At Nichols College Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC), you'll gain the skills, connections and confidence to launch a successful career you love.

Located in the Fels Student Center, the CPDC offers personalized career coaching, interview preparation, professional tools such as Handshake, Big Interview, and SkillsFirst and access to exclusive employer connections throughout New England and beyond.

Whether you’re exploring career options as a first-year studentsearching for your first internship or preparing for post-graduation employment, you’ll find the resources and guidance you need. From on-campus recruiting events to our professional clothing boutique, we’ve designed our services around one goal: helping you transition from classroom to career with self-assurance. Plus, our commitment doesn’t end at graduation—you’ll have lifetime access to all CPDC services as a Nichols alumnus.

Comprehensive Career Services Designed for Your Success

See how the Career and Professional Development Center can help you succeed.

Career Planning and Exploration

You don't need to have all the answers on day one. Our career coaches help you explore different paths, identify your strengths and develop a strategic plan that aligns with your goals. Through one-on-one coaching sessions, career assessments and industry research tools, you'll gain clarity about your future. We offer scheduled appointments to fit your needs, making it easy to get the guidance you need when you need it most.

Resume and Interview Preparation

First impressions matter. Our team helps you craft compelling resumes and cover letters that showcase your unique experience and skills. You'll also develop interview strategies through mock interviews and feedback sessions in our interview suites. We have two meeting rooms that students can reserve for their web based or phone interviews. Need professional attire in a pinch? Visit our Bison Boutique to borrow interview clothing for presentations, career fairs and job interviews.

Internship and Job Search Support

Finding the right opportunity is easier with the right support system. Our online jobs and internships board connects you with employers who are particularly familiar with and value Nichols students for internships and full-time positions. We'll help you navigate job search strategies, understand different industries and identify opportunities that match your career interests. Whether you're looking for a summer internship or a full-time position after graduation, we'll guide you through the application process from start to finish.

Connect With Employers Who Want to Hire You

Career and Internship Fairs

Every year, more than 70 employers visit campus specifically to meet Nichols students. Our Career and Internship Fair each February brings together diverse companies and organizations—from Kraft Sports Group to the United States Secret Service to Mohegan Sun and The Cigna Group. You’ll also have access to specialized recruiting events like our Business by the Numbers Fair in September, designed to connect you with employers in your specific field of study.

Master the Art of Professional Networking

Year-Round Networking Programs 

Networking is a Nichols-embraced and critical career skill that opens doors throughout your professional life. That’s why we offer structured networking opportunities throughout the year, starting from your sophomore year. At our Annual Second Year Success event you’ll connect with successful Nichols alumni who can offer guidance and potential internship opportunities. Our Career Exploration Nights feature alumni panels who share insider perspectives on the hiring process in their industries.

FAQ

FAQs About Our Career and Professional Development Center

When should I start using CPDC services?

We encourage first year students to explore career options, begin building their resumes and attend networking events. The earlier you engage with the CPDC, the more prepared you’ll be for internships and post-graduation employment.

Do I need an appointment to visit the CPDC?

We offer both scheduled appointments. Walk-in hours are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but we recommend scheduling an appointment for longer career planning sessions or resume reviews.

What is the Bison Boutique?

The Bison Boutique is our professional clothing and accessories resource where you can borrow brand-new interview attire for career fairs, interviews and professional presentations. This free service ensures all students have access to professional clothing when they need it most.

Can alumni use CPDC services?

Yes, all Nichols College alumni have lifetime access to CPDC services, including career advising, resume reviews, job search assistance and our wide array of licensed resources. Whether you graduated last year or decades ago, we’re here to support your career growth.

How many employers attend Nichols career fairs?

Our Career and Internship Fair attracts more than 60 employers to campus each year, representing diverse industries from finance and technology to sports management and public service. We also host specialized fairs focused on specific fields.

What kinds of companies recruit at Nichols?

We work with a wide range of employers, from Fortune 500 companies like CVS Health, Travelers and Cigna, to celebrated regional firms such as AAFCPAs, E-Clinical Works, Mohegan Sun and Kraft Sports Group, to important nonprofits like OU Inc., Boys and Girls Club and L.U.K Crisis Center. Our Central Massachusetts location provides strong connections to employers throughout Worcester County, Massachusetts and capital cities in New England, including Boston, Providence and Hartford.