CAREER & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the most frequently asked questions of the Career and Professional Development staff:

  1. What types of jobs do the Josef Korbel School of International Studies' students get after they graduate? What is the percent breakdown of sectors where graduates work?


    There is great variety in the types of employment that Josef Korbel School of International Studies graduates seek and find. Much of it depends on the state of the job market, the experience and skill level of the job searcher and any potential geographic limitations.


  2. How long does the job search process usually take?


    The average job search takes 6-8 months of active searching but much of it depends on: the state of the job market, the desires of the job searcher, the skill level of the searcher and the amount of time the person spends on their job search.


  3. How many employers visit campus to recruit?


    The job market is very dynamic and employers recruit in a variety of ways, only one of which is visiting a campus. Many organizations are limited in terms of their resources specifically, recruiting staff and budget. Also, many organizations in the field of human rights and development do not participate in on campus recruiting because of their hiring needs. Employers recruit in the following ways: on campus visits, career fairs, resume requests, site visits, phone requests, etc. Office of Career and Professional Development works with organizations as their hiring needs and methods dictate. Instead of focusing only on one method of recruiting, look at the wide variety of programming offered.


  4. Are alumni involved in the internship and job search process?


    Yes. Through the Josef Korbel School of International Studies Alumni Career Connections (ACC) Program, Office of Career and Professional Development links current Josef Korbel School of International Studies students with Josef Korbel School of International Studies alumni all over the world. Profiles and contact information for ACC volunteers are online in the Career Web system.


  5. What is the average salary of a Josef Korbel School of International Studies graduate?


    There is no simple answer! A graduate’s salary right out of the Josef Korbel School of International Studies depends on that person’s prior work experience, skill set, the sector of the job and the geographical area it is located. We can give you general information about salaries that our students are finding in the different areas of international affairs.


  6. Do PhD students generally teach? Where do those who don’t teach tend to work?


    Most PhD students are interested in working in academia, however, there is a fair number who are interested in working outside of academia. They find positions in NGOs, government, think tanks and research institutes and the private sector. You can find the employment statistics for PhD students here.


  7. What are some of the internships that Josef Korbel School of International Studies students have completed?


    Students intern in a wide variety of organizations and geographic locations. Visit internships for the most recent internships listed by location. This page also has information on resources to begin your internship search and the Josef Korbel School of International Studies internship policy.


  8. Where can I look for a part time job in Denver?


    See the Part Time Job Resource Guide. You can also visit the DU Office of Financial Aid pages that list undergraduate and graduate federal work study positions. Once you are enrolled in the Josef Korbel School of International Studies and attend orientation you will be given access to the Career Web.


  9. When can I find out more about the services and resources provided by the Josef Korbel School of International Studies Office of Career and Professional Development Office? When can I meet with someone from Office of Career and Professional Development to discuss internships and careers?


    There is a mandatory orientation session for all admitted students prior to their matriculation (enrollment in classes). During this session, you will learn more about the events, programs, and resources offered by the Josef Korbel School of International Studies Office of Career and Professional Development Office.

    After classes begin, you are welcome at any time to make an appointment with an Office of Career and Professional Development staff member to discuss job and internship options. Be sure to make good use of the publications and other resources in the Career Resource Center.


  10. I’m really confused about what degree program to choose… what advice do you have?


    Spend some time researching your areas of interest and talk to students in those degree programs or alumni working in those areas. The Admissions Office can connect you with the appropriate individuals. We also have a very informative Guide to Careers in International Affairs that was developed by our association, the Association of Professional Schools in International Affairs. If you would like a copy of the report please email gsiscrc@du.edu.