Between studying Social Sciences and Humanities and the requirements of labour markets: The example of three universities from Central Europe

This study examines the compatibility of higher education in Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) with labour market requirements. It focuses on three Central European universities and explores the importance of soft skills for students and employers. The study also investigates the impact of work experience on academic achievement and student’s satisfaction with their chosen field of study. From October to December 2022, a survey was conducted on 1,382 SSH students from the University of Hradec Králové (Czech Republic), Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan (Poland), and Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra (Slovakia). Using a two-stage sampling procedure, the survey was conducted using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) on the Qualtrics XM platform. In education, students focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while employers value these skills as well as interpersonal communication and creativity. The research emphasises the importance of including soft skills in academic programs to meet job market needs. It highlights the gap between students’ skills and employers’ expectations, calling for universities to adapt their offerings. It also argues for support systems for working students and ongoing assessment of educational pathways. This study aims to increase understanding of the relationship between higher education and labour markets in Central Europe, an area often overlooked in academic research.