Career Development Resources
Career Readiness Competencies
The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies eight Career Readiness Competencies that employers consistently seek in college graduates.
These competencies help students connect what they learn in the classroom with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed after graduation.
At Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, career readiness is not just about earning a degree. It’s about intentionally developing these competencies through coursework, research, internships, campus involvement, leadership, employment, service, and other experiential learning opportunities.
How to use the NACE competencies
Think of these competencies as a roadmap rather than a checklist.
Throughout your college experience, look for opportunities to practice each competency, reflect on what you’ve learned, and communicate those experiences on your resume, LinkedIn profile, graduate school applications, and during interviews.
What employers look for
Career & Self Development
Take ownership of your career journey through self-reflection, goal setting, networking, and continuous learning.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Meet with Career Development each year
- Develop a career plan
- Seek internships or research
- Reflect on your strengths and interests
Communication
Clearly exchange ideas through speaking, writing, listening, and presenting.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Deliver class presentations
- Write research papers
- Participate in discussions
- Practice professional emails
Critical Thinking
Analyze information, solve problems, and make informed decisions.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Complete research projects
- Interpret data
- Evaluate evidence
- Solve real-world problems in class
Equity & Inclusion
Value diverse perspectives and contribute to welcoming, respectful environments.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Work with diverse teams
- Participate in community engagement
- Practice inclusive leadership
Teamwork
Collaborate effectively with others to achieve common goals.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Complete group projects
- Work in labs
- Serve on committees
- Participate in organizations
Leadership
Inspire and support others while working toward shared goals.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Lead a student organization
- Mentor peers
- Coordinate a project
- Take initiative
Professionalism
Demonstrate responsibility, integrity, accountability, and ethical behavior.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Arrive prepared
- Meet deadlines
- Communicate respectfully
- Follow through on commitments
Technology
Use digital tools and technology ethically and effectively.
How arts and sciences students can build this competency:
- Use discipline-specific software
- Analyze data
- Create presentations
- Build a LinkedIn profile
Connecting your experiences to employers
Employers are interested in more than your major. They want to understand how you’ve applied your knowledge and developed transferable skills.
When preparing your resume or interviewing, think about how your classes, undergraduate research, internships, campus employment, leadership roles, volunteer work, and student organizations demonstrate these competencies.
Career coach tip
After every meaningful experience, ask yourself: Which NACE competencies did I strengthen? What examples can I share with an employer? Reflecting regularly will help you tell a stronger story during interviews and prepare you for future opportunities.
Need help identifying your skills?
Eberly Career Development can help you recognize your strengths, connect your experiences to the NACE Career Readiness Competencies, and confidently communicate your value to employers and graduate schools.