Vocational education and training (VET) qualifications enable graduates to be more job ready compared to graduates with higher education qualifications, according to the latest research from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER). Over time, however, graduates with higher education qualifications tend to have higher pay, more autonomy, and more opportunities for career progression.
VET and higher education pathways – do outcomes differ for the same occupation? examined the employment outcomes of individuals with VET qualifications and those with higher education qualifications, focusing on four selected occupations, to evaluate if they are doing the same tasks and have the same salary and career outcomes.
The research also found that employers actively recruit for and employ both VET and higher education qualified individuals. For them, experience, skills and fit with the company are often more important than the qualification when assessing candidates for positions.
Another research finding was that VET and higher education qualified individuals in the same occupation are equally satisfied with their job, including work life balance, hours of work and job security.
Background
VET and higher education pathways – do outcomes differ for the same occupation? examined the employment outcomes of individuals with VET qualifications and those with higher education qualifications employed in the same occupations to see if they are doing the same tasks and receiving the same job outcomes, such as salary and career pathways.
The research used data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey and conducted interviews with employers focused on four occupations: childcare workers, surveyors, graphic designers and medical laboratory technicians.
Download: VET and higher education pathways – do outcomes differ for the same occupation?
Enquiries: Mariane Umali M: 0406 824 184 E: marianeumali@ncver.edu.au
About NCVER: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions. This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.