Factors Influencing the Choice of STEM Careers in Higher Education in El Salvador

Abstract

According to experts in the field of education, the choice of a university career significantly shapes an individual’s future; however, this decision is strongly rooted in the student’s early academic development. Contrary to common belief, choosing a degree program is not a spontaneous decision made solely at the time of enrollment.

Therefore, in order to identify and comprehensively understand the main reasons why students choose—or do not choose—careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), this study was conducted with 540 active students from six Higher Education Institutions in El Salvador. Data collection included students enrolled in STEM programs as well as those pursuing non-STEM degrees. Participants completed an individually administered mixed-format questionnaire.

The analysis of the results revealed that, although not exclusively, two of the factors with the greatest influence on the selection of STEM careers are socioeconomic and family-related factors. Contrary to findings reported by some other authors, gender does not appear to play a determining role in the choice of careers in these fields; however, educational background does.