GradPathways, Graduate Studies’ premier professional development program, has been recognized for its pioneering professional development opportunities for UC Davis graduate students and postdoctoral scholars by the Council of Graduate Schools.

In a report titled Professional Development Shaping Effective Programs for STEM Graduate Students, the Council of Graduate Schools emphasizes the importance of quality professional development graduate programs for STEM graduate students and provides tools, resources, examples, discussion issues and  to be utilized by universities nationwide.

Since its inception in 2004, UC Davis’ nationally-recognized GradPathways program has served as a model for other graduate student and postdoctoral professional development programs across the nation. The comprehensive, competency-based program is designed to help graduate students and postdoctoral scholars succeed both at UC Davis and in their chosen career paths.

The GradPathways program was featured among university professional development programs “that exhibit both features commonly found in other university professional development programs for graduate students as well as strengths, strategies, and
partnerships that make these programs unique.”

GradPathways was also recognized for its focus on leadership skills, an area of professional development that is valued highly by employers. In collaboration with the UC Davis Office of Research, the Mike and Renee Child Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Internship and Career Center, GradPathways offers a four-tier program consisting of workshops, experiential development opportunities, and individual projects that allow graduate students to “to identify, design, and validate new business opportunities for their research.”

“GradPathways has long served as a benchmark for graduate professional programs across the nation” Vice Provost of Graduate Education and Dean of Graduate Studies Prasant Mohapatra said. “As educators, it’s our responsibility to create new and innovative professional development opportunities to prepare graduate students for the ever-changing demands of academic and industry job markets. We take that charge very seriously. ”

GradPathways Program Director Teresa Dillinger hopes that the report’s findings help other institutions develop a multi-faceted approach to graduate student professional development. “To provide such a robust program, it is essential to work with our campus partners and tap their expertise.  At UC Davis, we fortunate to have strong ties with the Internship and Career Center, the University Writing Program, and the Center for Educational Effectiveness, to name just a few.  We are continually seeking ways to improve our programs and grow our partnerships to meet the needs of UC Davis graduate students”.

Learn more about the program by visiting the GradPathways website.

About Graduate Studies at UC Davis

Graduate Studies at UC Davis includes 99 dynamic degree programs and a diverse and interactive student body from around the world. Known for our state-of-the-art research facilities, productive laboratories and progressive spirit – UC Davis offers collaborative and interdisciplinary curricula through graduate groups and designated emphasis options – bringing students and faculty of different academic disciplines together to address real-world challenges.

UC Davis master’s and doctoral graduates become leaders in their fields – researchers, teachers, politicians, mentors and entrepreneurs. Graduates go on to guide, define and impact change within our global community.

For information on Graduate Studies’ current strategic initiatives, visit grad.ucdavis.edu.