A Study on the Mediating Effect of Career Barriers in the Relationship Between University Students' Major Satisfaction, Major Commitment, and Career Preparation Behavior

Objectives The puppose of this study is to analyze the impact of major satisfaction and major involvement on career preparation behavior among university students, with a particular focus on the mediating role of career barriers. Methods A survey method was conducted with 251 students enrolled in four-year universities located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, from December 10 to December 31, 2023. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships among the variables. Results The results of this study are as follows. Both major satisfaction and major flow positively influence career preparation behavior. Notably, major flow also indirectly impacts career preparation behavior by reducing career barriers. However, major satisfaction does not significantly affect career barriers. Conclusions These results suggest that enhancing major satisfaction and flow, as well as providing strategic support to overcome career barriers, are crucial for effectively supporting students in their career preparation. This study offers valuable insights for universities and policymakers in developing educational and policy interventions aimed at fostering successful career development among university students.