Equity in access and professional integration of university graduates

This project analyzes the employment insertion of university graduates in Catalonia in the context of the economic crisis and how this has influenced their transition into the labor market. The study observes two phases in the effect of the crisis on graduate employment: a first stage with an increase in unemployment but without a major loss of quality in the jobs held, and a second stage with a more pronounced deterioration in working conditions. In addition, the project investigates other factors such as simultaneous work and studies, the effects of university fees, and the impact of family resources on access to higher education.

OBJECTIVES
 The objectives of this study are:

  1. Analyze how the economic crisis has impacted the employment of university graduates, particularly with regard to the stability and quality of job positions.
  2. To examine the effect of combining studies and work on the subsequent employment of graduates, as well as their academic performance.
  3. Investigate how university reforms and fee increases affect access to university, especially for students from families with fewer resources.
  4. Evaluate the factors that influence the transition to higher education, with special attention to the influence of educational level and family economic resources.
  5. To highlight the persistent inequalities in the educational and professional trajectories of young people, aggravated by the effects of the economic crisis.

METHODOLOGY
The study combines quantitative and qualitative data to analyze the different aspects of graduates’ transition to the labor market and their access to higher education. University graduates in Catalonia are monitored, differentiating the stages of the economic crisis to observe changes in employment conditions. Data is collected on students who work while studying and their employment is compared with that of those who do not, taking into account the relationship between work and the studies carried out. Finally, the impact of the increase in university fees is analyzed and the differences in the paths to university according to the socioeconomic and educational level of the families are reviewed, highlighting inequalities in times of crisis.

LINK

Research team:

Helena Troiano (IP)
Sandra Fachelli
Jordi Planas
Albert Sanchez-Gelabert
Mijail Figueroa
Marina Elias
Dani Torrents
Lydia Daza