Policies, Handbooks & Procedures

Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs

The University has a number of policies and procedures that provide guidance to assure the fair and equitable treatment of members of the Penn community. The policies and handbooks listed below provide useful information in understanding the rights and responsibilities of members of our community. Equal Opportunity And Affirmative Action Policy (PDF).

The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status in the administration of its admissions, financial aid, educational or athletic programs, or other University-administered programs or in its employment practices. Questions or complaints regarding this policy should be directed to the Executive Director of the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, Franklin Building,  3451 Walnut Street, Suite 421, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6106; or (215) 898-6993.

RESOLVED, that the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania adopt in principal and practice the following statement on diversity:

Penn rejoices in the rich diversity of persons, groups, views, and academic disciplines and programs that grace the campus of the nation's first university. Tapping our diversity to strengthen ties across all boundaries enriches the intellectual climate and creates a more vibrant community. Fostering and nourishing this diversity, especially among students, faculty, staff, and trustees must remain central to the core missions of the University.

Penn's Procedures, Policies and Handbooks provide guidance for fair and consistent treatment of everyone within the Penn community. The listing provides useful information in understanding the core mission that we strive to maintain here at Penn as reflected in the Penn Compact.

University-wide Policies, Procedures and Protocols

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend, modify, or rescind any policy and to create new policies and procedures at its sole discretion.

Selected Handbooks, Manuals and Guides

See links and downloadable PDF files listed below.

  1. OAA•EOP

    • Hiring and Recruitment A resource for hiring officials that guides them through the recruitment and selection process. Please note that your Pennkey is needed to access this manual.
    • Staff Affirmative Action Compliance Officers Handbook (PDF) As Staff Affirmative Action Compliance Officers, you play an important role in monitoring compliance with and disseminating information about Penn's affirmative action policies and procedures. Together, we can help ensure that search, selection and other employment activities fulfill the letter and spirit of the University's commitment to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. This manual is designed to provide guidance regarding your responsibilities, compliance procedures, search and selection processes, affirmative action and equal opportunity regulations and related areas.
    • Staff Affirmative Action Compliance Officers Listing (PDF)

  2. Faculty

  3. Staff

  4. Students

    • Pennbook Handbook for students regarding most of the University policies, procedures, and University resources.
    • Graduate Student Center Resource Guide Provides descriptions of all the resources available to graduate and professional students on Penn's campus.