Explore New Roles to Reach Your Career Goals

Welcome to Kennesaw State University’s Internal Mobility Program—an initiative designed to support and empower our staff member’s professional development and career growth within the university. Through mentorship and internship programs, job shadowing, apprenticeships, and career development opportunities, this program fosters an environment where staff can explore new roles, build skills, and achieve their career goals. Whether you're looking to advance within your current field or explore new paths, the Internal Mobility Program is here to guide you on your journey.

Internal Mobility at KSU refers to the intentional movement of employees (vertically and laterally) within the university to different roles, responsibilities or projects, enabling growth, learning, and career progression.

large group of faculty in a room learning about the internal mobility program.

Eligibility & Guidelines

Below are the qualifications and requirements that employees must meet to be considered eligible for stretch assignments (within or outside of department) or other internal mobility activity. While participating, it's important to familiarize yourself with the expectations for employees and departments during the duration of the program (e.g., time commitment, maintaining regular duties). 

    • Employment Status: Employees must be in a regular full-time position. 
    • Length of Service: Employees should have completed a minimum service period of 1 year in their current position before being eligible to apply for internal mobility opportunities.​ 
    • Performance: Employees must be in good standing. Have a successful (3) rating or higher in their current position, as evidenced by the most recent performance evaluation. *Expectation during a stretch assignment, employee must continue to be successful in the performance of their current job responsibilities. 
    • Interest and Aspiration: Employees should demonstrate a genuine interest in professional growth and development, as well as a willingness to take on new challenges and expand their skill set.​ 
    • Managerial Support: Employees must have the support and endorsement of their current leadership including direct manager to pursue a stretch assignment. This ensures alignment with departmental goals and objectives.  ​ 
    • Skills and Competencies: While employees may not possess all the skills and competencies required for the stretch assignment, they should demonstrate the potential to acquire them through experience. 
    • Learning Goals: Employees should have clearly defined learning goals and objectives for the stretch assignment, outlining what they hope to gain from the experience and how it aligns with their career aspirations. *Will be documented in the goals section of the performance review and rated.  
    • Duration and Commitment: Employees must be willing to commit the necessary time and effort to successfully complete the stretch assignment, which may involve temporary reassignment or additional responsibilities. *Can be revoked at any time if necessary. 
    • Feedback and Evaluation: Employees should be open to receiving feedback and constructive criticism throughout the duration of the stretch assignment, with a focus on continuous improvement and professional development. 

Programs

Explore professional growth and development through our tailored Internal Mobility programs at KSU. From hands-on apprenticeships and immersive job shadowing opportunities to guided mentorship experiences, we offer pathways to enhance skills, gain valuable insights, and advance your career. Whether you're seeking to build expertise, explore new roles, or develop leadership abilities, these programs are designed to support your advancement every step of the way.

  • Our apprenticeship programs offer our staff a hands-on, immersive learning experience, combining practical work with formal training to develop specialized skills in various fields. These structured apprenticeships provide staff with the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge, build competencies, and earn qualifications while working alongside experienced professionals. This opportunity is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their expertise and make a meaningful impact within our institution. 

  • Short-Term Job Shadowing (4 weeks or less): offers staff a unique opportunity to gain insights into different roles within the university over a brief period. The short-term job shadowing opportunity is designed to provide participating staff with a broad understanding of various functions and departments, helping them explore potential career paths and expand their knowledge. Whether you are considering a transition to a new role or interested in another department’s work, this program allows for meaningful learning without a long-term commitment. 

    Long-term Job Shadowing (8-12 weeks): offers staff an immersive experience designed to provide in-depth exposure to different roles, departments, and functions within the university. Participants will work closely with experienced professionals, gaining firsthand insight into the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and skills required for various positions. This program is perfect for individuals looking to explore new career paths, expand their knowledge, or develop skills that complement their current role.

    Job Shadowing Process:

    1. Review Available Opportunities: Browse the list of participating departments and available roles for shadowing. 

    2. Submit an application: Complete the online application form which asks your current role, schedule/availability, interests, and what you hope to gain from the experience. 

    3. Manager approval required: Ensure your application is reviewed and approved by your direct supervisor. 

    4. Placement and Schedule: Once approved, you will be assigned a shadowing experience based on availability and preferences. 

    5. Participate and Reflect: Engage in your job shadowing experience and, at the conclusion, provide feedback on the experience to support future program improvements. 

  • KSU has structured mentorship programs to provide our staff with a guided, long-term development experience. Participants are matched with experienced mentors who offer personalized support, career advice, and skill-building opportunities.

    This program follows a defined timeline, with clear goals and milestones to help mentees navigate their career growth. These programs are ideal for staff seeking a focused path to achieve specific professional objectives or to develop leadership skills.