Careers Beyond Academia
Finding a job requires a large time commitment. The key is to employ multiple techniques and strategies. The more dedicated and diversified your job search is - and the more cleverly you apply these techniques to your advantage - the more likely you are to find opportunities.
Explore Options
Conduct a self assessment, make a 1:1 advising appointment, conduct research, meet professionals, and seek resources to familiarize yourself with the language, people, and culture of the employment sectors that interest you. More
Conduct Your Search
Networking with individuals close to the industry or job of interest is the most effective way to find a fulfilling job/career beyond academia. Responding to job postings online and in print is the easiest (and hence most popular) job search method. It is the least efficient approach, however, especially for advanced positions. Reading job postings can help you gain fluency in the lingo of your field of interest. Be sure to use that lingo in your resume and cover letter.
Apply
Prepare a targeted and effective CV, "industry CV", resume, and cover letter that will get you interviews.
Your advanced academic career has provided you with many sought-after skills needed to transition into a position outside academia. Becoming aware of these skills and how to effectively express them on a resume, cover letter, and during the interview process can lead to fulfilling career opportunities. More
Interview & Negotiation
Preparation goes a long way in giving you an edge during an interview. Visit our interviewing resources, and attend the Interview Practice Beyond Academic Workshop specifically for graduate students.
Make an Appointment
If you're not sure what career path to take once you earn your degree, a career advisor dedicated to current UC San Diego PhD and Master's students is available for a confidential discussion of all issues related to career planning and professional development. More
PhD-trained scholars possess traits and skills of highest value in the "real world!"
Teaching, conceptualizing and explaining
Public speaking
Supporting a position with logical argument
Managing all phases of complex research projects
Organizing ideas
Integrating information from disparate sources
Working in committees, on teams and independently
Problem solving
Analytical, objective, and flexible
Resourceful, determined and persistent
Thorough, organized and efficient
PhD & Master's Students
PANEL: Careers Beyond Academia in Science & Engineering
PhD & Master's Student Seminars & Workshops
- It's Never Too Early to Think About the Job Search
- Looking Beyond Academia Series
- Converting a CV to a Résumé
- Interview Practice Beyond Academia
For details on these and other seminars and events, and to register, log into Port Triton.
