Home or abroad? Irish students' attitudes towards employment prospects

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Authors
Doyle, Katie
Issue Date
2011
Degree
BA (Hons) in Social Science
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights
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Abstract
The extent of unemployment in Ireland today is of great concern, more particularly because the Irish economy enjoyed a prolonged period of growth, far in excess of European counterparts, which resulted in the lowest unemployment figures for decades. This study explores the attitudes and views of young graduates towards their career prospects in post Celtic Tiger Ireland, including their views on emigration. Qualitative research methods were used and the transcribed data was examined using thematic analysis technique. Six students took part in the survey which was structured around a set of semi-structured questions. A dictaphone was used to gather the data which was then transcribed. The research concluded that students were aware of the economic downturn and the unemployment crisis that has ensued. The results showed that participants now considered their best prospects for career development lay abroad, although they considered this option as a temporary measure. In addition students were critical of the education system as a preparatory mechanism for entering the workplace. Students also expressed a strong desire to remain within their chosen career path despite the bleak outlook. Author keywords: Employment prospects, unemployment, emigration, migration, education