A PhD programme at Erasmus University Rotterdam involves more than just research and writing a dissertation. It's also a period dedicated to personal development, career orientation, and strengthening and maintaining your well-being.
Learning and Development
During your PhD, you should pay attention to developing transferable skills that are relevant both within and outside the academic world.
The Training and Development Platform (TOP) offers generic soft skills training, including courses in collaboration, leadership, communication, and personal effectiveness. These courses support your daily work performance and are relevant in various professional contexts. TOP also offers training specifically designed for PhD candidates, such as the Career Swifters program and courses focused on daily functioning, including dealing with perfectionism and procrastination.
In addition to the regular courses, it's possible to submit a customized request for individual learning and development needs. TOP supports this with advice and appropriate learning solutions.
GoodHabitz also offers an online learning platform with training courses, assessments, masterclasses, and short learning sessions. This platform supports flexible learning and enables you to work on skills at your own pace.
Career Coaching
Within EUR, career coaches are available to support your personal development and any questions you may have about your career. Career coaching provides opportunities for reflection on personal motivations, talents, competencies, and potential career paths, both within and outside academia.
Some people use career coaching early on to explore and reflect, while others utilise it when they have to make concrete choices or take next steps.
Career event
Career & Wellbeing Month is an annual event that supports PhD candidates in their professional development and well-being, with a wide range of information, inspiration, and practical tools.
Mental health and well-being
PhD candidates can use OpenUp, an online mental health and lifestyle support platform. Through OpenUp you can talk to psychologists and lifestyle experts, get health checks, attend webinars, or take part in self-help programmes.
Time and budget for development
Within the EUR, various facilities are available to invest in your professional development.
The Personal Career Budget (PCB) is €500 per year (including taxes) and can be used for work-related development that contributes to your position in the job market. This budget can be saved for a maximum of three years.
In addition, there is room for development days (three days per year, prorated to the duration of employment). These days can be used for training, coaching, or other development activities, in consultation with your manager.