About Penn GSE

At the Penn Graduate School of Education (Penn GSE), we believe in the power of education. We believe there is no greater force for building communities, bridging barriers, improving lives, and healing society. We bring our ideas, our identities, our ambition, and our commitment to a place where a diverse network of researchers, educators, counselors, leaders, and changemakers is unafraid to question what it means to educate.

Discover our mission and vision at the Penn GSE homepage, and explore career opportunities and generous benefits at Careers at Penn.

GSE Hiring Processes 

GSE hiring managers, please visit this page on the process for hiring regular staff to learn more. For all other hiring procedures, visit the Payroll and Compensation page.

Important Note for All Hires

Background Checks for Individuals in Direct Contact with Minors

As of January 1, 2020, all university faculty, staff, postdocs, temporary and student workers, and volunteers who will have direct contact with children in connection with university activities are required to complete a three-part background check before beginning employment:

• Pennsylvania State Police Search (PATCH)
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
• FBI Criminal History Record

Previously, employees could begin work on a provisional basis after completing the two state-required clearances (PATCH and PA Child Abuse) and submitting the FBI check receipt. However, due to ACT 47 of 2019, provisional employment is no longer allowed.

This policy ensures all individuals working with minors fully meet state and federal requirements from the start, enhancing safety in environments where children are present.

For those working with minors, please reach out to your GSE payroll team contact to initiate the process. Protecting Minors Policy.