University Resources

There are a number of Departments at Penn that provide resources and support to members of the off-campus student community. 

On-Campus Housing and Home Ownership

Department of Residential Services

This department works closely with partner departments to support on-campus residents in their academic endeavors, personal growth and day-to-day life on campus. 

Penn Home Ownership Services

This office offers eligible employees the opportunity to apply for financing for home purchases, as well as rehabilitation, in the West Philadelphia neighborhood. The office also offers refinancing options with lending partners, home improvement grants, loans, educational workshops and a variety of other resources.

Safety and Emergency Services

Division of Public Safety

The Division of Public Safety (DPS) maintains a positive and collaborative working relationship with the many safety, security and law enforcement agencies which benefit the overall safety of Penn and the University City Community. DPS offers a number of safety support structures that both on- and off-campus students can utilize.

Fire and Emergency Services

Under the umbrella of DPS, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services conducts routine inspections of buildings and fire alarms, supervises mandatory evacuation drills on campus and coordinates other safety procedures. FES maintains an active partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Departments of Licenses and Inspections.

Student Crisis Resources

Student Intervention Services (SIS)

The SIS team assists the University community in handling emergencies or critical incidents involving the welfare and safety of students. SIS works closely with the Offices of Counseling and Psychology Services, the Chaplain’s office and Special Services in the Division of Public Safety to effectively manage critical incidents.

Office of Student Conduct

The Office of Student Conduct  (OCS) is responsible for acting on behalf of the University in matters of student discipline. Academic dishonesty and other student misconduct are instances in which OSC would become involved and determine the best course of action in resolving conflict.

Office of Alcohol and Other Drug Program Initiatives

 The mission of the Office of Alcohol and Other Drug Program Initiatives (AOD) is to reduce harm related to alcohol and other drug use at the University of Pennsylvania.  Key efforts spearheaded by this office focus on education, prevention and confidential, non-judgmental brief interventions for both individual Penn students and student groups. 

Graduate Student Life

Graduate Student Center

The Graduate Student Center is a resource that provides social and academic programs to build community between members of Penn’s twelve schools and the various graduate programs therein.

The Graduate Center also offers a Family Center

Penn Children’s Center

Located on Penn’s campus, the Penn Children’s Center offers an individually centered, play-based curriculum for infants through pre-school age children.

Dining Options

Penn Dining

Penn Dining offers dining plan options for faculty, staff and students. Many members of the Penn Community who live off campus get a dining plan for use while on campus. Dining plan holders get a 5% discount at select dining locations on campus as well as access to the campus registered dietitian for assistance with dietary and nutritional issues.