About the IPE
Expansion of the IPE Mission
The Institute for Professional Engagement (IPE) was created in 2007 and focused on providing student internships with non-profit organizations and funding career-oriented excursions through a formal grant process. See IPE History.
In August of 2011, a full-time director was hired to revitalize and expand the mission of the IPE to include the additional elements originally identified in the mission of the IPE.
Development of a scalable program structure to enable all UVU students to actively participate in career exploration, selection and preparation activities has been the focus of the IPE in 2011. CareerPassport, the resulting pilot program, will be launched fall semester, 2012.
Current IPE Mission Statement
The Institute for Professional Engagement assists students in actively engaging in career preparation while working towards a degree at Utah Valley University and focuses on the following four areas:
- Developing informed career decisions, knowledge, and skills
- Participation in hands-on, relevant professional experiences including career excursions
- Building meaningful mentoring relationships
- Developing professional career network connections
Program Stucture
Students actively participate in career exploration, selection and preparation activities through the CareerPassport Program. CareerPassport is a voluntary, non-credit, self-paced program that assists students in focusing on learning and applying career preparation principles versus grade attainment. The program enhances classroom learning and provides a direct connection and relevance from classroom to career.
The CareerPassport Program is delivered through five tracks:
Program elements include career-related activities, reflection assignments, the creation of career e-portfolios, mentoring experiences, networking activities and career excursions. Student may achieve certification status upon completion of track requirements and/or a diploma distinction in professional competency.