Student Satisfaction in Multi-Habited Dwellings: The Case of University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA) Hostels

Purpose: This study measured and compared the satisfaction level of students in multi-habited dwellings at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Variables used to assess the satisfaction level of students in the hostel included accommodation fees, quality of the environment, need for privacy, ventilation, room sizes, and security. These variables were further grouped into housing characteristics of the dwelling and neighbourhood characteristics. Methods: Using a quantitative survey research design, the study utilized a structured questionnaire to obtain the views of residents from the UPSA hostel. Convenience sampling was employed and a total sample of 283 students were obtained out of the population of 1,200 residents. Data were analyzed using Relative Satisfaction Index (RSI). Findings: The research found that, students ranked location to road access, proximity to campus, and security as the first, second, and third factors they were most satisfied with. On the other hand, students ranked water supply as the factor they were most dissatisfied with. Research Limitation/Implications: This research focused on the hostel of only one public university in Ghana. Practical implication: The results of the study will better inform the management of the hostel facilities as well as subsequent redevelopment/upgrade efforts. Social Implication: The study will assist decision makers in what to consider in the provision of adequate accommodation for its students so as to improve on the quality of their well-being. Originality/Value: This paper provides information about residential satisfaction of university students in a public university.