Employment and corresponding influencing factors for undergraduates of applied university: A case study in China

Abstract

This study investigates the employment status and influencing factors among undergraduates of applied universities in China, focusing on 2024 graduates from a Sichuan university to identify key determinants of successful job placement. A mixed-methods approach was used combining quantitative survey data analysis with qualitative interviews. The survey gathered data on employment rates, job relevance to majors, and personal/educational factors while interviews provided deeper insights. The employment rate for 2024 graduates was 57.87%  with only 29.41% in major-related jobs. Significant and positive factors included awards, major understanding, internships, adaptability, and employment attitudes. Graduates with strong professional, interpersonal, and organizational skills had higher employment rates. Issues like insufficient practical knowledge, high employment expectations, weak employment awareness, and the mismatch between specialty settings and social needs were identified. A multifaceted approach addressing educational and personal development is essential to improve graduate employment outcomes in China's evolving economy. The study proposes an integrated employment education system involving government, universities, and society emphasizing practical ability cultivation, comprehensive and sustainable development, and equipping graduates with new quality productivity for employment.