What is Career Development?

Employers Want Competent Employees

Technical Competencies and Academic Skills

• Learned in your courses
• Practiced in your courses and experiential learning settings
• Application in job performance

Career Competencies and Transferable Skills

• Learned through experiences
• Practiced in many settings
• Application in all areas

What is career readiness?

The foundation from which we demonstrate the requisite core competencies that broadly prepare persons for success in the workplace and lifelong career management. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) defines and measures this foundation through eight competencies.

Then what's career development?

"Proactively developing oneself and one's career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one's strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities, and networking to build relationships within and without one's organization." – NACE

• Learning and Growth
• Self-Awareness
• Opportunity Navigation
• Networking

NACE Career Competencies

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