How academic, professional, social, and psychological identities intersect and differ between working and non-working postgraduate students in South African universities

The primary aim of the datasets is to explore students’ intersecting identities (academic, professional, social, and psychological) and to document their experiences, challenges, and support needs throughout their academic journey.

Data collection involved in-depth interviews guided by an interview protocol designed to elicit rich, narrative responses about students’ perceptions, roles, and interactions within university settings and beyond. The interviews captured nuanced insights into how students navigate their multiple identities, manage work-study demands, and access institutional support. These datasets are suitable for researchers interested in higher education studies, identity theory, work-study balance, or support mechanisms in academic contexts.