The effects of expectancy and heuristics on the major selection process

Abstract

The current research investigates the applicability of the expectancy theory and heuristics to university business students’ major selection decision. Results from a sample of 180 college of business students confirm a positive relationship between major selection and expectancy. Availability and anchoring heuristics also affected the selection process separated by major. Valuable insights are provided as to what else, other than strictly materialistic factors, affects the major selection decision and determines perceived success in the long run. Although the research findings are based on a college of business context, the findings can be applicable to various academic majors in different settings.