Career Mapping of Undergraduate Students in Vijayapur District: An Educational to Occupational Transition

Abstract

This study investigates the career aspirations and economic awareness of final-year undergraduate students in Vijayapur District, Karnataka, to understand their educational-to-occupational transition. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys capturing socio-economic backgrounds, career preferences, awareness of government schemes, and economic knowledge. Findings reveal a strong preference for government jobs (57.4%), driven by job security and higher income. Awareness of government schemes is low (21.3%), and economic knowledge is limited, with only 29.8% aware of financial literacy concepts. Higher education’s role in career readiness is perceived as inadequate by 42.6% of students. The study highlights gaps between educational preparation and occupational aspirations, recommending enhanced career counselling and curriculum alignment with market needs. These findings contribute to understanding career mapping in semi-urban India, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.The study also highlights how enhancing career readiness and economic awareness among undergraduates can contribute to building a skilled workforce, supporting India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.