UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Ensuring faculty and staff have opportunities to continually build upon their skills and knowledge is just one example of why Penn State is named one of the world’s top universities year after year. The University prides itself on offering a robust selection of professional development for its employees.
“The growth opportunities here at Penn State are limitless,” said Megan Houser, human resources consultant for the College of Education. “I would encourage everyone to take advantage of the various learning opportunities we have at our fingertips so they can continue to grow.”
By visiting the Office of Human Resources website, employees can access the Center for Workplace Learning and Performance, the central hub for professional development offered by the University. Online training and tutorials are available to employees at no charge through Skillsoft, Penn State’s online learning resource network, and membership sites such as Lynda.com.
“Information Technology Services routinely offers training for our faculty and staff that ranges from how to use software such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Suite to using University management systems such as Canvas or IBIS,” Houser said. ITS also provides personalized, one-on-one training for faculty and staff with tech tutors.
In addition to training geared toward specific skills, Penn State also offers various programs to develop leaders and supervisors.
“The University offers four certificate programs — Penn State Emerging Leaders; Excellence in Management; Supervision Series; and Administrative Professional Series,” Houser said, adding that these programs provide in-depth trainings delivered over multiple sessions throughout the year.
Faculty and staff also may enroll in Penn State courses and take advantage of the 75 percent tuition discount the University offers.
“We have a lot of learning opportunities for our faculty and staff, the majority of which is available at no fee for the employee,” Houser said. “It’s really amazing the amount of learning experiences we have at our fingertips.”
To learn more about professional development and training options available through the University, visit ohr.psu.edu/learning. For a detailed list of opportunities for faculty and staff, including volunteer opportunities, visit wlg.psu.edu.