Title: Intrinsic motivations and choice of program of study among students joining Higher Education
Authors: James Tayebwa Bamwenda, Barbara Lynn Amanya, Doreen Akunda
Volume: 9
Issue: 1
Pages: 48-55
Publication Date: 2025/01/28
Abstract:
Choice of program of study for higher education has been key in student's current-day education careers. In Uganda, students select programs of study where they lack background knowledge of career opportunities. Most students enroll in university programs but later regret or drop out due to a lack of interest. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 201 randomly selected students, 10 focus group discussions were conducted, and five key informant interviews included 3 Makerere University admissions and career guidance officials and 2 head teachers at secondary schools. The study discovered that the choice of programs of study for higher education was centered around perceptions and attitudes towards professional, traditional, and newer programs such as Medicine, law, and engineering. The program's capacity to help one get a job or get a promotion was a key factor influencing choice. Results further showed that 58.5% are driven by projections of advancing career-wise and getting career-associated jobs after completing the University.