The educational quality of universities in Mexico and their effectiveness in the labor field

Abstract

Higher education in Mexico has undergone significant changes following the 2020 pandemic, with an increase in the gross coverage rate from 42.1% to 43.8% in the 2023-2024 academic cycle and an enrollment of more than 5.2 million students in 2022-2023. Despite these advances, challenges persist in terms of educational quality and its relationship with the employability of graduates. This study aims to analyze how educational modalities influence perceived quality and the labor effectiveness of graduates from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The research employed a quantitative approach with a descriptive design, based on surveys conducted with 43 graduates from various undergraduate programs and educational modalities. The results highlight that 81.4% of respondents perceive that the study modality impacts their employability, although only 53.5% consider that their professional activities allow them to apply the knowledge acquired at university. Additionally, 62.8% have not completed their degree certification process, limiting their job opportunities. The study concludes that, although flexible modalities have expanded access to higher education, they need to be strengthened to ensure comprehensive preparation that meets labor market demands by optimizing administrative processes and promoting practical experiences