The collaboration between universities and the business sector is essential in enhancing graduate employability. In today’s competitive job market, academic qualifications alone are often insufficient; practical experience and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios are equally important. To address this, the Máster en Planificación y Gestión de Procesos Empresariales (MPGPE) at the University of Valencia has implemented the Itinerario Profesional, designed to strengthen relationships between students and companies by providing professional experience during their studies and supporting employability post-graduation.

The Itinerario Profesional combines academic coursework with internships and the Master’s Thesis within a corporate context. It unfolds in three phases: extracurricular internships (400 hours), curricular internships (500 hours), and the Master’s Thesis (500 hours), where students address real business challenges, co-supervised by a faculty member and a company mentor. Across these stages, students accumulate 1,400 hours of professional experience, equipping them with the skills to transition seamlessly into the workforce.

This structured approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, ensuring students graduate with valuable real-world experience. It enhances employability, as students demonstrate their academic achievements and professional capabilities. Furthermore, the program provides networking opportunities that often lead to employment after graduation.

Since its inception, the program has maintained stable participation, with over 12 students per cohort applying and about 5 completing it annually. Around 30% of graduates are hired by the companies where they interned. To date, more than 40 students and 15 companies have participated in the program. Preliminary analysis highlights its effectiveness in supporting students who anticipated difficulties entering the job market, enabling them to secure internships and gain crucial experience. Additionally, students consider completing the Itinerario Profesional an integral part of their professional growth.

Promotion has been a key factor in the program’s success, with brochures and informational materials raising awareness among both students and companies. Although participation has been steady, there is potential for growth, and efforts are being made to further enhance visibility. Future initiatives include the creation of digital content such as videos and podcasts featuring testimonials from alumni and companies, which are expected to communicate the program’s benefits and attract new participants effectively.

The Itinerario Profesional will continue to evolve, focusing on regular meetings with participating companies to ensure the program remains relevant to the changing demands of the job market. Surveys will also be conducted among graduates to gather feedback on their employment experiences and the overall impact of the itinerary. This data will help refine and improve the program, ensuring it meets the expectations of both students and companies.

In conclusion, the Itinerario Profesional within the MPGPE integrates academic and practical experiences, enhancing employability. Over six years, it has proven to be an effective bridge between university education and the professional world. With continuous improvement and new promotional strategies, the program aims to expand its impact, preparing students for careers in a dynamic labor market.

Keywords: Employability, internships, university-industry collaboration, master, thesis, "itinerario profesional".