Whether it’s for a first job after college or a career change, the University of Mary Washington provides a range of resources and programs for taking the next step.
With a ground-level network spanning the I-95 corridor – stretching from Fredericksburg through the nation’s capital in Washington, D.C., to the state capital in Richmond, Virginia – UMW is uniquely positioned to assist government workers and contractors looking to stay employed in the area. Combined with an online support system made up of more than 45,000 alumni around the world, the connections are endless.
The University also will host a mini-conference on Thursday, May 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Jepson Alumni Executive Center to help job seekers learn to effectively communicate their experience, craft compelling résumés and tap into resources.
“We want to serve our alumni and the community around Mary Washington in a truly meaningful and positive way, and that is what this event is for,” said Assistant Director of Career Education Mary Becelia. “With options for many career paths and resources tailored to federal workers, UMW continues to be an educational resource for the local as well as the Northern Virginia region focused on meeting the needs of our community, particularly as it relates to career management in the current moment.”
Connect with online resources for UMW alumni and federal workers.
“What I Can Do Now: A Mini-Conference for Job Seekers” features dynamic panel discussions and an interactive workshop. Sessions reveal immediate resources, lessons on how to use AI as a tool in the application process and tips to catch employers’ attention. Attendees will learn how to quickly update their education, add new certifications and customize their résumés and cover letters for the jobs they want. The half-day event – hosted by UMW Alumni Engagement, Center for Career and Professional Development, and Continuing and Professional Studies – is free and open to the public, with registration required.
“UMW has taken up the call to host a conference to upskill folks who may not have looked for a job in a long time,” said Director of Continuing and Professional Programs Teresa Segelken. “We want to help people feel they can take the next step and go in the next direction. UMW is all about critical and creative thinking and using emerging technology to build skills and community.”
Previously collected skillsets count, too, both for job seekers and for those who want to pursue a degree. “Your work experience is valued,” said Associate Dean of Graduate Admissions Christy Pack. “You can put it into a portfolio class for elective credit. If you are a degree completer, your work experience can transfer to college credit.”
Individuals seeking an advanced degree can choose from UMW’s AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) or the Master of Education (M.Ed.), with programs in elementary, middle grades, secondary, preK-12 and special education.
The MBA at UMW is concentrated into 30 credits and can be completed in two years or less, allowing students to earn a degree at their own pace. Courses are offered online, and the GRE and GMAT are not required for admission. Tailored to career climbers, industry specialists and entrepreneurs, the program encourages individuals to stay ahead and stand out.
UMW’s M.Ed. program provides comprehensive training for educators and those seeking to advance their careers in education. Flexible scheduling and a supportive learning environment help students achieve their professional goals. Courses are offered in the evenings and in blended and online formats. The program combines coursework and field experiences to prepare candidates for teacher licensure, and individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree can apply directly to the master’s program.
Postbaccalaureate students who want to take their aspirations abroad can pursue partner graduate programs through the University of Mary Washington, many of which are open to alumni, with scholarships, facilitated entry requirements and additional benefits. These options are available through UMW’s Center for International Education.
For those looking to stay closer to home, UMW’s Office of Continuing and Professional Studies offers courses designed to enhance professional skills and drive organizational missions. The Business Acumen Series, for example, combines industry expertise with practical application to deliver results. These courses are ideal for federal workers looking to develop new skills and advance their careers quickly. Programs with CISSP Certification and CompTIA are available for business professionals and educators who need specific knowledge for career advancement.
Browse courses and programs to advance your career.
In addition, Mary Washington alumni can continue to access career resources at their alma mater – with services available for life, no matter what stage they’ve reached in their career. Many resources have been collected online, and the alumni-to-alumni network is active through Eagle Connections on LinkedIn and Network Mary Wash, a platform where current students and alumni can pose and ask questions and connect on career advice.
Find alumni resources at the Center for Career and Professional Development.