Who influenced me more? A comparative study of the factors that affect career decision of undergraduate students in Bangladesh

Abstract

This study examined the extent to which Teachers among other significant factors contribute in undergraduate student’s career decisions upon completion of their studies in Bangladesh. A quantitative methodology was applied and 200 Undergraduate Students (120 males, 80 females; age range 18 to 30 years) participated in the survey. The survey questionnaire was structured and derived from the theoretical framework and hypothesis to assess the demographic characteristics, role of teachers and other career decision factors. Data are analyzed using Minitab version 16 to find out the relationship between students career decision (dependent variable) and other factors that influence student’s career decisions (independent variables). The study found that undergraduate students career choice were highly determined by their teachers who guided them to make a right career plan  through career conversations, counseling and helping students to gain comprehensive understanding of curriculum to achieve career specific requirements. Other significant influencers such as parents, friends and students themselves were also taken into account however low positive correlation was found. Overall the study found that majority of the undergraduate students are highly career conscious and they generally seek employment upon their graduation.