Specialist Graduate Programs

Each of the specialist graduate programs has its own process and timing for applications. This section outlines how and when you can apply for the Rail Engineering Graduate Program, the Science Graduate Program and the Auditor-General Graduate Program.

Applying to the Rail Engineering Graduate Program

This program is offered through the Department of Transport (DOT).

The application process for the 2010 program begins in April/May 2009. Full details of the process will be available on the Department of Transport website at www.transport.vic.gov.au/ early in 2009.

The application process involves three stages.

Application form	You complete an application form and send this with a current copy of your resume, academic record and a response addressing the selection criteria
Assessment centre	Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a half-day session at an assessment centre
Panel interview	A further short list of applicants will be invited for a panel interview.

For further information on the Department of Transport Rail Engineering Graduate Program, contact the Department of Transport.

Applying to the Science Graduate Program

The Department of Primary Industries and the Department of Sustainability and Environment recruit in different areas each year depending on their organisational needs and current government policy.

Over the years, graduates have been employed in salinity and biodiversity, fire management, pest management, pest research, natural resource planning, land use planning, compliance, and native vegetation.

Eligibility for the science graduate program

To apply to the 2010 Graduate Program you must:

• be an Australian permanent resident or a citizen of New Zealand
• have completed your undergraduate degree in a relevant field (natural resource management, science or other related profession) within the last four years
• have a minimum of a Bachelors Degree in the field specified in the position description
• have your degree certified to meet the Australian equivalent, if it is from an international university

.Application process

The recruitment process for the Science Graduate Program consists of three stages – the application, the assessment centre and the interview.

Stage	What happens	Tips
Application	You are able to submit your applications online. We use your application to shortlist for the second stage of the application process (assessment centre) – so take the time to develop your answers to the key selection criteria. You will also be asked to attach your resume and an electronic copy of your academic transcript – size limits apply.	Plan your answers to the key selection criteria. Develop your responses in Word or Notepad, then simply copy and paste into the electronic application form. Show us that you have the skills we're looking for by giving multifaceted examples. Apply as early as possible. The system will close at 5pm on the closing date. Try and obtain your transcript early; often universities cannot provide this document immediately.
Assessment centre	If you are successfully shortlisted, you'll be invited to attend a one-day session at an assessment centre in Melbourne. This session is designed so you can showcase your skills in a variety of different environments. You'll be asked to complete a series of abstract, numeric and verbal reasoning tests (often called psychometric tests). Later in the day you will work in groups to develop answers to specific scenarios, complete a written report, and do a group presentation. All these tasks show us how you work in a group and as a leader. We try and make the environment as comfortable as possible so you can demonstrate your skills.	If you would like some help to prepare for psychometric testing your university careers staff can help.
Interview	The final part of the selection process is the interview. (We usually take two or three people for each role through to this final stage.) The interview gives you the chance to elaborate on your skills and achievements. You can also tell us about challenges you've faced and problems you've solved.	Take the opportunity to find out who is on the interview panel. Think about questions you want to ask about the job. Be yourself. We’re looking for a range of different personalities to fit into our teams. Be honest.

Applying to the Auditor-General Graduate Program

This program is offered through the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office. Information on how to apply for the Auditor-General Graduate Program will be available on the Auditor-General web site www.audit.vic.gov.au/ prior to the application open date.