A Review of Factors Influencing Students’ Choice in Tertiary Technical Education

Malaysian Education’s Science/Technical: Arts Policy demands a 60:40 ratio of enrollment in science and arts. However, the current enrollment of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in higher education programs is still greatly below the targeted percentage. STEM education is important for the country’s development and provides the needed workforce and experts. Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) is one of the options for STEM in tertiary education. This research aims to discuss the significant factors that affect students’ decision to choose B.Tech in their tertiary education. There are several components that influence students’ selection of higher education programs such as the students’ individual perspective, external influences, and institutional qualities. A survey investigating ten factors from these components is designed to assess their influence towards students’ decisions. The survey involved 93 respondents who are currently pursuing pre university or diploma in STEM related streams. Based on the finding, tuition fees (18%), campus facilities (13%) and career interest (12%) are the top three factors that influence the students’ decision.