Analysis of the factors affecting student dropout at the University of Miskolc

Abstract

Our research is linked to the strategy for higher education in Hungary, which sets out a clear expectation to reduce the number of university dropouts. The first step towards achieving these goals is to explore and describe the phenomena and the context of university dropouts. According to a number of studies, the first year is crucial for the success of students in obtaining a degree. Significant failure to earn the number of credits set out in the recommended curricula implies a serious risk of dropout. Our research sought to find out how previous studies, in particular secondary school attainment, the student's residence, and its level of infrastructure development as well as the student's sex influence the number of credits earned in the first two semesters. Our analysis was carried out using data from students studying at the Faculty of Economics and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Informatics at the University of Miskolc, broken down by fields of study.