ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING THE CAREER CHOICES OF UNDERGRADUATES IN OPTING FOR BUSINESS EDUCATION IN MP
Abstract
Career choice is a critical decision in a student’s academic journey, shaping both professional trajectories and long-term socio-economic outcomes. Among undergraduate students, the decision to pursue business education is increasingly influenced by a multitude of personal, social, economic, and institutional factors. Understanding these determinants is essential, particularly in regions like Madhya Pradesh (MP), where higher education is expanding rapidly and students encounter diverse academic and career pathways. Research across disciplines consistently highlights that career decisions are shaped by intrinsic motivations, perceived competence, social expectations, and the broader learning environment. For instance, Tannous et al. (2024) found that students’ professional identity, study experiences, and perceived career prospects significantly guide their career preferences in health sciences. Similarly, Zhou and Shirazi (2025), in a systematic review, emphasized that career aspirations among youth—especially in STEM fields—are shaped by personal interest, self-efficacy, and external support systems.
In the context of higher education choices, several studies offer important insights into how students select academic programs and disciplines. Chhor et al. (2024) identified institutional reputation, academic environment, and career opportunities as major reasons behind students’ enrollment decisions in Cambodian universities. Within the Indian setting, Thomas, John, and Thomas (2024) demonstrated that socio-economic background, parental influence, and perceived job security play a substantial role in shaping both undergraduate and postgraduate career decisions. Focusing specifically on commerce and management, Panakaje et al. (2024) highlighted that students’ choices are significantly driven by employability prospects, personal interest in business domains, and evolving industry demands. Similarly, studies on teaching career motivations (Rana et al., 2024), design careers (Swargiary & Padun, 2024), and medical specializations (Godbole et al., 2025) all reinforce the idea that career choices are multidimensional and shaped by field-specific aspirations and contextual determinants.
A considerable body of literature also points to the role of family, peer networks, and socio-economic constraints in shaping career decisions. Research from India and neighbouring countries shows that these socio-cultural influences remain dominant. For instance, Islam et al. (2021) found that Bangladeshi students’ career choices are driven by financial expectations, societal norms, and parental guidance. In the Indian context, Srivastava and Dhamija (2022) revealed that institutional image, social prestige, and peer groups strongly influence students’ choices in higher education. Ray et al. (2020) further emphasized that Indian students consider job prospects, family expectations, and self-interest as core determinants of career decision-making. Among business students specifically, Lamichhane et al. (2022) identified personal motivation, perceived career growth, and entrepreneurial aspirations as major influencing factors.
