About the Career Journey Model
A four-phase model that guides how students progress—from discovery to post-graduation outcomes.
Our Shared Framework for Career Readiness
As part of building a career-ready campus, Rutgers uses a shared framework to guide students through their career development, connecting academic experiences with career outcomes.
Career Journey Model: How Students Progress
The Career Journey Model outlines how students progress from exploration to post-graduation outcomes.
Use this framework to help students connect experiences, build career readiness competencies, and make informed decisions.
Discover Yourself
Begin by understanding interests, values, and strengths.
Explore Careers & Pathways
Then connect interests to majors, careers, and opportunities.
Develop Skills & Competencies
Build and apply skills through hands-on experiences.
Pursue Your Goals
Prepare for and secure post-graduation opportunities.
Career Readiness Competencies: Skills Employers Value
Developed by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), these eight competencies define the skills students need for career success and lifelong learning.
They are developed across each stage of the Career Journey Model and provide a shared language for how students build, reflect on, and communicate their skills.
About Career Readiness Competencies
Eight core competencies developed by NACE that define the skills students build across the Career Journey Model.
Career & Self-Development
Continuously develop yourself through reflection and lifelong learning.
Communication
Clearly and effectively exchange ideas, information, and perspectives.
Critical Thinking
Analyze information and make informed decisions to solve problems.
Equity & Inclusion
Engage and collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Leadership
Recognize strengths and guide others toward shared goals.
Professionalism
Act with integrity, accountability, and awareness of workplace expectations.
Teamwork
Collaborate effectively with others to achieve common goals.
Technology
Use technology strategically and ethically to enhance your work.
Our Vision for a Career-Ready Campus
Rutgers’ commitment to building a career-ready campus is grounded in a strategic vision to ensure every student connects their experiences to meaningful career outcomes.
The Career Journey Model and Career Readiness Competencies provide the shared framework that advances this vision across the university.
