The Selection of a Major Field of Study in the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University.

Abstract

Abstract The major objective of this study was to identify and quantify the determinants of the selection of a major field of study in the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University in 2004. Data on factors associated with the selection of a major field of study were collected with an internet survey administered to enrolled undergraduate students, and a paper survey administered to incoming freshmen. Logit regression models were estimated to identify the statistical determinants for twelve majors. Results indicated that the desire to work with or without plants or animals was the most influential factor in the decision to enroll in a specific major. Also, gender, high school agriculture courses, agricultural related clubs/activities, high school science teachers, high school agriculture education teachers, the friendly atmosphere in the College of Agriculture, and friendliness of each of the individual departments were also significant determinants in the selection of a major. The specific regression results provide a wealth of information to faculty and administrators interested in enhancing recruitment efforts and matching individual students with major fields of study that are beneficial and meaningful.