SBS Pathways Careers Courses

Figuring out what you want to do and how to make it happen is challenging for everyone. Why not take a class where you will be guided through the process of career exploration, and where you will develop your application materials and the professional skills necessary to get the job or internship you want? You will have to do these things anyway, so taking an SBS career class is a great way to put some structure around it, and earn credit at the same time!

SOC BEHAV 250: College to Careers
SOC BEHAV 490C: Pathways to Career Success

Course descriptions below.

SOC BEHAV 250: College to Careers

This course is unique because it is all about the student. Everything students do in this course will benefit them in the present and the future.  Students learn how to articulate their stories and experiences to others while exploring and planning their SBS Pathways – from college to career. 

  • Develop application materials (resume, cover letter, LinkedIn etc.)
  • Explore career interests and prepare for the future
  • Practice professional skills like networking and interviewing

1 credit
Highly participatory course
Offered in Fall & Spring

What past students have said about SOC BEHAV 250: College to Careers :

  • “I am really proud of the resume I have created using the knowledge I have learned in this class […]. Thanks for a great year and teaching me about important things I know I will use in real life!” -T.D.
  • “Thank you for your help and for an amazing semester. Your class has been one of the most helpful classes I have taken throughout my time at UMass.” -T.M. 

What past students have said about SOC BEHAV 250: College to Careers : 

SOC BEHAV 490C: Pathways to Career Success

Would you like to succeed in your professional journey after graduation?  Take this more advanced course, designed for students who have already taken SOC BEHAV 250. In this class, with a group of your peers, you will:

  • Examine the concepts of happiness, success, and thriving in careers
  • Refine application materials and develop an individual action plan for success
  • Practice salary negotiation strategies

In this course, students will critically examine the concepts of happiness, success, and thriving and apply those concepts in a career planning context. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, students will increase their awareness and understanding of their unique talents and skills and develop a career plan that aligns with their strengths, aspirations, and core values. In addition to active classroom discussion, critical reflection, and career planning exercises, the course activities will include refining application materials, practicing salary negotiation strategies, engaging in professional networking, and developing interviewing skills. Students in the course will be prepared to use the insights they gain to succeed in their professional journeys after graduation.

3 credits
Offered in Spring and Fall