Factors Affecting Students' Career Choice in New Zealand

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the factors influencing career decisions of tertiary students in New Zealand. The relationship between the factors and cultural values held by students was also ascertained. In addition, the career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) was used to assess if perceived significant others’ influence increased their degree of belief as to whether they are able to successfully complete tasks necessary to make career decisions. Finally, the relatedness between students’ career choice and fields of study were examined. Participants of this study were full-time students, who were in the final academic year of their qualification. They were recruited, via e-mail invitations, to complete an online questionnaire, measuring four constructs – factors affecting career decision, cultural/personal values, perceived significant others’ influence, and CDSE. The final sample consisted of 151 respondents. Results showed that collectivistic values correlated significantly with extrinsic and altruistic factors while individualistic values correlated significantly with intrinsic values. Cultural values had no significant impact on perceived significant others’ influence. There were no gender differences in relation to perceiving the influence of significant others and both genders preferred seeking career advice from their mothers/stepmothers compared to their fathers/stepfathers. Only supportive relationships (a form of perceived significant others’ influence) correlated significantly with CDSE. Finally, relatedness between career decision and field of study increased with age and was higher in students enrolled in a field of study developing specific skills and in students pursuing post-graduate qualifications. Although no causal inferences may be drawn from the results of this study, this research has further contributed to the limited number of studies focusing on career decision making among students in New Zealand. It is hoped that the findings are able to provide some critical information to tertiary institutions, organisations, and career counsellors.