Graduate programs

Graduate programs create pathways to highly sought after positions. Final year students should all consider applying. A successful application will give your career a great start, 

Graduate programs are:

• unique job opportunities offered by medium to large organisations, including government departments
• usually only available to final year students
• paid work, training and development periods (1 or 2 years)
• opportunities for organisations to test your abilities as potential ongoing employees
• commenced when you have completed your studies
• applications open in January for the majority of industries.

Specialist graduate programs:

In certain fields, graduate recruitment is conducted through a centralised system. For example:

• law traineeships and articles - cvMail
• graduate nurse and midwifery programs - Computer Match
• teachers seeking employment in Victorian government schools - Recruitment Online

Benefits:

• increases your chance of getting into an ongoing full-time position with the same company
• teaches you practical workplace skills
• helps you build professional relationships
• provides quality experience for your future job applications and interviews
• aids you in developing career management

International students

Can I apply for graduate programs in Australia?

• some graduate programs accept applications from international students
• check out the Graduate Opportunities directory for international students
• check the eligibility requirements of each position
• make sure you have the appropriate visa or residency status
• if an organisation is recruiting international students, a compulsory component of your application is an IELTS result. Get organised early, as booking in for an IELTS test can be difficult

Tips for success:

• Get involved in extra-curricular activities
  • show employers you are an all-rounder.
• Organise work/volunteer experiences in order to build your skills and experiences
  • apply for vacation programs during your penultimate (2nd to last) year
• Achieve good academic results throughout your studies
• Identify which organisations you would like to apply for early in trimester 1 and research them:
  • attend Career Fairs during March
  • pick up a Graduate Opportunities book from your nearest Careers Resource Centre
  • check out the Unigrad and specific organisation websites
• Build relationships with the graduate program recruiters
  • attend and get ready for Career Fairs, know which organisations you would like to approach. Prepare questions to ask the recruiters
• Prepare your application documents early
  • use ResumeBuilder to prepare your application
  • get expert advice from Careers and Employment
  • concentrate on quality applications rather than quantity
• Practice interviewing skills
  • Use InterviewGold or book an appointment with a Career Counsellor for mock interview practice

Application process:

Be prepared for a lengthy application process. Graduate programs are competitive and applications require more work than applying for general jobs. The application process might require you to:

• write an application
• conduct a phone interview
• conduct a face to face interview or two
• attend an assessment centre
• take tests of your skills, aptitudes and personality type
• See 'applying for jobs' for great resources

Good luck and remember to contact your nearest Careers and Employment office for assistance

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