Doctoral Career Pathways

What's the big world problem you want to solve? Explore your career pathway options, including academic and entrepreneurial careers.

2024 ACAP doctoral candidates at the University of Auckland

The middle of your doctoral journey is the ideal time to take advantage of the many opportunities available to candidates at the University of Auckland, including:

A wide variety of inspirational learning and development workshops are also on offer, including talks by popular international speakers Desiree Dickerson and Hugh Kearns

If you haven't yet decided on a doctoral career pathway, now is a good time to do so, and don't forget to keep an eye on the doctoral policies that apply to you. 

When things get tough, remember that there is an excellent support network available to you. You can find out more on our doctoral wellbeing and doctoral communities web pages.

Academic Career Development Pathway

This pathway focuses on the following key areas:
 
  • Academic publishing skills
  • Teaching and mentoring capabilities
  • Understanding the funding landscape and grant writing proficiency
  • Networking within academia
  • Research impact planning and monitoring
  • Leadership in academic contexts

Flagship Academic Programme: ACAP

The Academic Career Advancement Programme (ACAP) is the annual flagship programme for the Academic Career Development Pathway.

This sought-after year-long programme provides doctoral candidates at the University of Auckland with the opportunity to explore key aspects of academic life, build interdisciplinary relationships with academics across the University, and get a head start in the academic job market. 

Applications for 2027 open in August 2026. Learn more.

Entrepreneurial Career Development Pathway

This pathway focuses on the following key areas:

  • Innovation and commercialisation skills 
  • Development of an entrepreneurial mindset
  • Industry networking 
  • Project and time management
  • Communication skills 
  • Leadership 

Flagship Entrepreneurial Programme: DELP

The Doctoral Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme (DELP) is the annual flagship programme for the Entrepreneurial Career Development Pathway.

This popular year-long opportunity for University of Auckland doctoral candidates helps you expand your career thinking, connects you with innovators, and gives you entrepreneurial skills that create impact across any field.

Applications for 2027 open in August 2026. Learn more.