Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Brian Wooten
Department
BCOE – Educational Leadership
Abstract
Although a bachelor's degree is commonly viewed as a pathway to career success, many students graduate without the practical skills and real-world knowledge needed to thrive in the workplace (Song, 2025). Employers are placing greater importance on critical thinking and soft skills such as communication and collaboration—areas that traditional academic programs may not always prioritize. In spring 2025, a multi-institutional team developed and completed a research study evaluating the curriculum of a course focused on preparing students for the workforce. Individuals in business, government and/or non-profit communities reviewed the current course curriculum and offered insight for emerging trends needed to support the success of the students as they enter the work world. The survey included eight major areas: work essential skills, graduate readiness for workforce entry, understanding personal motivations and values, identifying strengths and growth areas, understanding organizational culture, behaviors that support early career success, the value of mentoring, and navigating workplace culture. Preliminary findings (N = 128) revealed that most respondents had over six years of professional experience and emphasized the growing need for employees who demonstrate adaptability, communication, and leadership skills. Respondents also underscored the importance of understanding workplace culture and aligning personal values with organizational goals. Results from the study will be shared as well as an overview of identified trends for better preparing students for work after degree attainment will be discussed.
Disciplines
Curriculum and Instruction | Curriculum and Social Inquiry | Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Curriculum and Social Inquiry Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons
Empowering Students for Success in the Workplace
Although a bachelor's degree is commonly viewed as a pathway to career success, many students graduate without the practical skills and real-world knowledge needed to thrive in the workplace (Song, 2025). Employers are placing greater importance on critical thinking and soft skills such as communication and collaboration—areas that traditional academic programs may not always prioritize. In spring 2025, a multi-institutional team developed and completed a research study evaluating the curriculum of a course focused on preparing students for the workforce. Individuals in business, government and/or non-profit communities reviewed the current course curriculum and offered insight for emerging trends needed to support the success of the students as they enter the work world. The survey included eight major areas: work essential skills, graduate readiness for workforce entry, understanding personal motivations and values, identifying strengths and growth areas, understanding organizational culture, behaviors that support early career success, the value of mentoring, and navigating workplace culture. Preliminary findings (N = 128) revealed that most respondents had over six years of professional experience and emphasized the growing need for employees who demonstrate adaptability, communication, and leadership skills. Respondents also underscored the importance of understanding workplace culture and aligning personal values with organizational goals. Results from the study will be shared as well as an overview of identified trends for better preparing students for work after degree attainment will be discussed.