Students' perceptions of discrimination in the job market.

Abstract In this research we present a short review of literature explaining how historical factors and perceptions of discrimination may lead members of ethnic minority groups to target a restricted range of employment opportunities, thereby leading to disadvantage in job markets. The review shows that much of the research has been conducted in the US, and identifies a need for UK specific research. The problem Despite equal opportunities legislation, disadvantage is still experienced by minority ethnic groups in the labour market, with respect to level of unemployment, salary, and positions occupied within the workplace hierarchy. For example, around 11% of ethnic minority graduates are still seeking work six months after graduation compared with around 7% of White graduates (HESA, 2002). Literature Review To determine whether there may be reasons for the ethnic minority disadvantage other than direct and indirect discrimination among employers, literature from a range of disciplines was examined, using the PsycINFO, BIDS IBSS and Ingenta databases, and the Internet.