FOREIGN LITERATURE AND STUDIES

The study provided a unique opportunity to examine the extent to which the relationship

between higher education and the world of work are similar or different among the Western

European countries. This became clearer through the inclusion of one country each from the

Central and Eastern European countries and one country outside Europe. The study also helps

to understand the common elements and differences between various fields of study and

occupational areas. Last not least, the study allows examining the extent to which socio-

biographic backgrounds, educational experiences and achievements as well as transition

process determine early career and links between competencies and work assignment.

The aim of the research project ―Higher Education and Graduate Employment in

Europe was to analyse employment and work of graduates from institutions of higher education

in nine European countries during the first few years after graduation. The following objectives

were pursued. The analysis focused on the transition from higher education to employment and

on employment and work during the first four years after graduation. As educational paths were

identified retrospectively, the study allowed examining the trajectories over a substantial period

of the life-course. The study analysed inner dynamics the relative autonomy of the transition

process, i.e. the extent to which job search, the transitory employment and unemployment etc.

on the part of the graduates, guidance counselling and assistance in job search on the part of

higher education institutions and employment agencies, as well as recruitment policies on the

part of the employers, shape the graduates early career stages.

Altogether the project aimed to provide a solid comparative account on employment and

work of graduates from institutions of higher education in Europe. Information on employment

and work of graduates from institutions of higher educated is generally relevant for decision-
making by politicians, as a valuable information base both for employers and leaders, managers

and teachers in higher education, for educational and career decision-making by students.

Given the widespread consensus on the importance of such information, it is surprising to note

how scattered and weak the available information up to now is. This study provided for the first

time reliable comparative data making use of the potentials of Comparative Study.