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.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Pennsylvania State University, a leading public research University, is seeking applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the University College for the Commonwealth Campuses. Penn State’s Commonwealth campuses serve a diverse student population of 30,000 and employ more than 7,500 full and part-time employees, including 2,600 faculty. The Dean of the University College reports directly to the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses and Executive Chancellor (VPEC) and is a senior member of the VPEC’s leadership team. The University College is the academic home to a portfolio of associate and baccalaureate degree programs, certificate and workforce development programs, and provides the first two years to the breadth of Penn State’s undergraduate programs across all campuses offering undergraduate degrees. This multidisciplinary college spans fourteen campuses through 2027 and afterwards seven campuses.
The successful candidate will be responsible for all matters related to promotion tenure for the member campuses of the University College and will provide leadership in strategic academic development. This position will work closely with chancellors and campus leaders, faculty, staff and others in establishing an academic and strategic vision that will advance the mission of the institution. The successful candidate will provide guidance and leadership to the University College leaders and others on a wide range of faculty issues related to academic and faculty affairs and have responsibility over program quality, assessment of curriculum and instruction, faculty support, budgeting and fiscal management, new program development, student enrollment, retention, and success. The position will liaise with central University offices on matters of curricular affairs, and with academic leaders across the Commonwealth campuses. The successful incumbent will also lead curricular and faculty support services and initiatives during the transition and wind-down period at closing campuses.
Candidates for this position should possess credentials appropriate for a tenured appointment at the rank of professor and have a minimum of five years of academic administrative experience in a higher education environment. Other essential skills include a broad knowledge of major issues within higher education, an exceptional level of intellect, collegiality, integrity, creativity, a strong commitment to inclusivity and belonging. Excellent leadership, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills are essential. Other essential skills include a broad knowledge of major issues within higher education and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and successfully with others in a complex academic organization. This is a 48-week academic administrator appointment.
Review of applications will begin November 17, 2025 and will 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. Due to the financial and fiduciary responsibilities of this position, successful completion of a credit history check will be required in addition to standard background checks. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.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.