Iranian Journal of Engineering Education

Designing a Retention Model for Engineering Graduates of Universities and Higher Education Institutions

Articles in Press

Document Type : Scientific - Research

Authors

Zahra Sanati 1
Mohammad Hassan 1
Reza Fathi 2

1 Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

2 Department of Energy, Materials and Energy Research Center, Karaj, Iran

10.22047/ijee.2025.553552.2217
Abstract
Considering the increasing trend of engineering graduate attrition in recent years, the present study aimed to design a retention model for engineering graduates in universities and higher education institutions. This qualitative research was conducted with a data-based theorizing approach and with the participation of 30 professors, experts, and managers in the field of engineering, who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured and in-depth interviews and analyzed using qualitative content analysis in three stages of open, axial, and selective coding in MAXQDA 20 software. From a total of 805 initial codes, 32 concepts were extracted by merging similar concepts and organized within the framework of the paradigmatic model of grounded theory. The results of the research show that the phenomenon of engineering graduate retention is influenced by a set of causal conditions, contextual conditions, and intervening conditions and it is realized through strategies such as empowering knowledge-based companies, leadership and management in the industry, innovative development, optimizing employment or career paths, reforming the educational system, and creating a social and cultural platform. The consequences of this model include scientific transformation and innovation, economic and industrial development, and the preservation and development of capital.

Keywords

Maintenance
Engineering Graduates
Universities and Higher Education Institutions
Grounded Theory

Subjects

Iranian Journal of Engineering Education

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 30 December 2025

  • Receive Date 16 October 2025
  • Revise Date 27 December 2025
  • Accept Date 28 December 2025
  • First Publish Date 30 December 2025
  • Publish Date 30 December 2025

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