To continue to expand support for the professional development of our graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, the Graduate College has subscribed to two new professional development platform, Beyond the Professoriate and Beyond Graduate School. Both of these sites include a variety of professional development resources that are accessible on demand. They also periodically host and records webinars on a wide range of topics ranging from publishing academic articles to developing your LinkedIn network. 

What Is Beyond the Professoriate?

Beyond the Professoriate is a online professional development training platform. It caters not only to PhD holders who are interested in preparing for both academic and non-academic job searches. Informed by nearly a decade of experience in the graduate career development space, this platform equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to transition successfully into academic or nonacademic careers.

Key Features:

1. Tailored Career Support: Beyond the Professoriate provides personalized career guidance based on your interests and goals. Whether you’re exploring diverse career options or seeking advice on job searches, this platform has you covered.
2. Structured Programming: The platform offers multiple pathways to help you meet a range of career goals. From discovering your values to articulating your transferable skills, you’ll find structured curricula to guide you through the process.
3. Hear from the Experts: In addition to the expertise that informs all of the resources on this site, Beyond the Professoriate also features a library of PhD-holders who have gone to work in a wide range of career pathways. You can learn directly from people who share your educational background and who work in the types of jobs that you are most interested in exploring.  

What Is Beyond Graduate School?

While Beyond the Professoriate caters to PhDs, Beyond Graduate School focuses specifically on master’s students. It recognizes that master’s graduates also face unique career challenges and need targeted support.

Key Benefits:

1. Career Exploration: Beyond Graduate School helps master’s students explore diverse career paths. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s in engineering, business, or the humanities, this platform guides you toward meaningful options.
2. Skills Articulation: Master’s students often possess valuable skills but struggle to articulate them. Beyond Graduate School assists in translating your academic expertise into language that resonates with employers.
3. Maximizing Investment: Your education is an investment. This platform ensures you make the most of it by connecting your skills to real-world opportunities.

How to Make the Most of These Platforms

• Self-Assessment: Reflect on your interests, values, and skills. Use the platforms to explore career paths aligned with your strengths.
• Structured Learning: Dive into the curated content. Learn about job search strategies, networking, and industry-specific insights.
• Network Building: Connect with fellow graduate students, alumni, and professionals. Attend webinars and virtual events.

Beyond the Professoriate and Beyond Graduate School are more than platforms—they’re bridges to your future. As you embark on your career journey, leverage these resources to build a meaningful and fulfilling professional life, whether within academia or beyond.