American College Students' Career Readiness and the Impact on Their Income

• In Event: 63.039 - Nuances in Pathways to Postcollege Labor Market Outcomes

Abstract

This study examines the status of college-prepared career readiness (CPCR) and its impact on job income of American college students. A series of hierarchical linear models are adopted to address the effect of student- and institution-level variables. Results suggest that American students’ CPCR is affected by multiple student- and institution-level variables. CPCR plays the most important role in predicting students’ job income, at both student- and institution-level. Income gaps favoring male and students majoring in STEM fields are found at student level. Mean SES and research emphasis are associated with job income at institution level. The findings provide evidence for university-wide programs designed to boost students’ academic integration, and partnerships between STEM departments and predominantly minority or high-need school districts.

Authors

• Yin Wu, McGill University

• Jaekyung Lee, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Yang Yang, Qingdao University