Students' gateway to Campus

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:

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
  • Achieve good academic results throughout your studies
  • Identify which organisations you would like to apply for early in trimester 1 and research them:
  • 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

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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22nd June 2012