Perceptions of graduates regarding workplace expectations: An exploratory study

Abstract

This article outlines the results of a study which investigates the perceptions of graduates regarding workplace expectations. A literature study provides a theoretical foundation which explains the nature of graduates’ workplace expectations. An empirical survey was conducted, using a self-administered questionnaire, which was completed by prospective graduates at two tertiary institutions. This sample was selected in terms of the proposed restructuring of higher education institutions. Eleven null-hypotheses, investigating relationships between the dependent and independent variables, are tested by means of specific statistical methods, such as analysis of variance and correlation coefficients. The results showed highly significant differences between workplace expectations of graduates (dependent variables) and classification data (independent variables). Specific guidelines are provided to ensure the creation of more realistic graduate expectations before entering the workplace.