Study Preferences in Higher Education

Abstract

It is a well-known fact that in modern societies educational systems are inseparably tied to the labour market. Individuals invest in their own economic potential through education and training; therefore, they increase their labour market value and their future earnings, according to human capital theory. The primary objective of this paper was to examine the decisions made by young people studying in Hungary on continuing their education and selecting the appropriate institution and degree programme, as well as their expectations for their degree. The examination was conducted by means of a questionnaire in seven Hungarian higher education institutions. The findings revealed that students' decisions on going on to higher education are largely influenced by the prospect of a better job in the future, as well as the likelihood of career and financial success.