Substance Use

Through our SUPER Program (Substance Use, Prevention, Education, and Recovery), Wellness at Penn provides harm reduction strategies related to substance use at the University of Pennsylvania. Key efforts focus on education, prevention, and confidential, non-judgmental brief interventions for both individual Penn students and student groups. In accordance with this mission, Wellness oversees policies, environmental management efforts, and education programs that encourage a safe and healthy campus environment for students.

Key Substance Use Policies

  • As incoming students, it is vital you are aware of key substance use policies on Penn's campus. You can view all of Penn's substance use policies by following this link.

Smoke-Free Campus

  • It is the policy of the University of Pennsylvania that all smoking and tobacco use (including the use of smokeless tobacco) is prohibited in all University buildings and facilities, including but not limited to any meeting rooms, community areas, performance venues, and private residential space within University of Pennsylvania housing.
  • The tobacco policy covers all smoking methods, including but not limited to the use of electronic smoking devices (vapes, juuls, e-cigarettes, etc.) and hookah-smoked products.

Cannabis

  • As a federally funded campus, cannabis is strictly prohibited on Penn's campus, regardless of its legal status in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. This includes, but is not limited to, possession and use in college houses.

Medical Amnesty

  • In cases of intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning, the primary concern is the health and safety of the individuals involved. Individuals are strongly encouraged to call for medical assistance for themselves or for a friend/acquaintance who is dangerously intoxicated.
  • No student seeking medical treatment for substance use-related overdose will be subject to University discipline for the sole violation of using or possessing alcohol or drugs. This policy extends to another student seeking help for the intoxicated student.
  • If you or a friend needs medical attention, please call our Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) at 215-573-3333.

Substance Use Education

  • Below are a series of videos designed to assist first-year students to better understand the student experience and become more aware of health services and resources available.