A lacuna entre academia e mercado de trabalho: a percepção de discentes do curso de Administração na Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC)

Abstract

The training in Business Administration has been challenged by technological changes, the reconfiguration of business models, and new demands regarding the technical and behavioral competencies required in the workplace. In this context, this study investigated the possible gaps between academic education and the demands of the contemporary labor market, based on the perceptions of undergraduate students enrolled in a Business Administration program at a public university. The objective was to analyze the perceptions of students in the undergraduate Business Administration program at a public university regarding potential gaps between academic training and the requirements of the contemporary labor market. This is an applied study with a qualitative approach and an exploratory and descriptive design, conducted through bibliographic research and a field survey using a structured questionnaire. The evidence indicated that the program provides a consistent conceptual foundation and contributes to the development of analytical and critical thinking; however, weaknesses were identified in the articulation between theory and practice, in proficiency with digital tools, and in the

systematization of behavioral competencies, such as leadership, communication, and decision- making. It was observed that practical qualification and some of the competencies valued by

the labor market have often been developed through initiatives external to the curriculum and through extracurricular experiences. It is concluded that, according to students’ perceptions, the analyzed training shows partial alignment with the demands of the contemporary labor market, indicating the need to strengthen applied practices, integration with organizations, and the structured development of technical and behavioral competencies.