Employability development and career outcomes from short-term learning abroad programmes

Learning abroad has become a central component in the internationalisation strategies of many Australian universities, following trends in other countries such as France, Germany, USA, Singapore and Japan. To expand access to different types of students and to diversify host destinations, short-term programmes have been the focus of institutions over the last five years. However, little is known about the outcomes of short-term learning abroad programmes. This article explores the connection between short-term learning abroad experiences, career outcomes and employability skills development of graduates in the Australian context. In the first national study of learning abroad outcomes, most former participants were positive about the perceived benefits provided by their international study experiences in terms of their employment outcomes. Respondents strongly supported the role of learning abroad in the development of core employability skills. The findings confirm an amplified impact on participants in internship programmes and multiple learning abroad programmes. The results of this study support the further development of short-term learning abroad opportunities for students, with considerations for access to programmes for those from underrepresented backgrounds.