Doctoral education and future employment: An investigation of students’ voices and experiences through the lens of identity and capital

Abstract

This thesis employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate the link between doctoral study and future employment through students' perspectives and experiences. It explores how doctoral students perceive the value of their degree for future employment, how their experiences in managing employability vary, and what factors shape their orientation towards different labour markets.

Using the lens of capital, including social and cultural capital from Tomlinson's (2017) graduate capital model, and the 'identity under construction' perspective (McAlpine and Amundsen, 2018), the study surveyed doctoral students (N=143) and conducted semi-structured interviews (N=30) to assess their perceptions and experiences. 

The research reveals both utilitarian and intrinsic views on pursuing a doctoral degree for future careers, with country-specific job market dynamics mediating the perceived utility. This perception influences students' approaches to developing social and cultural capital during their studies. The study also highlights the significant impact of interactions with social and research milieu on capital development, mediated by generational transfer of capital, geo-social differences, and resource allocation disparities.

Regarding future career orientations, the study examines the divide between academic and wider job markets, considering personal and external factors. Career values, social class, and national policy climate emerge as key mediators driving these orientations.

The research generates four main typologies of students' future career orientations: strategic careerists, expressive careerists credentialists, and external engagers. This understanding of identity negotiation and diverse approaches to doctoral study and future careers may offer practical implications for stakeholders in matching future researchers with suitable positions, maximizing the potential of this highly skilled workforce. 

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