STEM students’ self-perceptions of graduate employability: a gender, region, and gender-regional analysis in China

Abstract

Drawing on the framework of social cognitive career theory (SCCT), this work aims to understand whether self-perceived employability (PE) beliefs of STEM undergraduates in China differ by gender, region (urban/rural, and geographical divide), and/or gender-regional intersectionality. 1713 STEM undergraduates from multiple universities in China completed a self-reported questionnaire. Our findings showed that (i) gender impacts perceived employability (PE) such that men report higher PE than women; (ii) region impacts PE in such a way that urban regions report higher PE levels than their peers in rural regions; and (iii) intersectionality affects PE in such a way that women from rural regions report the lowest PE, then men from rural regions, then women from urban regions, with PE being highest for men from urban regions. The findings apply across three dimensions of PE: self-awareness (SPA), perceived program relevance (PPR), and career exploration and awareness (CEA). Theoretical contributions illuminate PE beliefs across gender, regional, and intersectional lines, pinpointing which PE belief dimensions need enhancement. Practical and policy implications suggest ways for individuals, higher education institutions, and society to address gender and regional inequalities, thereby bolstering STEM students' PE.