Social Influence and Occupational Knowledge as Determinants of Career Choice Intentions among Undergraduate Students in Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which occupational knowledge and social influence from significant others predict intentions of undergraduate students to join their careers upon completion of their studies in Tanzania.  Based on its quantitative character, a cross-sectional survey design was opted. A convenient sample of 100 first and finalist undergraduate students (63 males, 37 female; age range 19 to 40 years participated in this study. The structured questionnaire was used to assess the demographic characteristics, level of occupational knowledge, social influence, and career choice intentions. The study found that undergraduate students’ intentions to join their careers were highly determined by their level of occupational knowledge and social influence from significant individuals such as parents, friends, and lecturers. It was further revealed that there was low but positive correlation between occupational knowledge and career choice intentions. Overall, this study found that majority of students intend to join their careers upon their graduation. Both practical and theoretical implications are discussed further in this study.

Key Words: Predictors, career choice intentions, social influence, occupational knowledge, university students, Tanzania.