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Associate Director, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Advertiser: Philosophy, Politics and Economics Program, University of Pennsylvania
Field(s) of specialization: Any field
Position type(s): Other nonacademic
Location of job: 249 S 36th Street, 311 Claudia Cohen Hall, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Degree required: Masters
Job start date: 2027-01-04
Job duration: Continuing/permanent
Application deadline: 30 Sep 2026 midnight UTC (accepting applications)
Posting end date: 30 Sep 2026
Ad text:

The Associate Director for the Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) program serves as the primary point of contact and foundational support system for undergraduate students, faculty, and campus partners. This role involves high-impact student advising with critical administrative, curricular, and program management responsibilities within the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS).

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary academic advisor for all undergraduate students majoring or interested in PPE. Provide comprehensive guidance on degree requirements, concentration course approvals, study abroad, and academic progress. Support student success by identifying at-risk students and connecting them to campus resources. Manage student records, track graduation timelines, and clear students for graduation.
  • Partner with the Faculty Director to develop the annual program budget. Collaborate on strategic curricular planning and draft the end-of-year program report.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to develop, strengthen, and maintain PPE-specific relationships. Work across departments to expand interdisciplinary course offerings and unique student opportunities (e.g., internships, research, networking events). Represent the PPE program across broader university networks to increase program visibility.
  • Assist PPE faculty and postdoctoral fellows with course design, navigating institutional resources, and professional development opportunities. Serve as a bridge between faculty and student needs, facilitating communications regarding accommodations or academic integrity. Prepare agendas for regular PPE faculty meetings.
  • Represent the PPE program at monthly Undergraduate Council meetings, major advisor/coordinator meetings, and other SAS-level administrative briefings. Actively participate in and support PPE program events, including graduation celebrations, info sessions, and socials.
  • Assist with miscellaneous program needs and special projects as assigned by the Faculty Director.

Qualifications

  • Master's degree and 1 to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. PhD in PPE-related disciplines, including psychology, is strongly preferred, as is an interdisciplinary research background related to PPE.
  • Experience in academic advising preferred.
  • Must have the ability to communicate with a diverse population and across all levels of the organization.
  • Strong verbal communication skills required.
  • Must also demonstrate excellent writing and editing skills.
  • Previous experience working with international non-profit programs and organizations and grants preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, ability to work independently, strong initiative and ability to develop programs essential.
  • Previous budget management and fund-raising experience a plus.
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