Between adaptation and equity.Access to the labour market for non-traditional students and graduates1

Abstract

This article focuses on non-traditional students and graduates in their transition to the labour market, from sociological theories of cultural capital. A qualitative methodology has been employed, with 40 interviews conducted with non-traditional students and graduates, employers and university staff. Three themes are explored in the analysis: (i) requirements and skills demanded in the selection processes; (ii) barriers faced in the labour insertion; (iii) limitations in the selection processes regarding equity. The results show that access to skilled employment is limited by legitimate forms of cultural and social capital managed by employers, which may be detrimental for non-traditional graduates. The need to improve recognition of the specific profiles of non-traditional graduates has also become apparent. It is recommended that the deficit approach be changed and that employers be held accountable for improving their practices and policies regarding access to employment, guided by equity and social justice as ethical benchmarks.