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The Need for Work-Linked Degrees
Context:
A recent survey by TeamLease EdTech has revealed that despite high demand, only 2% of higher education institutions (HEIs) in India currently offer work-linked degrees. This highlights a significant gap between student aspirations and the offerings of educational institutions.
Work-linked degrees are educational programs that incorporate internships, apprenticeships, or part-time work related to the student’s field of study. This model allows students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world scenarios, gaining practical skills and professional experience.
Key Highlights of Report:
- High Demand: The survey, which included over 10,000 students aged 17 to 24, found that 93% of students are aware of work-linked degrees, and 85% endorse them as the future of higher education.
- Student Preferences: Around 80% of students believe that work experience on their CVs will improve their chances of securing high-paying jobs, and 40% identify financial independence as a key driver behind their preference for work-linked degrees.
- Flexibility and Mentorship: 66% of students valued flexibility in learning schedules, and 56% were drawn to on-the-job mentorship.
Benefits of Work-Linked Degrees:
- Enhanced Employability: Students graduate with practical experience, making them more attractive to potential employers.
- Skill Development: Hands-on experience helps students develop industry-specific skills that are often not covered in traditional academic programs.
- Industry-Academia Collaboration: These programs foster closer ties between educational institutions and industries, ensuring that curricula are aligned with current job market needs.
- Reduced Skill Gaps: By integrating work experience with education, these programs help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application.
Challenges and Opportunities:
- Curriculum Lag: Experts attribute the low adoption rate to a time lag in upgrading the curriculum, weak industry connections, and an overall shortage of faculty.
- India’s Global Employability Rankings: According to the Times Higher Education’s global employability university ranking (2025), only three Indian institutes (IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and Indian Institute of Science) made it into the top 100.
- Transformative Potential: Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, emphasised that work-linked programmes are a transformative model that empowers students with industry-relevant skills while creating a credible pipeline of job-ready talent.
Calls for Change:
- Adapting to NEP 2020 and Emerging Needs: The survey suggests that HEIs should adopt more flexible, skill-oriented programs aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to meet the emerging aspirations of students.
- Strategic Response: Work-linked degrees are not just a trend but a strategic response to the evolving job market, where adaptability and practical expertise are as important as traditional academic credentials.
