policies, procedures, deadlines, and graduation processes.
- Prepare and process reports, graduate assistantship appointments, offer letters, contracts, salary assignments, and related administrative documentation.
- Coordinate graduate admissions activities and serve as a primary contact for prospective graduate students.
- Maintain accurate and compliant student and program records, databases, advising folders, tracking spreadsheets, and academic documentation.
- Provide graduate students with guidance on registration, advising, academic policies, and program requirements.
- Support course enrollment through registration assistance, enrollment adjustments, overrides, course permissions, and exception processing.
- Coordinate academic meetings, special events, seminars, and activities, including facilities, supplies, technology, and food service arrangements.
- Provide logistical support for residential, online, and hybrid programs, including classroom scheduling, room reservations, Zoom administration, and multi-campus coordination.
- Collaborate with Graduate Enrollment Services, faculty, and other university offices to support graduate education operations.
- Independently resolve routine and moderately complex academic and administrative issues, exercising judgment on registration, graduation, student records, and academic procedures.
- Participate in cross-training with other Academic Program Coordinators to support collaboration, skill development, and operational flexibility.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement plans.
- Paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick time.
- 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
