Academic Program Coordinator, Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
About the role
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is seeking an Academic Program Coordinator to join our team in a critical administrative role supporting graduate academic programs. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with students, faculty, and academic leaders while contributing to the success of residential, online, and hybrid graduate programs. As the primary administrative support for graduate education, the Academic Program Coordinator plays an essential role in helping students navigate key academic milestones while ensuring the smooth operation of graduate programs.
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, managing scheduling, communications, documentation, approvals, and related logistics.
- Monitor student academic progress and degree requirements by tracking milestones, maintaining benchmark records, and reviewing graduation eligibility.
- Communicate with graduate students regarding 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 point of contact for prospective graduate students.
- Maintain student and program records, databases, advising folders, tracking spreadsheets, and academic documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for graduate students, providing guidance on registration, advising, academic policies, and program requirements.
- Support course enrollment management through registration assistance, enrollment adjustments, overrides, course permissions, and exception processing.
- Coordinate academic meetings, special events, seminars and activities, including arrangements for facilities, supplies, technology and food service.
- Provide logistical support for residential, online, and hybrid programs through classroom scheduling, room reservations, Zoom administration, and multi-campus coordination.
- Collaborate regularly with Graduate Enrollment Services, faculty, and other university offices to support graduate education operations.
Qualifications
- Excellent interpersonal skills; inclusive and respectful when working with and supporting others
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Outstanding organizational skills and a proven record of reliable, timely task completion
- Driven to provide excellent customer service
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Word and Excel is preferred
Requirements
This position may be filled at one of two levels, with the following minimum requirements:
Academic Program Coordinator – Intermediate Support:
- General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School diploma
- 2+ years of relevant experience (relevant education accepted in lieu of experience)
- Required certifications: None
Academic Program Coordinator – Support:
- General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School diploma
- No prior relevant work experience required
- Required certifications: None
Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
Additional information
In addition to Microsoft 365 and LionPATH (Penn State’s student information system), the Academic Program Coordinator will work with various software including:
- SAP Concur / Employee Reimbursement System (ERS)
- iTwo (web-based Penn State tool used for data access, analysis, and distribution)
- Penn State’s Graduate Admissions Decision System (GRADS)
- 25Live by CollegeNet (scheduling platform)
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing 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.
Schedule
This position requires a minimum of three days per week of on-site work at the designated work location. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.
Pay
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $36,888.00 – $58,836.00.
Benefits
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.
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.