You might be asking, ‘so, what is a graduate program?’ and we think it’s best to kick things off with a clear answer:
In short, graduate programs are one of the best ways to kickstart your career after graduating from university! With specialisations ranging across tech, trades, marketing, management, and everything in between, you’re bound to find a program that sets you up for your dream job!
But that’s not all: graduate programs allow you to earn while you learn (did we mention the salaries range from $65-75,000 a year? Sounds pretty good if you ask us!). During your time in the program, you’ll likely be assigned a mentor, too. This means you’ll have a whole team working towards your success.
Most graduate programs last about 1-3 years and will see you working across multiple areas of the business. Assuming all goes well over, these roles often result in full-time employment, too. Talk about setting yourself up for a bright future!
Why Consider a Graduate Program?
There are a tonne of compelling reasons as to why you might want to pursue a graduate program! The most obvious of all is that your participation could lead to you landing your dream job. After all, many graduate programs lead to full time employment (as long as you’re working hard and putting your best foot forward.
The best part, however, is that there are tonnes of extra perks and bonuses, permanent employment aside! Grads have access to comprehensive training and on-the-job experience that will serve them well over the course of their careers. What’s more, graduate programs often feature work rotations so that you can get a taste of different parts of the business before deciding on your specialisation. In short, it ensures that you make the right career decision for you!
Entry Requirements
Unlike traineeships and apprentices, you usually need a degree to land a graduate program (however, there are some rare exceptions if you look hard enough). That being said, there are plenty of opportunities for every specialty, so don’t worry too much if your major is a little niche!
Is A Graduate Program Right for You?
So, you’ve grasped the graduate program basics. Now it’s time to decide whether or not to hit apply!
Before diving into the deep end, make sure you ask yourself whether the graduate program aligns with your long-term goals (and whether it will help you land your dream job). Like university degrees, these programs are big commitments, and you want to be sure you can see them through. .
More often than not, there will be a perfect fit for any ambitious job hunter. You just need to know where to look! Pro tip: peruse the offerings on our website. Not to toot our own horn, but we’re always ahead of the curve.
Graduate Program FAQ
Just in case you have any burning graduate-program-related questions that have been left unanswered, we’ve put together a whole FAQ section to ensure that you’re equipped with all the info you need to make a decision on whether or not they’re for you!
Question: Are Graduate Positions Paid?
Answer: Yes! Graduate programs are paid (and quite well, might we add)! On average, grads take home anywhere from $63,000-$72,000 per year.
Question: How Long Are Graduate Programs?
Answer: Graduate programs typically run for 1-3 years, and those with rotations in different areas of the business are generally split into six-month periods.
Question: What Happens After a Graduate Program?
It’s common for high-performing graduates to be offered full-time roles with the company once they finish their graduate program. In fact, many grads are offered great roles that aren’t just entry-level: that’s what on-the-job experience can get you!
Question: What is the Point of a Graduate Program
By taking part in a graduate program, you’ll be gaining a higher earning potential, a role with structure and stability, the opportunity to try out different specialisations, and a tonne of real-world experience.
Our Top Graduate Program Picks
Kmart Graduate Program
With grad streams for tech wizards, supply chain superstars, sustainability specialists and more, Kmart’s Graduate Program has an option for every aspiring employee.
Think you’d be a great fit? All you need is a degree and a great attitude! Begin perusing their opportunities today or find out more at their employer profile.
Where Could Kmart’s Graduate Programs Take You?
- Data Engineering
- Software Development
- Marketing
- Management
KFC Graduate Program
Graduates looking to spice up their career journey can do so through KFC’s Leadership Program! Your time will be organised around four 12-month rotations chosen with your career goals in mind. Essentially, it’s bound to be exciting and set you up for your future!
Not only is the company culture ‘finger-lickin’ good,’ the opportunity also gives you a taste of all areas of the business, such as:
- Marketing
- Operations
- People and Culture
- Supply Chain
- Information Technology
Nestlé Graduate Program
Featuring five exciting grad streams, Nestlé’s tasty NextGen gradate programs have an option for all future businesspeople.
We could go on and on about how great it is, but Brooke, a Nestlé graduate, could probably do a better job. After her time with Nestlé, she was exposed to a myriad of projects “like process optimisation, project management, teamwork and how all the different teams within the factory interact to meet common goals.”
Head to Nestlé’s employer profile to check out all the possibilities of a NextGen future, including:
- Sales and Marketing
- IT Business Partnering
- Supply Chain
- Finance
- Technical and Production
Western Health
Just finished a degree in nursing and want to specialise? Lucky for you, Western Health offers some sensational Graduate Programs that’ll take your career to the next level!
Make your first role in the Healthcare industry a great one; working with others who want to see you reach your full potential is bound to set you up for a fantastic career journey. Try a Graduate Program with Western Health in:
- Midwifery
- Nursing
Ready to Apply?
If you’re feeling ready to launch your career as a graduate, make sure you start off on the right foot by submitting a stellar application! Simply check out our blogs on cover letters and resumes for the best tips today!
