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• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• 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​

The Department of Health Policy and Administration (HPA) in the College of Health and Human Development at the Pennsylvania State University seeks an energetic, innovative, and relationship-driven Programs Specialist to support the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program in both online and residential formats. This role is pivotal in shaping the program’s success through strategic leadership, student engagement, recruitment, and operational excellence. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Management & Strategic Planning 

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth coordination of academic milestones and program goals.
• Collaborate with leadership on strategic initiatives, benchmarking best practices, and driving continuous improvement.
• Develop reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

2. Student Recruitment & Admissions 

• Lead outreach efforts to elevate the visibility of Penn State’s MHA programs.
• Manage the full admissions cycle, including applicant evaluation, recruitment, and enrollment.
• Represent the program at career fairs, conferences, symposiums, and webinars.

3. Student Advising & Career Development 

• Advise working professionals in the online program and early-career students in the residential program.
• Address student concerns, mediate performance issues, and support academic success.

4. Stakeholder Engagement & Alumni Relations 

• Cultivate relationships with students, alumni, faculty, the Board of Visitors, and healthcare industry leaders.
• Strengthen partnerships with Outreach and World Campus to enhance program reach.

5. Marketing & Digital Presence 

• Manage program-specific social media (LinkedIn, etc.) to engage prospective and current students.
• Develop content that highlights program strengths and student success stories.

Qualifications:

Required: 

• Background in healthcare administration, public health, or social services (preferably in administration, strategic planning, or quality improvement).
• Strong knowledge of healthcare delivery systems, policy, and program evaluation.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Master’s degree in a related field (e.g., MHA, MPH, MBA).
• Experience in higher education administration, student advising, or recruitment.

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

 

Flexible Work Arrangements:

This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Application Instructions:

For full consideration, applicants must include a cover letter and resume with their application. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

 

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 $56,200.00 - $81,500.00.

 

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.

The Pennsylvania State University 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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