Graduate Students

As a graduate student at the University of Minnesota, you have access to a variety of resources and are now a part of an international network of Gophers! The University operates in a decentralized system and each college has its own student support resources including career services.

Graduate Student Resources

The U of M’s Graduate School website is a great place to start and find resources to support your career development. There are resources on finding funding opportunities, graduate assistantships, professional development and much more!


Many University wide resources can be helpful for supporting graduate students’ career growth. If you come across an event that you are unsure whether is open to graduate students, contact the facilitator and ask. Most events welcome University of Minnesota students at all levels. Check Handshake (previously known as GoldPASS) for an up to date list of events and opportunities..

Job Search for Graduate Students

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Resume versus CV

Resumes are typically used for industry type opportunities or even graduate assistantships. You may find that some opportunities ask for a CV or a curriculum vitae which is a longer document that includes work experience and also has an emphasis on academic achievements as well. Review the position posting details and requirements to determine which document would be a fit to use for the opportunity.

Transferable skills

Having experiences from a variety of fields is a valuable contribution to bring to a program or opportunity, but can be difficult to articulate sometimes. Doing some research on the organization can help you identify what skills to highlight in resume/ CV, cover letters, and interviews. A research project can yield skills such as project management, data analysis, team building, and communication skills. If you want practice interviewing, InterviewPrep allows you to record and review videos of yourself responding to practice interview questions. Conduct virtual practice interviews, review the recordings, and share with a career counselor or friend for feedback.

Building connections

Never doubt the possibilities of a connection well made. Opportunities may be shared verbally or internally before being posted on a job search board/ website. Making connections and sharing your interests with the people you meet can have many benefits such as mentorships, sharing opportunities, expanding support systems, and salary negotiation research to name a few. Start building your connections with the Maroon and Gold Network of UMN alumni and friends!

Jobs Beyond Academia and Tenure Track Workshop Series

Career exploration starts as early as the moment you say yes to your graduate program. Oftentimes, students are seeking support on how to apply the knowledge they've learned during their program as well as gain skills and experience that will supplement their education. 

One resource to help you prepare for a job search beyond the academy is the Jobs Beyond Academia and Tenure Track Workshop series. This 5 part series is offered live virtually during the fall semester and is accompanied by a self guided Canvas course. Topics include resume and cover letter writing, evaluating job and organization fit, reflecting on professional identity and much more.

Submit your interest for 2023 sessions to be notified when enrollment opens. 

Campus Offices