The structural validity of a new graduate work readiness scale

Purpose - Graduate Work Readiness (GWR) is central to graduate employment. Its multidimensional nature is established in the literature; however, it is complex and not well-understood. A recent exploratory study confirms a hierarchical organisation of four constructs: Cognitive, Metacognition, Intrapersonal, and Interpersonal, as well as associated skillsets. However, there is a gap in the literature about how these constructs are interrelated to produce work readiness-related skill behaviour. Understanding the interrelationships between GWR constructs can be useful for universities to create conducive learning conditions for skill development. Therefore, this study aims to validate the nomological network of a newly GWR model. Design/ methodology/ approach - We used partial least squares structural modelling to analyse data from a survey, using a validated 35-item scale (Peersia et al., 2025), with university students and graduates (n = 406). Findings - The findings revealed that the Intrapersonal and Metacognition constructs have both a strong predictive effect on the Cognitive and Interpersonal constructs, and the Intrapersonal construct also has a moderate effect on Metacognition. There is also an indirect effect of the intrapersonal construct on the Cognitive and Interpersonal constructs through the Metacognition construct. Originality/Value – The significance of this study lies in its deeper insights into GWR through a statistically valid structural model that can inform the teaching and learning of GWR skills for better skill development strategies.