Influences On Undergraduate College Students’ Choice Of Major

Abstract

This study investigates factors that influence the selection of majors by students at a public university located in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. A total of 453 students studying in the university were surveyed to gather insights on the factors influencing their choice of paths. Participants were asked to provide the top factors influencing their choice of an academic major and minor. The findings revealed that social influences, encouragement from family members, ease of study, and the influence of friends play a significant role in shaping their decision-making process. These results suggest that students heavily rely on their social circles due to personal experience. Other influential factors include aligning with preferences and choosing a college close to home, indicating a strong respect for familial guidance. In contrast, elements like social status and future earnings held less sway over their decisions. The study underscores the importance of increasing awareness among students about the long-term impacts of their chosen majors and stresses the role of institutions in helping students make informed choices that align with both personal aspirations and job market demands. Statistical analyses were conducted to explore variations based on various factors. The results are discussed and recommendations are made based on the data analysis and conclusion.