Graduate Programs & Student Success Stories

We choose university for many reasons, but a key reason is to achieve career goals. Whether you have a specific job in mind, want to broaden your prospects, advance in your career, or find more meaning in work, the skills and knowledge you gain here help toward your future.

With all the influences, ideas, decisions, plans and excitement that brought you to UNE, it’s not surprising to wonder what jobs and opportunities are available after graduation. The great news is that the pathways for university graduates are incredibly diverse, and with the world of work rapidly evolving, the future is exciting.

One place to start planning your career is to look into Graduate Programs. What is a graduate program? It is a structured, full-time position for recent university graduates. Usually offered by larger organisations like government agencies or private companies, these programs give you real-world experience, along with professional development and mentorship to help you grow.

Top five reasons why a graduate program is fantastic!

We only recommend the best. Read why we think graduate programs are awesome.

  1. Fast-Track Your Career
    Graduate programs are designed to kickstart your career and set you up for success. With mentorship, job rotations, and professional development, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to step into leadership or specialised roles faster.
  2. Explore Diverse Opportunities
    No matter your field, arts, law, IT, health sciences, or beyond, there’s likely a graduate program for you. These programs span industries, so you can find one that aligns with your interests and goals.
  3. Build Skills with Support
    Graduate programs offer structured learning, formal training, and regular feedback to help you grow. They’re especially helpful if it’s your first job or if you’re transitioning to a new career. Employers also value the transferable skills and life experience mature students bring to the table.
  4. Job Security and Growth
    Most graduate programs offer stable, full-time roles with competitive pay for 12-24 months. Many also lead to permanent positions if you complete the program successfully.
  5. Inclusive and Welcoming
    Graduate programs prioritise diversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for candidates from all backgrounds. You’ll find a supportive environment that celebrates unique experiences and perspectives.

Types of Graduate Programs

Graduate programs come in all shapes and sizes, catering to a wide range of industries and interests. Here are some popular options:

  1. Corporate Programs
    Large companies in finance, consulting, technology, and more offer structured programs to help you thrive in the corporate world.
  2. Public Sector Programs
    Government agencies and non-profits focus on public service, policy, and making a community impact.
  3. Industry-Specific Programs
    Healthcare, education, law, engineering, and science offer tailored programs based on an area of expertise.
  4. Start-Up Programs
    Smaller companies and tech start-ups offer entrepreneurial programs with room to grow and make a big impact.

How to Apply for Graduate Programs

We’ve told you why they are awesome; we’ve told you the different types, and now let us tell you how to apply! Applying for graduate programs can be competitive, but with the right approach and a little support from us, you got this! Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Start Early
    Most programs open a year before you graduate, so begin exploring options by the end of your first year. Keep track of deadlines and find programs that match your interests and skills.
  2. Perfect Your Resume and Cover Letter
    Tailor them to highlight your qualifications, relevant work experience (like internships or part-time jobs), and the skills the program is looking for.
  3. Get Ready for Assessments
    Be prepared for online tests and video interviews. Practice answering common questions and try our UNE Careers Toolkit Interview360 for a confidence boost.
  4. Attend Info Sessions
    Employers and the UNE Career team often host sessions to share tips and insights about their graduate programs. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to learn and connect!
  5. Use UNE Career Services
    We’re here to help! From career coaching and resume tips to workshops and Work Integrated Learning units, we’ve got the tools to guide you. Email us at careers@une.edu.au to get started.

Get ahead, get organised, and show them what you’ve got!

Where to Research and Apply

To further explore graduate programs and get advice on your application process, check out these helpful resources: