Mapping employability: a decade of trends and insights from higher education through bibliometric analysis (2014–2024)

Purpose This study aims to investigate the evolution of employability research within higher education from 2014 to 2024, using the career capital framework to provide a multifaceted perspective on employability. Design/methodology/approach The data set, comprising 468 documents from 1,170 authors, was analyzed using VOSviewer and the Bibliometric package in R, which enabled the visualization of bibliometric networks and the identification of significant research trends and influential publications. Findings Key findings emphasize the critical role of higher education in developing employability and the impact of various forms of graduate capital. The study reveals a shift from a narrow focus on job attainment to a broader perspective that includes long-term career sustainability and adaptability. Research limitations/implications Future research should explore contextual factors and develop holistic employability models. Interdisciplinary approaches and policy-informing studies are also recommended to enhance graduate employability in a dynamic global labor market. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of employability, supporting the development of effective strategies for preparing individuals for successful and adaptable careers. Originality/value This study integrates the component of graduate capital with employability, providing a more sophisticated comprehension of employability that surpasses conventional measurements. Having this viewpoint is crucial for higher education institutions to provide graduates with the necessary skills for long-term professional success and flexibility in a continuously changing job market. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for the creation of educational programs and career services that can effectively equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the intricacies of the contemporary labor market.