You’ll get more than a great education at Mason. We also provide resources that enable you to develop highly sought skills and build a professional network that will enable you to launch a thriving career.
Accelerate to Industry (A2i)
(A2i website now live!)
The Graduate Division is dedicated to creating a university-wide focus on graduate education and training by continuing to support and develop dynamic extra-curricular training experiences designed to provide students with an enhanced suite of skills and competencies necessary for success across all careers paths. The Accelerate to Industry (A2i) program helps Mason graduate students obtain the workforce skills and experience they need to succeed in a dynamic industry career path. Students will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders as they prepare for their future after graduate school.
In the Fall of 2023 the Graduate Division in partnership with University Career Services and Graduate Student Life launched the inaugural Accelerate to Industry (A2i) Graduate Career Series. With A2i, graduate students and postdoctoral scholars can explore the ample employment opportunities with industry companies in the DC and DMV areas, throughout Virginia, and across the US. They can develop the business, leadership, and communication skills that companies seek. Check Mason360 for event details and registration!
University Career Services
Find comprehensive support in your pursuit of the perfect position. University Career Services provides customized career advice based on the unique needs, goals, and circumstances of graduate students. Activate your Handshake account to find jobs and internships, learn about job fairs and workshops, get help polishing your résumé and interviewing skills, or explore industry-specific resources.
Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning
Take advantage of a variety of professional development programs for those pursuing teaching-related careers. Visit the Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning to see the programs they are offering.
Graduate Student Life Events and Programs
Graduate Student Life regularly offers career and professional development events and programs in collaboration with campus partners, including University Career Services, University Libraries, Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning, Office of Research, and more. Past workshops have focused on résumé writing, professional branding and networking, interviewing and salary negotiation for academic and industry jobs, career switching, public speaking skills, and grant writing. Find out about upcoming events.
Professional Development Fellowships
Explore professional development fellowships (such as the Presidential Management Fellowships and the Mellon/ACLS Public Fellows Program) that serve as competitive bridge programs help you enhance your career options through experience in a specialized professional setting.
You could work for a:
- Government agency.
- Non-governmental organization (NGO).
- Nonprofit.
- Think tank.
- Research organization.
- Advocacy group.
- Service group.
The paid professional development experience or work placement supplements your academic study or begins as soon as you graduate.
Other options include both internal and external graduate fellowships.