Students' Knowledge and Perceptions of Career Prospects in Jewellery and Metalsmithing

Students’ Perceptions of Jewellery and Metalsmithing Careers

Abstract

This study investigated the knowledge and perceptions of career prospects among jewellery and metalsmithing students at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 87 undergraduate students via online questionnaires. Findings indicate that while a majority (62%) rated their knowledge of career opportunities as good or excellent, a significant portion (37.9%) felt less informed, with awareness varying across different career paths like Jewellery designer, entrepreneur, and gemmologist. Lecturers and coursework were primary information sources (69%), followed by online research (60.9%). Despite the general optimism about job prospects among students, (59.7% viewing them as promising or very promising), major concerns included high startup costs for entrepreneurship (62.1%), lack of industry recognition in Ghana (55.2%), and limited job opportunities (46%). Financial benefits (69%) and passion for the field (54%) were key factors influencing career decisions. While most students (82.8%) felt their education positively influenced their perceptions, a strong demand for more industry exposure (83.9%), business training (59.8%), and career guidance (55.2%) emerged. Notably, 63.2% would consider careers outside jewellery and metalsmithing, citing financial constraints, skill/support deficits, and job security. This study highlights the need for strengthened industry engagement and clearer career pathway communication within jewellery and metalsmithing programmes to address gaps in students’ perceptions of professional opportunities in the field.