ORCID
- Fa Wang: 0009-0006-0549-0557
- Rong Huang: 0000-0002-6061-9329
- Wai Mun Lim: 0000-0002-3115-9175
- Jinhua Zhang: 0000-0002-0182-4306
Abstract
The quality of the UK’s doctorate training system plays a fundamental role in fostering vibrant research outputs and attracting global talent. However, while maintaining a consistently high standard of quality remains static and challenging, little is known about how the employability of international doctorate students is shaped and at what juncture it is opportune to support their employability during their research studies. This paper aims to understand the employability of international doctoral students within business schools at British universities, drawing on Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory as a framework. The qualitative study involves 15 international doctoral students from 9 business schools. The findings uncover various environmental systems impacting their employability. In addition, this study theoretically extends employability research by applying Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory to provide a multi-layered understanding of international doctorate employability, offering a novel framework for targeted career support interventions. Further, the implications highlight the urgent need for tailored support to build industrial connections, promote departmental collaboration to scaffold a dynamic research environment, proffer multiple resource channels, and create employment opportunities both inside and outside of the university.
DOI
10.1080/03075079.20242412833
Publication Date
2024-10-10
Publication Title
Studies in Higher Education
ISSN
0307-5079
Keywords
international doctorate student, employability, ecological systems theory, UK
Recommended Citation
Wang, F., Huang, R., Lim, W., & Zhang, J. (2024) 'Perceived employability of international doctoral students in the UK: applying Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory', Studies in Higher Education, . Available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.20242412833
