Higher education careers adviser : Training

Most entrants receive on-the-job training and attend short courses to build and update knowledge and skills. Training agreed will vary according to the individual's professional and personal development objectives, the specific role and the needs of the service. In-house training may be offered within the careers team and organised centrally by the institution. Large employers and professional bodies provide training opportunities for careers advisers related to their organisation/profession.

There are regular Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS)  training events, both national and regional, covering specific occupational areas, innovations within the guidance process, and professional issues. There are courses at all levels, suitable for new entrants and experienced staff alike. Topics are wide-ranging and may include such things as guidance theory, interviewing, group work, psychometric testing, marketing, presentation skills, working with postgraduates or international students, and careers in particular employment sectors.

It is possible to study for a Certificate, Diploma or Masters in Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance in Higher Education (CEIAG HE). These are offered by AGCAS in conjunction with the University of Warwick. The qualifications are aimed at guidance, careers education, information, and employer liaison staff and comprise a range of modules that can be obtained by attending short residential courses, completing project work and distance learning assignments. Entry to courses is open to all, based on experience and previous professional training. The certificate is for those without a relevant professional qualification or less than three years’ experience. The postgraduate diploma is for those with the certificate, other relevant professional qualifications or three years' HE careers work experience. The Masters is for those with the diploma through completion of a dissertation alone or for those without the diploma through completion of diploma modules and a dissertation over a longer period.