Same Degree, Same Opportunities? Educational and Social Background Effects on Overeducation in Germany

Overeducation is indicative of a suboptimal education–job match and related to several negative consequences for workers. Despite extensive research explaining the overeducation phenomenon, previous studies have not simultaneously analyzed educational background (i.e., degrees) social effects, or failed consider both vertical horizontal dimension that degrees entail level field). This article seeks overcome these limitations by examining whether varies (1) across (considering field degrees), (2) background, (3) among workers with same degree. Based on German BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey 2018, results suggest highly educated are more likely be overeducated jobs they hold, implying supply this workforce exceeds available adequate labor market. The education determines risk as well, some occupationally specific fields (IT, natural sciences, health) making lower vocational academic education. also indicate directly influences matches (controlling education), i.e., gap in overeducation. evidence suggests an effect job allocation processes, beyond education, so offspring privileged classes high salariat) use market profitably than less classes. Given low attention paid stratification analyses, present makes noteworthy contribution literature inequality. In addition, will serve base future including degrees.