Influence of the Entry Profile for the Software Engineering Bachelor Degree on a Successful Academic Trajectory: Case Study

Various studies that evaluate and predict dropout in universities have been published. However, few refer to the relationship between the entry profile and a successful academic trajectory. In software engineering (SE), the entry profile constitutes mathematical logical reasoning and thinking as well as problem-solving skills. However, there are other factors such as social and economic, parents' education, number of failed subjects, admission exam results among others that can influence school performance. In this research, we use machine learning algorithms to evaluate the entry profile of students in the software engineering program at the University and relate it to a successful academic trajectory or dropping out of the program. Using a collection of 306 SE students from the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 cohorts, and 33 variables obtained from their electronic records, correlation analysis, stepwise regression, multinomial logistic regression and decision trees were performed. It was found that to have a successful academic trajectory in SE program, the student should be under 19 years old, have no failed subjects in high school, and have an overall score between 81 and 85 points on the admission exam. Those who did not complete their academic trajectory had at least one remedial exam in high school.