Student work competence and career readiness in higher education: a bibliometric review and theoretical contribution to work adjustment theory for career guidance

Purpose This study aims to map and analyse research trends on career readiness, career development, and employability among higher education students from 2015–2025 using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework. Design/methodology/approach A total of 39 Scopus-indexed articles were analysed through bibliometric and thematic approaches using VOSviewer 1.6.20 and qualitative interpretation. Findings The findings reveal three conceptual pillars: career development, career readiness, and employability, that form an integrative ecosystem linking educational, psychological, and technological dimensions. The study highlights a paradigm shift from structural to adaptive models, underscoring digital literacy, reflective learning, and socio-emotional resilience as key components of sustainable employability. Originality/value This study offers originality by developing the Tripartite Adaptive Employability Model (TAEM), which integrates cognitive, digital, and psychological dimensions to extend Work Adjustment Theory in the context of higher education and adaptive career guidance.