The truth about your career planLet’s separate fact from fiction…

POSTGRADUATE STUDIES

When it comes to taking the next step on your career path, which direction will you be heading?

If you’ve just completed postgraduate study, or are considering taking it on, have a look at some of the myths and realities associated with taking the next step on your learning journey.

True or false?

Postgraduate study can help your career in a number of ways.

True

A postgraduate degree can open up a wide array of opportunities in your career, including the chance to expand your skills and increase your earning and career potential.

By upgrading your skills, these higher level qualifications can provide you with the ability to become a specialist in your area, gain recognition for your work experience or change career direction.

Postgraduate study gives you the opportunity to future-proof yourself.

True or false?

The only reason to undertake postgraduate study is to change or move ahead in my career.

False

While postgraduate study may enable you to change or progress your career, higher studies may also provide additional opportunities.

Many industries have undergone significant changes since you last studied, and postgraduate study will give you a deeper understanding of your industry now and into the future.

In today’s job market, a postgraduate qualification and the specialised skills that accompany it can put you ahead of the crowd.

While postgraduate study may enable you to change or progress your career, higher studies may also provide additional opportunities.

Many industries have undergone significant changes since you last studied, and postgraduate study will give you a deeper understanding of your industry now and into the future.

In today’s job market, a postgraduate qualification and the specialised skills that accompany it can put you ahead of the crowd.

Postgraduate study can also help to further ignite your passion for your career and show a level of professional determination and desire for personal growth.

True or false?

You’ll be guaranteed a promotion after doing postgraduate studies.

False

There are never any guarantees when it comes to getting a promotion or an increase in pay.

However, what you can be assured of is that you will gain a wealth of knowledge that will bring about significant benefits and open up opportunities to advance your career.

For many, a postgraduate qualification is a prerequisite for career progression within their organisation.

True or false?

Postgraduate study can put you at risk of seeming ‘over-qualified’ and ‘under-employed’.

False

It’s important to think about the reasons why you’ve completed postgraduate study, or are planning to pursue it.

Is the sole reason to progress your career, or are you interested in personal growth and building on your skills and industry knowledge?

Postgraduate study enables career options, by adding to your skills and knowledge base. It’s important to remember the value of work experience too, to ensure that you have the hands-on capabilities to support your growing theoretical knowledge base.

As you can see, postgraduate study can provide significant benefits to your career and your personal growth. If you’ve completed postgrad studies, or you’re thinking about taking the next step on your learning journey, now’s the time to explore your options!

CRICOS: QLD00244B NSW02225M TEQSA: PRV12081 29.8.6 02.2017 Graphics © Shutterstock

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Contact the team at USQ Student Services to make an appointment with a Career

Development Practitioner and explore how postgraduate study could enrich and expand

your career prospects.