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Course Assistant Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Course Assistant information

What is a course assistant?

Course Assistants are individuals, often students, who help instructors with various tasks related to teaching a course. Their responsibilities may include assisting with grading assignments, leading study sessions, answering student questions, and supporting classroom activities. Course Assistants help ensure that courses run smoothly by providing additional support to both instructors and students. They may also gain valuable teaching or leadership experience through their involvement in the course.

How does a course assistant typically collaborate with instructors and students throughout a semester?

Course Assistants play an essential role in bridging communication between instructors and students. They often assist with grading assignments, holding office hours, and facilitating discussion sections or lab sessions. Throughout the semester, Course Assistants work closely with instructors to prepare course materials, address student questions, and help manage classroom logistics. This collaborative environment provides valuable experience in educational support and can also open doors to future teaching or academic opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a course assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Course Assistant, you need strong subject matter knowledge, organizational skills, and often current enrollment or a degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS) such as Canvas or Blackboard, as well as proficiency in office software, is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you effectively support instructors and students. These abilities are crucial for ensuring smooth course operations and a supportive learning environment.

What is the difference between Course Assistant vs Teaching Assistant?

AspectCourse AssistantTeaching Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require college courseworkTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of a college or university program
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, labs, or classroomsClassrooms, labs, or online learning platforms
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, colleges, universitiesPrimarily academic settings, especially in higher education
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in educationClarifying responsibilities and qualifications in academic support

While both roles support educational activities, a Course Assistant typically provides general assistance with coursework and administrative tasks, often requiring less formal education. A Teaching Assistant usually has more instructional responsibilities, often working directly with students under faculty supervision, and often requires enrollment in or recent completion of a college program. Both roles are vital in educational settings but differ in scope and qualifications.

What does a course assistant do?

A course assistant supports instructors by helping with classroom activities, grading assignments, and providing student assistance. They often facilitate discussions, manage course materials, and may hold office hours to address student questions. Strong communication skills and familiarity with educational tools are typically required for this role.

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Course Assistant jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Course Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Course Assistant job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

EPCSE Rehabilitation Human Services Course Assistants

University Park, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

$36K - $46K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education (EPCSE) in the College of Education is seeking individuals to assist with the delivery of course instruction. Individuals hired as Course Assistants will provide technical and classroom management support for instructors to facilitate instruction in these settings. Course Assistants hired through this program will not be expected to deliver content area instruction although content area knowledge is a desired qualification.
Job Duties
Specific responsibilities will vary according to the needs of the course and instructor to which the Course Assistant is assigned. These responsibilities may include:
  • Assist instructor with organizing coursework and explaining course concepts to students.
  • Hold office hours and/or review sessions.
  • Grade homework, papers, examinations, etc. promptly and document grades using established criteria.
  • Other administrative duties related to the course.

Requirements and Qualifications
Desired Qualifications
  • Specialized advanced knowledge in subject areas of Rehabilitation Human Services and Counseling.
  • Collegiate-level teaching experience either as an instructor of record or course Teaching Assistant.
  • Experience working with and using technology in educational settings.
  • Applications must be submitted electronically and include a current resume/curriculum vitae (CV), the names and contact information of two (2) references (professors/past employer), and a cover letter.

Preference will be given to students currently enrolled in one of the EPCSE programs. Applications will be received on an ongoing basis and reviewed as the need arises.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
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.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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.
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