Plan for success with professional development

Don't kick up your feet after graduation, professional development is a must if you plan to boost your career to the next level.

Professional development can seem like extra homework at first glance, but it can include a huge range of learning activities that will develop, update, and enhance their skills and knowledge– and are potentially a lot of fun.

The benefits of professional development

• Keep up to date on industry best practice
• Ensure your skills and knowledge remain current
• Apply the most up-to-date solutions to problems and challenges
• Enhance your performance and progress your career

Engaging in professional development can be both self-driven and driven by your employer.

What counts as professional development

• Tertiary courses and short courses
• Workshops, seminars, webinars
• Private study
• Networking
• Volunteering e.g. serving on boards and committees
• And much more...

When you’re ready, it helps to know where to look for professional development opportunities

• Check for memberships and activities offered by professional bodies related to your career or studies– sometimes these are called peak bodies or associations e.g. the Australian Institute of Architects.
• Tap into your network– try talking to your colleagues or peers at university to discover new opportunities such as events and new groups to engage with.

• Universities, TAFE and online learning providers often offer short courses or micro-credentials. Google an institution and the phase “short course” or “professional development” to see what they have available.
• If you know how you’d like to upskill, you can look for industry-specific certifications such as Microsoft or Cisco certifications.

Not sure where to start? UQ has their full range of professional development short courses listed online.