Career Development
Career Development / Career Communities / Education, Advocacy, Nonprofit Career Community

Education, Advocacy, Nonprofit Career Community

If you're drawn to this career community, chances are you are passionate about people, justice, and making a difference where it counts. Educators, advocates, organizers, cultural researchers, changemakers; explore the many ways that Willamette’s passionate voices and committed leaders step up to serve others and spark change. The skills that you build—collaboration, empathy, communication, and strategic thinking—can shape policy, empower communities, and drive vital missions forward. Whether you're working at the forefront of an organization or behind the scenes, you have the power to uplift, educate, and advocate for a more equitable world.

Potential Majors/Minors

The following are commonly chosen majors & minors, though any Willamette degree can prepare you for a career in this community.

The “Education, Advocacy, & Nonprofits” Career Community can lead students towards many different career paths. Here are some potential roles that students from this career community may find themselves interested in: 

  • Community Organizer
  • K-12 Teacher
  • Development Specialist
  • Museum Educator
  • Non-Profit Administration
  • Policy Advocate
  • Researcher, all disciplines
  • Social Worker
  • Survivor Advocate
  • University Professor
  • Volunteer Coordinator
  • Youth Development Specialist

Sample Work Settings

K-12 Schools (public and private), Academia/Higher Education, Environmental Education Programs, Non-profit Organizations, Community-Based Organizations (youth centers, food justice programs), Social Service Agencies, Philanthropic Organizations, Peace Corps

Transferable Skills and Knowledge

 

  • Educational theory & learning models
  • Community Engagement
  • Ethics & Accountability
  • Global/Cultural Fluency
  • Leadership
  • Persuasive Writing & Communication
  • Project Management
  • Public Speaking & Facilitation
  • Research
  • Social Justice Frameworks
  • Teaching & Instruction

 

 

Fast Facts

Individualized career advising helps WU students achieve goals throughout their college careers.

Photo of a smiling Willamette student in front of a city backdrop

  • 67% of WU Undergrads do at least one internship during their time at WU
  • 81% of graduates are either working or in graduate school 6 months after graduation
  • 20% of WU grads go directly to graduate or professional programs
  • 1300+ one on one career advising appointments completed per year in career development