Abstract

This 6 month project evaluated perceptions of the employability value of Social Science courses held by pre-university students and their parents.1 Through the research findings from three regional schools, parental and pre-entry student‟s expectations and perceptions were assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Findings indicated that there were a number of themes including the availability of university places, financial commitments with clear reflection on the increased fees, and return on investment offered from a course and employability after graduation. Parents were more concerned with long term opportunities offering the students to „grow as a person‟. Pre-entry students highlighted the importance of skills and competences within a degree, the issue of employability and a degree improving their career opportunities, but still were keen to experience „university life‟. Parents, schools and family/friends were important as sources of information and guidance for pre-entry students.