Career

McPherson College is focused on careers.

It’s a focus that begins freshman year and is incorporated across curriculum in the classroom, in service opportunities, and in experiences outside of the classroom. The Career & Experiential Learning office is the hub of this effort engaging students early to begin acquiring the skills for a career and ensuring career placement when they graduate.

(Click on sections to learn more.)

Starting their freshman year, students are introduced to the Enterprising MC Student model – a process to explore, experience, and engage while discovering the skills they need to be successful in their future careers.

Throughout their years at McPherson College students become more adept at applying what they learn through this process resulting in a strong resumé to assist their job search. Initially students are encouraged to establish direction and declare a major then test that direction, try-out ideas and confirm their decision. In later years, students add to their knowledge base and experiences, make adjustments if necessary and increase their level of career involvement. Finally, students are supported in taking on leadership roles, mentorships, engaging with industry mentors and interning with organizations within their desired field.

Explore

Personal and professional development through exploration.

Field experiences/site visits
Career exploration interviews with area professionals or alumni
Aptitude/interests tests
Career fairs
Advising meetings with faculty
Introductory/Gen Ed courses
Volunteering
Horizon Fund
First Year Seminar

Experience

Learning through reflection of participation and observation.

Job shadowing
Mentorships
Student clubs
Conference attendance
Networking events
Pop-up career courses
Service learning
Sophomore and junior seminar courses
Soft Skills (Practice interview, cover letter, resume)
Student Debt Project

Engage

Participation in professional opportunities and relevant positions to improve skills toward understanding of the workplace and graduate school.

Internships
Jobs
Graduate school clubs and preparation workshops
Part-time, relevant work – On or Off Campus
Conference presentations
Senior research projects/capstone projects

Career ready.

We know one of your top priorities in earning a college education is finding a job. We’re confident that our education and resources, combined with your hard work and dedication, will set you apart in your career.

3/4

of our graduates secure a job before graduation. 99% are employed or placed in grad school within six months after graduation.

Learn stackable skills through a variety of experiences:

Career Placement
We’ll help you get started in your career by connecting you with job opportunities prior to or upon graduation.

Internships
Gain direct, hands-on work experience while earning your degree. Internships occur in your field of study. 80% of the recent graduating class had at least one internship or field experience prior to graduation.

Field Experience
Shadow a professional to see what a day in the life of your chosen career path looks like.

Off-Campus Job
Earn money in a paid position, that may or may not be in your chosen field, with an employer outside of the college.

Work Study or On-Campus Job
Apply for a paid position, arranged between you and an on-campus department.

Career Services FAQ:

How does a student find a job or internship?

Utilize the easy-to-use Handshake platform to access on-campus employment, full- and part-time positions, internships, study and work abroad opportunities and service and volunteer opportunities. Connect with local employers specializing in business administration, accounting and finance, health care, manufacturing and more.

Can I ask questions about my future career plans during my campus visit?

Yes! Amy Beckman, our executive director of career & experiential learning, loves talking to students about job and internship opportunities as early as your freshman year.

Can I get help figuring out my major or career plan?

Yes! Many easy to use tools such as career-interest inventories, self-assessment tools, and occupation search guides are available to help you learn what career options best fit you. At McPherson College, you have a support team comprised of career, faculty, mentors, and staff advisors who are focused on your academic success and career development.

Can I do an internship and earn credit towards my degree?

Yes, you can! After 12 hours completed at McPherson College, students can complete an internship or field placement for credit. Up to 10 total hours earned through internships can be applied toward graduation.

Quicklinks

Explore, experience and engage.

Overview

McPherson College is focused on careers.

The Enterprising MC Student