Factors Influencing College Course Choices on SHS Graduates

Abstract

This study explores the factors influencing college course selection among Grade 12 students at Mindanao Mission Academy, aiming to fill the gap in research regarding the impact of personal interests, peer influence, institutional considerations, and practical factors on course choices in the Philippines. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and Holland’s Theory of Career Choice, the study surveys 359 students using a structured questionnaire adapted from Ouano et. al. (2019). Statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics, ANOVA, post-hoc Tukey comparisons, and Kruskal-Wallis tests, reveals that practical considerations, such as job opportunities and financial stability (M = 3.97), are the most significant factors in decision-making, followed by personal interests (M = 3.76), while peer influence (M = 3.16) and institutional considerations (M = 3.57) play a lesser role. No significant differences were found in the importance of these factors based on gender or age, indicating that both male and female students, and those aged 15-17 and 18-20, prioritize similar factors. The results suggest that students focus on career outcomes and personal interests when choosing their courses, with external influences like peer and institutional factors being less important. This highlights the need for career guidance programs that align students' aspirations with practical career opportunities, addressing their immediate concerns for financial security and future employment. It is recommended that career counseling be more tailored to practical career paths and personal interests, with less emphasis on societal pressures, helping students make informed decisions that reflect both their goals and the realities of the job market.