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Academic Journal of Engineering and Technology Science, 2026, 9(3); doi: 10.25236/AJETS.2026.090315.

Career Planning Challenges and Strategies for Quantum Science Students Based on a Clustering Analysis

Author(s)

Zhougeng Lin

Corresponding Author:
Zhougeng Lin
Affiliation(s)

School of Management, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, China

Abstract

This study presents a contemporary analysis of career planning among quantum-related disciplines graduates in China. It aims to investigate their self-awareness, career orientation, and post-graduation plans, thereby identifying key challenges and informing targeted support strategies. An empirical study was conducted through a questionnaire survey administered to students enrolled in quantum-related programs in China. An empirical study was conducted through a questionnaire survey, which was designed with a logical structure focusing on personal, environmental, and solution factors. Data were analyzed using a K-means clustering analysis in Python to identify distinct graduate profiles. The results reveal a critical paradox: while an overwhelming majority acknowledge the importance of career planning, more than half exhibit insufficient self-recognition and unclear career direction. Post-graduation plans are evenly split between further studies and employment. A clustering analysis segmented respondents into three groups: proactive planners, uncertain explorers," and pragmatic undecided, validating the prevalence of vague self-positioning and unclear development trajectories. Students expressed a strong desire for more robust institutional support, including better access to corporate information and career guidance.

Keywords

Graduates of quantum-related programs in China; career planning; employment

Cite This Paper

Zhougeng Lin. Career Planning Challenges and Strategies for Quantum Science Students Based on a Clustering Analysis. Academic Journal of Engineering and Technology Science (2026), Vol. 9, Issue 3: 109-117. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJETS.2026.090315.

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