This is a reflection article on the relevance of comprehensive education in university students as a preparation for their working life. It is the result of an investigation into the relationship between emotional intelligence (TMMS questionnaire) and quality of working life (CVP35 questionnaire). Coping strategies for stress (CRIY questionnaire) were applied to 149 undergraduate graduates, among 1254 recent graduates from a university in Manizales (Caldas, Colombia). The study showed that the higher the emotional intelligence, the higher the quality of work life. Likewise, it identified a correlation between emotional intelligence and stress coping strategies: the higher the emotional intelligence, the more appropriate the coping strategiesare. Emotional intelligence is reflected in a higher quality of work life and better coping strategies. The relevance that should be assigned to the development of emotional intelligence in the university context is discussed, in order to contribute to professional success. Currently, professionalizing competencies are focused, without assigning relevance to the student's personal and interactional development.