Labour Market Returns of the Investment in Non-Academic Tertiary Education: the Role of Course Quality = Le ricadute sul mercato del lavoro dell'investimento nell'istruzione terziaria non accademica: il ruolo della qualità dei corsi

This paper investigates the labor market returns of non-academic tertiary education in Italy, focusing on the role of course quality within the ITS system. Using administrative data from 2013 to 2023, the study finds a strong positive correlation between course quality and employment outcomes, even when controlling for structural factors. Key quality components — such as course attractiveness, practical training, and interregional networks — emerge as significant drivers of employment rates, particularly in southern regions where labor market conditions are weaker. The findings support merit-based funding policies and suggest that investing in course quality can enhance education-to-work transitions, especially in disadvantaged areas.