Students’ Perception of the Development of Transversal Competencies in Higher Education

In the context of a globalized and technology-driven labor market, transversal competencies have become increasingly vital for employability and long-term career success. Unlike technical (hard) skills, which are specific to particular jobs or professions, transversal competencies—such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and critical thinking—are transferable across various domains and industries. This study explores university students’ perceptions regarding the development of transversal (soft) skills throughout their academic journey. Employing a quantitative research design, data were collected via an online questionnaire completed by 52 students enrolled in diverse academic programs and faculties at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA of Bucharest. The findings reveal that most students perceive a moderate to high level of transversal skill development, primarily facilitated through instructional activities (lectures, seminars, laboratories) and group projects. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at enhancing the role of universities in fostering transversal competencies, including curriculum redesign, increased emphasis on experiential learning, and the integration of transversal skill training across all levels of higher education.