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Industry driven or institutionally defined? A critical analysis of graduate attributes alignment and integration in HRM programme

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The integration of graduate attributes into higher education curricula is essential for enhancing graduate employability, particularly in Universities of Technology (UoTs). This study examines the integration and alignment of graduate attributes within a Human Resource Management (HRM) diploma at a South African UoT, focusing on their relevance to industry expectations and institutional objectives. Guided by Legitimation Code Theory (LCT), the study employed a qualitative case study design, drawing on semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and programmatic mapping. Analysis followed the Gioia Methodology. Findings reveal strong industry influence (RA-), which ensures relevance but constrains academic autonomy. Graduate attributes are progressively embedded, with emphasis on applied learning (SG+, MaD+) over theoretical depth (SD-), raising concerns of over-specialisation. While ethics and professionalism are foregrounded, transformative and civic-oriented outcomes receive less emphasis. The study recommends strengthening interdisciplinary competencies and balancing employability imperatives with broader educational goals.

Source: Industry and Higher Education

DOI: 10.1177/09504222251388187

Authors: Mashango Phillemon Sithole, Sarasvathie Reddy

Institutions: University of Limpopo, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Language: English

Topic: Higher Education and Employability

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650