The Non-academic Graduate Student Job Search

Is a job outside of academia the right option for you? A graduate degree and the skills acquired in earning it can prove valuable beyond the ivory tower. As you gain transferable skills and reflect on your interests, you’ll find your master’s or doctoral degree can translate very to a wide range of industries.

For more career resources for graduate students, visit Funding for Graduate School and The Academic Job Search sections of our website.

FAQs

It's both exciting and daunthing to think about all the new options for your career path, so we encourage you to meet early on with a career advisor. In preparation, you may want to explore these self-guided tools.

Imagine PhD - Resource for humanities and social science graduate students to explore career options
My IDP - Resource for S.T.E.M. Ph.D candidates in early stages of exploring career paths outside of academic research
O*Net - career exploration by industry and job search analysis tools/salary data

As part of your job search plan, you'll need to market yourself in the right way for the right opportunities. We recommend meeting with a career advisor for help with networking, interviewing, tips for your resume, cover letters, and LinkedIn profile.

LUC's Sample Application Materials, Guides for Interviewing and LinkedIn, and BIG Interview, our interviewing platform with hundreds of specialized trainings.
Networking events and opportunities to connect with employers listed in Handshake
A list of transferable skills for Ph.D students created by the University of Michigan

For more career resources for graduate students, visit Funding for Graduate School and The Academic Job Search sections of our website.

The Non-academic Graduate Student Job Search

FAQs

Make a Career Advising Appointment and Conduct Research

Consider an internship or volunteer opportunity to gain new experience

Learn how to market yourself for a job outside of academia