Work-integrated learning and graduate employability through institute-industry collaboration: A TCCM approach in higher education

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are increasingly integrating employability outcomes into student learning experiences and curriculum design, leading to the development of work-integrated learning programs. These programs help students develop skills and attributes required for employability. Despite the increasing emphasis on work-integrated learning, existing research is fragmented and varies across disciplines, making it difficult to understand what and how work-integrated learning (WIL) leads to short-term outcomes of work-integrated learning and broader graduate employability. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to understand how WIL programs influence work readiness and graduate employability. To achieve this purpose, this research synthesises existing literature published between 2020 and 2025 retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases and arranged using the PRISMA protocol. The articles were subsequently analysed employing the TCCM framework. The framework helps analyse the Theories, Contexts, Characteristics and Methodologies that underpin existing studies. The findings reveal that there is a need for meaningful collaboration between HEIs-Industry to reduce disparities, ensure equitable and meaningful WIL experiences. The study consolidates the fragmented research across disciplines, maps the relevant theories, context relevant to the field and program characteristics needed for effective work readiness that support the transition of graduates into employment.