Instructional Leadership, emphasis: K-12 School Leadership (MEd)
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  1. NAU
  2. Provost
  3. Initiatives
  4. 100% Career Ready

100% Career Ready

Paving the way for career success

Our 100% Career Ready initiative focuses on preparing NAU graduates to flourish in a wide range of careers. By offering a broad portfolio of high-quality, well-designed academic programs that are responsive to the workforce and social needs of Arizona and beyond, we aim to prepare NAU graduates to contribute to the workforce and build meaningful and family-sustaining careers.

A seamless journey from school to work

NAU’s 100% Career Ready initiative is a strategic commitment to shaping graduates who thrive in the dynamic landscape of today’s workforce. Beyond traditional education, this initiative emphasizes the infusion of practical skills, adaptability, and holistic readiness into all our academic programs. Additionally, by focusing on offering a diverse portfolio of high-quality academic programs, NAU aligns with Arizona’s workforce needs and extends its impact beyond the state’s borders. Whether students pursue liberal arts, sciences, or specialized professional fields, they’ll find tailored career mapping and support that guides them toward fulfilling, family-sustaining careers.

The heart of this initiative lies in helping students connect the dots between their academic journey and their future success. No longer will graduates wonder “What can I do with my degree?” Through intentional curricular design and career exploration support, NAU equips students with the language and confidence to articulate their skills to employers. From classroom experiences to co-curricular activities, every step contributes to a robust professional trajectory. The result? Graduates who confidently enter the workforce, ready to make an impact from day one.

Our 100% Career Ready initiative will positively impact workforce development in Arizona and beyond by offering academic programs aligned with workforce needs and designed for the enhanced professional preparation of graduates.

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What is career readiness?

Our initiative is grounded in the nationally-recognized career readiness competencies outlined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): Career and self-development, communication, critical thinking, equity and inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, technology.

Further reading: What is Career Readiness? (NACE)

Contact

For more information on this initiative, please contact Dr. Maribeth Watwood, Vice Provost for Academic Programming and Graduate Studies.