Student Perceptions of the Development of Work Readiness in Australian Undergraduate Programs

I explored the perceived effectiveness of Australian undergraduate degree programs in preparing students for contemporary work. I examined student perceptions of program development of work-related knowledge and skills in Australia between 2013 and 2016 using national (N = 215,161) and institutional (N = 4,934) data. Variations in perceptions were investigated by discipline and for individual characteristics, including the completion of work-integrated learning (WIL). Findings suggest students perceive particular program aspects as reasonably successful for aiding workplace preparation. Reported variations for individual characteristics and by discipline question whether work readiness interventions are suitable for all students. WIL was identified as an important platform for preparing students for work.