Core Viewpoint - The phenomenon of "upgrading from undergraduate to vocational school" reflects a growing trend where individuals with bachelor's degrees are returning to vocational education for better job prospects, indicating a disconnect between higher education and employment opportunities [4][10][15]. Group 1: Background and Context - The recent surge in interest around "upgrading from undergraduate to vocational school" is exemplified by Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College, which is now admitting undergraduate students into its technical programs [3][4]. - This trend is characterized as a form of "educational inversion," where individuals who have completed a four-year degree are opting to pursue vocational training instead [4][6]. Group 2: Employment Opportunities - The primary motivation for this trend is the perceived ease of finding employment through vocational education, particularly in industries that are experiencing labor shortages, such as manufacturing [10][12]. - Data from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security indicates that 38.7% of job demand in 2021 was concentrated in the manufacturing sector, highlighting a significant gap between job availability and the qualifications of job seekers [12]. Group 3: Educational Institutions' Response - Vocational schools are adapting to the market by focusing on employability, often directly linking their programs to specific job opportunities, which contrasts with traditional universities that may not prioritize job placement [16][18]. - The survival of vocational institutions hinges on their ability to deliver tangible employment outcomes for students, thereby challenging the traditional prestige associated with higher education [17][18].

最近，"本升专"相关话题再次登上社媒平台热搜。 此次受到广泛关注的，是郑州铁路职业技术学院。据媒体报道，2025年，该校的动车组检修技术、高速 铁路综合维修技术等多个专业备注招生对象为本科生。该校的工作人员在接受采访时称，学校的本科毕 业生报名情况不错，2024年就完成了招生计划。 这个消息引人关注，因为这是一种"学历倒挂"——先上了本科，再回头去读大专。 | 序号 | 专业名称 | 考生类别 | 组别 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 1 | 动车组检修技术 | 本科毕业生 | 第一组 | | 2 | 动车组检修技术 | | 第二组 | | 3 | 高速铁路综合维修技术 | 本科毕业生 | 第三组 | | 4 | 高速铁路综合维修技术 | | 第四组 | | 5 | 铁道交通运营管理 | | 第五组 | | 6 | 铁道交通运营管理 | 本科毕业生 | 第六组 | | 7 | 铁道交通运营管理 | | 第七组 | | 8 | 铁道机车运用与维护 高速铁路施工与维护 | 退役士兵 | 第八组 | | | 铁道供电技术 | | | | 9 | 铁道交通运营管理 | | 第九组 | | ...

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend among young people in China to pursue vocational education (specifically, transitioning from a bachelor's degree to a specialized diploma) as a practical solution to employment challenges, highlighting a shift in perception regarding the value of different educational paths [4][6][21]. Summary by Sections Educational Trends - Many young graduates are considering enrolling in vocational colleges after obtaining their bachelor's degrees, a phenomenon referred to as "reverse升学" (reverse education) [4][6]. - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College has gained attention for accepting undergraduate students, with 135 students already enrolled in its specialized programs [6]. Employment Perspectives - There is a growing belief that practical skills can outweigh academic qualifications in the job market, with reports suggesting that some vocational graduates earn more than their undergraduate counterparts [8][9]. - Various vocational colleges across China are beginning to offer programs specifically designed for undergraduate students, indicating a broader acceptance of this educational shift [8][9]. Job Market Realities - The job market increasingly demands both academic credentials and practical experience, leading many graduates to consider vocational training as a viable alternative [12][26]. - Students express that vocational education can provide direct pathways to employment, especially in fields with high demand for skilled labor [18][24]. Changing Attitudes - The stigma associated with vocational education is diminishing, as more young people recognize the value of acquiring practical skills over merely holding a degree [21][32]. - The article notes that some students view vocational training as a strategic move to enhance their employability, rather than a fallback option [19][32].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend among young people in China to pursue vocational education (specifically, returning to specialized colleges) after obtaining a bachelor's degree, highlighting a shift in attitudes towards education and employment opportunities [1][11][31]. Group 1: Educational Trends - Many young graduates are considering "reverse enrollment," where they opt to pursue vocational diplomas after completing their bachelor's degrees, indicating a change in the perceived value of different educational paths [2][11][31]. - Institutions like Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College have started enrolling bachelor's degree holders, reflecting a growing acceptance of this trend [4][6][31]. - Other vocational colleges, such as Guangdong Lingnan Vocational Technical College and Qingdao Technician College, are also offering programs specifically for bachelor's degree holders, further supporting this educational shift [6][7][31]. Group 2: Employment Opportunities - The article notes that many vocational graduates are finding lucrative job opportunities, sometimes earning more than their bachelor's degree counterparts, which challenges the traditional view of educational hierarchy [6][18][22]. - Young people are increasingly recognizing that practical skills can be more valuable than academic credentials in the job market, leading to a reevaluation of the importance of degrees [18][32]. - The trend of "reverse enrollment" is seen as a way to enhance employability, with many graduates believing that acquiring technical skills can provide a competitive edge in the job market [8][26][30]. Group 3: Changing Perceptions - There is a growing sentiment among young people that having a technical skill set is more beneficial than merely holding a degree, as they seek practical solutions to employment challenges [18][32]. - The article highlights a shift in mindset where young graduates are less concerned about the stigma of attending vocational schools, viewing it as a viable path to career success [20][31]. - The narrative around education is evolving, with many young individuals now seeing vocational training as a legitimate and effective route to achieving their career goals [32].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of "本科生回炉" (undergraduate students returning to vocational schools) in China, highlighting the phenomenon of "本升专" (undergraduate to vocational) as a response to the challenging job market and the mismatch between academic qualifications and job requirements [3][4]. Group 1: Enrollment Trends - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College has started enrolling undergraduate students for vocational programs, with plans to increase the number of undergraduate admissions from 30 in 2022 to 135 in 2023 [4]. - Other vocational schools, such as Guangdong Lingnan Vocational Technical College and Shandong Qingdao Technician College, have also introduced programs specifically for undergraduates seeking practical skills [4]. Group 2: Employment Challenges - A report by Zhilian Recruitment indicates that undergraduates face difficulties in the job market, often finding themselves competing with master's and doctoral graduates for high-level positions, while lacking the practical skills required for technical jobs [4]. - The increasing pressure to secure stable employment has led many undergraduates to consider vocational training as a viable alternative to enhance their employability [4]. Group 3: Case Studies - The article features interviews with three undergraduates who returned to vocational schools, each motivated by different factors such as job security, interest in practical skills, and the desire to combat employment anxiety associated with age [4][17]. - One case study highlights a student named Liu Ming, who transitioned from a white-collar job to a blue-collar position in an automotive factory after enrolling in a vocational program that promised job placement [7][8]. Group 4: Educational Structure and Outcomes - The concept of "订单班" (order classes) is introduced, where vocational schools collaborate with companies to tailor training programs that meet specific industry needs, ensuring students have job placements upon graduation [13][14]. - However, some students express dissatisfaction with the quality of education and the actual job placements, revealing a gap between the promised outcomes and the reality of their experiences [15][16]. Group 5: Alternative Paths - The article also discusses individuals like "婉辞," who chose to study a niche skill (woodwind instrument repair) abroad, emphasizing the importance of pursuing interests that align with market demands and personal fulfillment [30][31]. - This highlights a broader trend where individuals seek specialized skills that are less likely to be outsourced or automated, thus providing a sense of job security in the long term [34].

Core Viewpoint - The trend of undergraduate students returning to vocational schools for specialized training is gaining traction in China, driven by employment pressures and the desire for stable job opportunities [3][4][8]. Group 1: Educational Trends - The phenomenon of "本科生回炉" (undergraduates returning to vocational education) is highlighted by institutions like Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College, which has begun enrolling undergraduate students into specialized programs [4][5]. - The increasing number of vocational programs tailored for undergraduates reflects a shift in educational focus, with institutions like Guangdong Lingnan Vocational Technical College and Shandong Qingdao Technician College offering courses specifically for this demographic [5][7]. - A report from Zhilian Recruitment indicates that undergraduates face challenges in the job market, where higher educational qualifications do not guarantee better job prospects compared to vocational training [7][8]. Group 2: Employment Opportunities - The concept of "订单班" (order classes) is emerging, where vocational schools collaborate with companies to tailor training programs that ensure job placements for graduates [16][19]. - Graduates from these programs often find themselves in positions that do not align with their expectations, as seen in the experiences of students like Liu Ming and Changhe, who faced challenges in securing stable employment despite the promises of their programs [19][29]. - The average monthly salary for blue-collar workers is on the rise, with projections indicating a significant increase from 2,684 yuan in 2012 to 6,150 yuan in 2024, narrowing the income gap with white-collar workers [29]. Group 3: Personal Experiences - Students like Liu Ming and Changhe transitioned from white-collar jobs to blue-collar positions, prioritizing job stability over previous career aspirations, reflecting a broader trend among graduates [20][30]. - The experiences of students in vocational programs reveal a disconnect between the advertised benefits of these programs and the actual outcomes, leading to disillusionment among graduates [19][28]. - The pursuit of specialized skills in fields like instrument repair, as illustrated by the case of a student named Wan Ci, highlights the importance of aligning personal interests with market demands for stable employment [36][42].

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of "本科生回炉" (undergraduate students returning to vocational schools) is gaining attention, particularly with Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College's 2025 enrollment plan that specifies certain programs will only accept undergraduate graduates, leading to a phenomenon referred to as "本升专" (undergraduate to vocational) [1][3]. Group 1: Enrollment Trends - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College has increased its enrollment of undergraduate students from 30 in 2022 to a planned 135 in 2023, highlighting a growing trend of undergraduates seeking vocational education [2]. - Other vocational institutions, such as Guangdong Lingnan Vocational Technical College and Shandong Qingdao Technician College, have also started offering programs specifically for undergraduates looking to retrain [3]. Group 2: Employment Challenges - A report by Zhilian Recruitment indicates that undergraduates face difficulties in the job market, where positions requiring higher education often favor master's and doctoral candidates, while practical skill-based roles are better suited for vocational graduates [4]. - The increasing pressure of employment has led many undergraduates to consider vocational training as a viable path to transition into more stable job opportunities [5]. Group 3: Student Experiences - Interviews with students who returned to vocational training reveal motivations such as job security and the desire to acquire practical skills that are in demand [6]. - Students enrolled in "订单班" (order classes) report mixed experiences, with some finding the promised job placements to be less reliable than advertised, often resulting in labor contracts rather than direct employment [19][23]. Group 4: Industry Insights - The trend of undergraduates pursuing vocational education reflects a broader shift in the labor market, where blue-collar jobs are becoming increasingly attractive due to competitive salaries and job stability [41]. - The average monthly salary for blue-collar workers has risen significantly, indicating a narrowing wage gap between blue-collar and white-collar jobs, which may further encourage undergraduates to seek vocational training [41].

Core Points - The phenomenon of "reverse升专" (本科生回炉专科) is emerging as a new trend, where undergraduate students are choosing to enroll in vocational colleges to enhance their skills and employability [1][5][8] - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College has increased its enrollment of undergraduate students from 30 in 2022 to 135 by 2025, indicating a significant shift in market demand for skilled professionals [1][6] - The trend reflects a redefinition of vocational education, where it is no longer seen as the end of the educational chain but as a viable option for skill enhancement [5][9] Enrollment Trends - Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College is specifically targeting undergraduate students for three programs: Train Assembly Repair Technology, High-Speed Railway Comprehensive Maintenance Technology, and Railway Transportation Operation Management, all of which only accept undergraduates [2][3] - The college's enrollment numbers for undergraduates in these programs are set to increase significantly, showcasing the growing interest in vocational training among those with higher education backgrounds [1][6] Social Perception - The "reverse升专" trend has sparked discussions on social media, with comments reflecting concerns about the devaluation of undergraduate degrees and the changing perceptions of vocational education [4][11] - There is a growing recognition that practical skills and vocational training are becoming increasingly valuable in the job market, challenging the traditional view that white-collar jobs are superior to blue-collar roles [14][15] Employment Market Dynamics - The demand for skilled professionals is outpacing the supply, with a noted shortage of individuals who possess both practical skills and innovative capabilities [15][16] - The disconnect between university education and job market needs has led to structural employment issues, emphasizing the necessity for educational institutions to focus on problem-solving skills rather than merely producing graduates [17] Value of Education - The value of a degree is increasingly linked to its scarcity and relevance in the job market rather than the degree itself, indicating a shift towards a more skills-based evaluation of talent [19] - The trend of undergraduates opting for vocational training highlights a broader societal change towards valuing practical skills and adaptability in the workforce [21]

Group 1 - The phenomenon of undergraduate students enrolling in vocational colleges, such as Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College, indicates a shift in the perception of vocational education, which is now seen as a viable option for some undergraduates and even graduates [1] - The demand for high-skilled talent in the railway industry has surpassed the traditional boundaries of vocational training, leading to a significant increase in enrollment numbers, from 30 students in 2022 to 135 in 2025, reflecting market needs [1] - The trend of "undergraduates choosing vocational education" signifies a broader societal change where the value of skills is increasingly recognized over traditional academic credentials, as evidenced by higher employment rates in vocational education compared to regular universities [2] Group 2 - The shift from a degree-centric view to a value-centric perspective among students highlights a growing recognition that skills and practical experience are crucial for career success [2] - The emergence of diverse educational ecosystems, such as the "University Student Technician Class" in Qingdao and the influx of undergraduates into vocational training programs, illustrates the evolving landscape of education where vocational and academic paths intersect [2] - Despite the positive trends, challenges such as insufficient investment in teaching resources and homogenized program offerings remain barriers to the development of vocational education [3]