Employability of graduates of Faculty of Business Administration at the University of Economics, Prague

Author in this thesis studies employability of Faculty of Business Administration at the University of Economics, Prague alumni. The first objective of the study is to provide insights into careers of the alumni and the factors that shape them. The second, is to study the requirements on graduates and skills gaps based on inputs from alumni as well as from interviewed employers. Data was collected with surveys among 850 faculty alumni and semi-structured interviews with employers. Based on the quantitative data, employability trends were described, and factors were statistically tested for significance. By contrasting opinions of alumni and employers, mostly demanded skills were listed and skills gaps were identified. Overall, it was concluded that alumni most frequently occupy positions as specialists, junior and senior managers. Alumni find employment predominantly in multinational corporations. However, it was observed that in smaller companies, alumni have higher positions. Other factors that have impact on alumni salaries and positions are years from graduation and satisfaction with their studies. Furthermore, the minors that graduates take does influence the sector and field they found employment in. The research among employers suggests that employers put more emphasis on soft skills, personality and attitude rather than hard skills during recruiting processes. Research suggests working experience is welcomed but not essential at graduate level positions. While alumni frequently demanded more practical experience, employers suggested setting right expectations, which confirms trends found in literature. Graduates tend to put higher emphasis on working experience and neglect the importance of attitude and soft skills.