Research of the students’ and alumni’s career choices and their wishes for career guidance During the studies in TAMK

Abstract

This thesis was commissioned by TAMK Career Services and Nopeasti Töihin project and the purpose of this thesis was to better understand the thoughts and feelings of the students and alumni in TAMK about their career plans and career guidance during studies. Based on the findings, the purpose is to develop career guidance services available to the students and alumni of TAMK.

The objective of this thesis was to gather valuable information of the students’ and alumni’s career choices, thoughts about their career paths and the factors that have had an impact on their decision when choosing a career. Another objective of this thesis was to get information about the students’ and alumni’s needs and wants concerning career guidance and different career services available for them.

To meet the objectives set for the thesis, the data was gathered via a survey that was divided into three categories: 1st and 2nd year students, 3rd and 4th year students and alumni. The survey was both quantitative and qualitative since it consisted of close-ended and open-ended questions. The quantitative data was analysed by using descriptive statistical analysis method and the qualitative data was analysed by using content analysis. The total number of responses to the survey was 57.

The topic of this thesis is very important, since different career guidance services can be vital for many students and alumni when choosing a career, choosing study modules, applying for jobs, and navigating life after graduating. It is important to keep the career guidance services up to date and to offer all the necessary services for students and alumni in need. In the future, broader research should be conducted concerning the topic to gather more detailed and accurate information. In addition, currently available services should be marketed more visible to reach the target group.