Grad program vs grad job

Thinking about your career post uni? There are two main job options open to you. The first is applying for a formal graduate program, a structured scheme often run by larger companies designed to train and develop recent graduates over time. The second option is looking for a graduate job, which is a full-time or part-time role aimed at new graduates, or those with minimal experience, but without the formal training or rotations.

Both options are valid and can lead to great careers, but they offer very different experiences. Understanding the difference will help you choose which path suits your goals and personality best.

Graduate Programs are structured schemes run by larger companies designed to onboard and train recent graduates. These programs usually last for 12 months or more and often include rotations across different departments. You’ll get formal training sessions, mentorship from experienced staff, and plenty of professional development opportunities. The goal is to help you develop a broad skill set and prepare you for a long-term career within the company.

Here are some pros of graduate programs to consider:

• You receive structured training and a clear development plan.

• You get exposure to different teams and job roles, which helps you find what suits you best.

• Access to mentors and a strong support network can guide you through your early career.

• Clear pathways for career progression are often laid out from the start.

However, graduate programs also have their cons:

• They are highly competitive, with many applicants vying for limited spots.

• You might have less flexibility regarding the role or location since programs tend to follow a set structure.

• Most programs require you to commit for at least a year, which may feel like a big commitment if you’re unsure about your path.

On the other hand, a graduate job is a regular full-time role aimed at recent graduates but without the structured training or rotations. These jobs are often found in smaller companies or industries where formal graduate programs are less common. While you won’t have the same formal support or rotations, graduate jobs still offer valuable work experience and chances to grow professionally. You’ll often take on specific responsibilities sooner and learn by doing.

Here are some pros of graduate jobs:

• You gain more hands-on experience from the very beginning.

• There is often more flexibility in choosing your role or location.

• It can be easier to get a graduate job in less competitive industries or smaller companies.

But there are some downsides too:

• Training and professional development tend to be less formal or structured.

• There may be fewer opportunities to explore different teams or roles within the company.

• Support networks might be smaller, so you may need to be more proactive in seeking mentorship or guidance.

Both graduate programs and graduate jobs have their benefits, and the right choice depends on your career goals, preferred learning style, and the industry you want to enter. Graduate programs offer a clear path and support but can be competitive and less flexible. Graduate jobs provide practical experience and flexibility but might require more self-direction.

Whichever path you choose, gaining real work experience early on and building your professional network will help you succeed in your career.