Reviewing cutting-edge developments in the field, this Handbook presents a comprehensive overview of the education-work nexus. It employs a diverse range of labour market theories to examine the many ways in which education is a crucial determinant of people’s life chances and experiences of employment.

Chapters cover key topics including labour market outcomes, working while studying and lifelong learning. Expert authors highlight theoretical and methodological developments in the field, and identify important perspectives, questions, and tools for researchers. They advocate for a pragmatic approach that recognises the various complex mechanisms involved in employee selection, and illustrate the vital importance of evidence-based policymaking. The Handbook also explores future directions for the field, focusing on how to generate dynamic, longitudinal perspectives on the relationship between education and work grounded in real life experiences.

The Handbook of Education and Work is an essential resource for students and scholars across sociology, economics and education science. It is also an invaluable guide for policymakers seeking to shape effective educational, training, and labour market policies.