Empower your graduate journey with skills for now and the future.
Jump to: What is the the Grad Skill Enhancement Project? | Why enrol? | Steps | Key dates | Value | Registration
What is the Grad Skill Enhancement Project?
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs is excited to introduce the Grad Skill Enhancement Project — a flexible, self-paced program designed to help graduate students develop key skills that will support their academic and professional success in career preparation, leadership, communication, and personal effectiveness.
Whether you’re preparing for a career in academia, industry, or beyond, the Grad Skill Enhancement Project offers a dynamic learning experience tailored to your personal and professional goals. You will have the freedom to customize your pathway, select from a variety of workshops, participate in meaningful activities, and connect with other grads, all while maintaining the flexibility to work at your own pace.
You can complete the Graduate Skill Enhancement project in as little as 10–15 hours over a term.
Why choose the Grad Skill Enhancement Project?
I'm genuinely thankful to the GSPA for their thoughtful curation of the GSEP program. They’ve created a platform for students like me to reflect on our strengths, pinpoint areas for improvement, and sharpen both personal and professional skills. This journey has been a refreshing mix of personal growth, skill enhancement, and meaningful connections with fellow researchers. This experience stands out as one of the highlights of my time in Waterloo!
Grad Skill Enhancement Project steps
Step 1: Register
Register for the Grad Skill Enhancement Project.
Are you currently taking Professional Skills Foundations and would like to transfer to the Graduate Skill Enhancement Project? Contact us at gradexperience@uwaterloo.ca to make the change.
Step 2: Meet others in the project and watch the introductory video
Get started by watching the program introduction on LEARN which will provide more information on completing the project. You will also have the opportunity to attend our cohort welcome event where you will meet other participants in the program!
Step 3: Complete workshops and activities
Choose one workshop and one activity from four core areas (career preparation, communication, leadership, and personal effectiveness). You will also participate in a mock interview through the Centre for Career Development to test your skills and help you prepare for the job market.
Optional intensive focus: Students who wish to complete an additional 3 workshops and 3 activities in a core area will receive a special designation on their LinkedIn digital badge and letter of completion. Please note that this is in addition to completing the main GSEP requirements. To add an intensive focus to your GSEP journey, please email gradexperience@uwaterloo.ca.
Step 4: Submit your reflection and proof of completion
Once you've completed the workshops and activities, submit a reflection on your experiences and provide proof of completion for each activity.
Step 5: Celebrate your success
You will receive a LinkedIn badge and letter of completion recognizing your achievements.
Regardless of your path, the Grad Skill Enhancement Project will help you gain the tools and experience you need to succeed.
Key dates for winter 2027
- Registration opens: October 13, 2027
- Registration closes: January 11, 2027
- Program start: January 11, 2027
- Kickoff event: January 12, 2027
- Final submission deadline: April 30, 2027
Value to you
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Careers in academia: Prepare for success in and beyond academia by honing critical professional skills that will elevate your career and leadership potential.
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Careers outside of academia: Build the skills that employers value most in today’s competitive job market, from leadership to effective communication
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs staff are happy to support you through the project at any time and can be contacted at gradexperience@uwaterloo.ca.