Date of Award
5-1-2024
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Education
First Advisor
Hunter-Johnson, Yvonne
Abstract
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree graduates often enter the workforce immediately upon graduation. This study examined the vertical transfer decision-making processes of these students as they considered whether to enter the workforce upon graduation or transfer to a four-year university in search of an applied engineering degree. The researcher gathered data from eight community college students in the second half of their two-year industrial trades degree program to understand how their perceptions of academic and social influences affected their post-graduation plans. Results indicated that academic influences, social influences, graduate choices and student self-efficacy had the greatest impact on transfer decisions. The findings suggested that community colleges should improve student knowledge of AAS degree transfer options, with particular focus on faculty advisement. Universities and other stakeholders also have responsibility to ensure AAS graduates perceive four-year program options as advantageous in meeting their career goals.
Access
This dissertation is only available for download to the SIUC community. Current SIUC affiliates may also access this paper off campus by searching Dissertations & Theses @ Southern Illinois University Carbondale from ProQuest. Others should contact the interlibrary loan department of your local library or contact ProQuest's Dissertation Express service.