Perspectives on higher education and the labour market: review of international policy developments

In the context of the development of the Strategic Agenda Higher Education and Research 2011, the Dutch Ministry requested [Centre for Higher Education Policy Studies] CHEPS to explore international policy trends regarding the relationship between higher education (HE) and the labour market. This thematic report looks at a selective group of countries that are commonly involved in the CHEPS International Higher Education Monitor (IHEM). In particular we consider developments in Germany, France, the UK, Scandinavian countries (notably Sweden), Australia, and for certain aspects Austria and Switzerland. The aim is not to give a comprehensive overview of these countries, but to highlight certain aspects that were found most notable. This review does not cover what HE institutions are doing themselves in enhancing graduate employment, such as course development and revisions in bilateral agreements with employers and/ or respective professional bodies, setting up career services or activities for alumni. As government policies are playing a subordinate role in such matters, these are beyond the scope of this report. The actuality of the topic has been underlined by the European Commission when presenting the agenda for the modernization of Europe’s higher education systems. Employability is at heart of this new higher education reform strategy to boost graduate numbers, improve quality and relevance of higher education and generally maximise what higher education can do to help the [European Union] EU economy emerge stronger from the current crises.

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