Philippine E-Journals

The Value of Internationally-Acquired Degrees: Does It Increase a Filipino’s Local Marketability?

Ma. Andrea L. Santiago

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

The fuss over globalization has heightened. Talks of internationalizing the curriculum have pervaded academic institutions as discussions about on developing a global curriculum to educate the global citizen have reached prominent stature. Is this the appropriate response? Do all cultures value an international education similarly? International education is best appreciated in the context of employment. After all, individuals try to get the best education possible to secure for themselves well-paying respectable jobs upon graduation. Consequently, the viewpoint of potential employers becomes relevant as higher education institutions adjust their curriculum to meet the perceived requirements of global industry. This paper explores the marketability of Filipinos with degrees acquired internationally, by determining the compensation premium employers are willing to offer them. Consequently, if businesses in the Philippines are willing to pay a compensation premium for international exposure, then the marketability of an individual naturally increases.