Uncertain tomorrows: what is the role of career competencies in university students’ future anxiety?

Ünal A., Görgülü Z., Bozgeyikli H.

Higher Education Research and Development, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/07294360.2026.2615300
  • Journal Name: Higher Education Research and Development
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Psycinfo
  • Keywords: Career competencies, career counseling, career development, future anxiety, higher education students
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between career competencies and future anxiety among higher education students. In this regard, a correlational study was conducted. The study included 388 higher education students (291 women, 97 men) from public universities in Turkiye, obtained through convenience sampling. In the research, a personal information form, the Career Competencies Scale, and the Future Anxiety Scale were used as data collection tools. Structural equation modeling was used. The results showed that the data fit the model adequately. Accordingly, career control and social networking negatively and significantly predicted despair of the future, and career control negatively and significantly predicted future fear. However, the competencies of reflection on motivation, reflection on qualities, work exploration, and self-profiling did not emerge as significant predictors of future anxiety. The results are discussed in the literature, and implications are provided for career counselors, higher education institutes, and policymakers.