Careers in International Organizations
Examine career options with international organizations like the United Nations. Find student opportunities and application tips for the application process.
Careers in the United Nations
Career Options in the UN
Key Areas
- Peace & Security
- Human Rights
- Humanitarian Affairs
- Development
- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is large and has many options.
- Junior Professionals Officer Programme (JPO) - become staff member, not extremely competitive.
- One year contracts for experienced candidates looking for a career change.
- Become a translator, interpreter, or editor.
- Must perfectly know 3 of the 6 UN languages:
- Russian
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Chinese
- or Arabic
- Individual contracts that work with professionals in the desired field.
Student Opportunities
Take a test, placed on a list, called for jobs.
- Must obtain advanced univeristy (ie Master's degree) by the end of the application period.
- Designed mainly for applicants from poorly represented countries in the UN.
Volunteers (over the age of 25) and Youth Volunteers (18-29 years of age) are paid for a certain period of time in their selected country.
These are unpaid, and employment after the internship is prohibited. Great way to get experience.
Application Tips
Remember...
Permanent posts are competitive and require several diplomas and fluency in a few languages.
Be Determined
You must be determined to be accepted. You will have to apply many times, and will not be accepted immediately.
Experience Counts
Having experience with internships and think tanks is always helpful.
Master's Degree Is Key
For even entry-level positions, Master's degrees are required.
- Many positions are in development and humanitarian work, but a variety of educational backgrounds is beneficial.
- The key is to get a master's degree in a program that you are passionate in, and there will be a place for you at the UN.
Stand Out
Have a good cover letter. Include special skills - what makes you stand out.
Be Prepared
Know the . They will ask for examples, so have personal stories ready.
More Info...
For more information visit the page.