Abstract 

Employers overwhelmingly endorse broad learning as the best preparation for long-term career success. They believe that broad learning should be an expected part of college for all students, regardless of their chosen major or field of study. When hiring recent college graduates, employers say they place the greatest priority on a demonstrated proficiency in skills and knowledge that cut across majors. Written and oral communication skills, teamwork skills, ethical decision-making, critical thinking skills, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings are the most highly valued among the 17 skills and knowledge areas tested. Employers broadly endorse an emphasis on applied learning in college today. They believe that engaging students in applied learning projects would improve learning and better prepare them for career success. College students agree with employers on the career value of broad learning and cross-cutting skills. Employers are more likely than college students to see room for colleges and universities to improve in ensuring graduates possess the full set of skills and knowledge needed for success. Many employers feel that college graduates are falling short in their preparedness in several areas, including the ones employers deem most important for workplace success. College students are notably more optimistic about their level of preparedness across learning outcomes, however. Employers say that, when evaluating a job candidate, it would be helpful for them to have access to an electronic portfolio summarizing and demonstrating the individual’s accomplishments in key skill and knowledge areas, in addition to a résumé and college transcript.