Emerging Practices of University Career Centers. What Patterns are Most Conducive to Reducing Underemployment in College Graduates?

Abstract

Since the 1970’s concern over underemployment has grown among US college graduates. Contributing factors for underemployment are debated by scholars, yet universities struggle to provide employment prospects that are commensurate to students’ academic skill levels. Using career centers as a potential agent of change, this project identifies the most prevalent practices designed to improve employment opportunities for students and graduates. Followup research explores whether employers' financial participation in career center activities affects interactions or recharacterizes the intensity of their relationships. A onetime cross sectional analysis using national career center data reveals that career centers dedicate greater attention to student development than employer relations. Recognition of these patterns is needed to ascertain potential benefit or harm in career centeremployer relations. Findings are likely to suggest areas for future improvement for both actors.