Investigating and evaluating factors influencing undergraduate engineering students' choice of university

Abstract

There is a need to have a better understanding of the quality of education at higher learning institutions (HEI). Good quality education strives to help students obtain the knowledge and skills so that they can be responsible and productive citizens. Quality is the most competitive weapon for HEI to attract and gain loyalty from students. Student enrolment is the most imperative outset for the success of any HEI. Thus, it is crucial to investigate the factors influencing students' choice of university to allow effective planning for student recruitment strategies. This study sought to critically analyse the success factors that influenced students' choice of university. The study adapted a descriptive survey design which employed a structured questionnaire to collect data. The targeted population of this study was the undergraduate students in the department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Technology (MIET) from various levels of study. A sample of 135 was selected through a convenience sampling from a population of 625. Data was analysed using a statistical software named Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) with the assistance of a statistician from Statistical Consultation Services (STATKON). Findings of the study revealed that university reputation, variety of courses to choose from as well as safety and security were the top factors influencing students' choice of university. Factors such as the cost of the course and location and logistics did not have a high influence on students' choice of university.