The Effects of Perceived Overqualification on Job Satisfaction, Organizational Commitment, and Turnover: A Study of AFIT Graduates

The U.S. Air Force provides multiple program to increase the educational skills of its workforce. This study focuses on the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) graduate level, in-residence degree program. The Air Force is making a significant investment in the education of its members. Studies on perceived overqualification, overeducation, and match quality suggest that utilization plays a role in an individual\u27s job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Job satisfaction and organizational commitment levels can be used as predictors of turnover. This research studies the levels of perceived overqualification in AFIT graduates and how it effects their job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover. Data for this research was collected using an on-line survey tool, Facilitate.com. Analysis indicates that US Air Force officers who perceived that they were overqualified for their AFIT follow-on assignment did experience lower levels of job satisfaction and organizational commitment. The hypotheses, results, and analysis of this study are presented along with recommendations and suggestions for future research