Comparative analysis of career aspirations among STEM college students: social-cognitive model across college years

This study delved into the determinants of career aspirations among STEM college students and examined their variations across different college stages. Conducted at a four-year research university in Taiwan, the study targeted sophomore to senior students from four STEM-related departments to control for institutional influences. Employing a survey method and multi-group path analysis, the study found consistent pathways that influenced career aspirations across all stages of college learning, with interest and outcome expectations emerging as the primary determinants. The results highlight that the junior year is pivotal for bolstering career aspirations, particularly through the acquisition of specialized knowledge. High academic self-efficacy fostered junior students’ sustained interest, which correlated with heightened career aspirations in their senior year. This study underscores the critical role of junior-year subject mastery in shaping students’ career decisions and aspirations. Emphasizing academic counselling for juniors and facilitating career transitions for seniors can significantly enhance outcomes.