Factors that influence choice of course of study by undergraduate students at Makerere University: a case study of School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University

Abstract

The study explores the factors that influence the choice of course of study by undergraduate students at School of statistics and planning at Makerere University, Uganda's leading public university. The cross-sectional survey was employed where by primary data was collected from a sample of 274 students at Makerere University using a structured questionnaire. The study focused on performance at senior six, parental influence, and family financial ability as predictors of course choice. The analysis was carried out using Pearson’s chi square method at 5% level of significance and multinomial logistic regression method where the analysis of the data revealed that most of the respondents from the study were females (51.82%) compared to males, those privately sponsored (62.41%), and those enrolled in BSTAT (56.20%). While performance at senior six significantly predicted course choice (62.04%), with higher performers selecting competitive programs, parental influence also played a role (41.97%). Family financial ability, correlated with performance and sponsorship, had a moderate impact. Therefore, the government of Uganda and universities have been recommended to come up with targeted academic support programs for struggling students and open communication between parents and students. Researchers should make further research with a larger sample which is needed to explore additional factors influencing course preferences.