Higher education as a pathway for female immigrants' establishment and well-being in Sweden

• Purpose: This study focuses on higher education as a pathway to establishment in a new society for female immigrants and its role in well-being. Building on previous research that highlights social capital and empowerment as significant factors for successful establishment in a new society, and experiencing well-being, this study aims to explore if higher education can promote female immigrants’ establishment in Swedish society. Methods: Interviews were used to explore female immigrants’ experiences of higher education and establishment in Swedish society. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the empirical material, generating a nuanced understanding of the studied topic. Results: Higher education was found to promote establishment in Swedish society, ultimately leading to an experience of well-being. Pursuing higher education was perceived as a means of achieving personal fulfilment and success while fostering new social connections. Important factors in pursuing higher education included favourable living conditions, personal motivation, and a positive educational attitude. Conclusion: The study provides insights into female immigrants’ higher education experiences in a context that promotes establishment in Swedish society and well-being. However, more research is needed to fully investigate the driving factors for female immigrants pursuing higher education, considering their migrant background and living conditions. © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Annan samhällsvetenskap -- Internationell migration och etniska relationer (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Other Social Sciences -- International Migration and Ethnic Relations (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

female immigrants

health

Higher education

integration

well-being

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)