The Graduate Professionalism Academy (GPA) is an optional, flexible, self-paced and hybrid opportunity for graduate students to complete a certificate. In the process, students will:
> Enhance resumes/CVs.
> Develop lifelong personal and professional skills.
> Engage in current career trends and platforms.
> Network with SDSU and community professionals.
> Earn other certificates along the way.
What are the topic areas?
There are seven core competencies that make up the Graduate Professionalism Academy (GPA): Career Development, Leadership, Teaching, Communication, Research, Diversity and Advocacy, Wellness and Professional Development.
![Graph of the Seven Core Competencies](/sites/default/files/styles/body_width_scale_920px_width_/public/2022-07/PDP%20-%207%20core%20competencies.png?itok=kV_vySS3)
How do I earn the certificate?
There are four levels of completion: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. To earn each level, you'll need to complete the following:
- Bronze = Complete one module from each competency (Total = 7)
- Silver = Complete two modules from each competency (Total = 14)
- Gold = Complete three modules from each competency (Total = 21)
- Platinum = Complete four modules from each competency (Total = 28)
What are the types of modules?
The options for modules are diverse in order to fit your time and needs. You'll have the opportunity to choose from:
- Live events (e.g. workshops with leaders in industry, webinars).
- Recorded Workshops (e.g. TED talks, podcasts, videos).
- And, in some cases, count activities that you're already participating in, such as 3MT, GSR 601, presentations at conferences and more!
We are excited to collaborate with departments across campus and the Brookings community in order to provide for you relevant topic discussions that focus on professional and personal areas that we believe you need to know in order to leave SDSU not just prepared with an excellent education but also resources and experiences that will help you stand out and excel in your jobs and communities.
What are the benefits of completing the academy?
- Earn other credible certificates from SDSU and beyond!
- Networking opportunities within your industry and community.
- Important documents, experiences and skills to take with you into any career!
When is the deadline?
You can begin GPA at any time during your graduate career. The deadline each year to complete and receive the GPA certificate is the Second Friday of April, and awards will be presented at our annual Graduate Student Recognition Event. For Spring 2025, the deadline is April 11.
Again, this is OPTIONAL, but we really hope you decide to join the journey!
How do I enroll?
- On your D2L homepage, select Discover.
- Type the course name in the search bar - 'Graduate Student Professional Development Series.'
- Select Course, and click 'Enroll in Course.'
I have more questions - who do I contact?
If you have any other questions, please reach out:
- Look for more details on the D2L Professional Development Program Course
- Email the Graduate School - gradschl@sdstate.edu
- Call the Graduate Office at 605-688-4181
- Stop by Morrill Hall 130, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.