Exploring the determinants of student satisfaction in off-campus university housing: evidence from Ghana

Purpose The quest for academic excellence among university students is inextricably linked to their living situations, especially the housing challenges they encounter. The purpose of this study is to identify and understand the various factors that contribute to students’ overall satisfaction with their living conditions outside of the campus premises. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a mixed-methods research technique that blends qualitative and quantitative research methods. The study’s sample population included off-campus public university students who were questioned and their responses were used to make inferences. The sample methods used in the data collection were purposive and convenience sampling. The data analysis techniques used in analysing the data were descriptive and inferential statistics as well as content analysis. Findings Based on the descriptive analysis, the most significant determinants of student satisfaction in off-campus university housing were electricity, access to transport and access to water. Subsequently, the Mann–Whitney U -test was performed to establish whether there is no significant difference between participants’ gender and the determinants of students’ satisfaction with off-campus university accommodation. The test analysis revealed that only the TV room showed significant differences between male and female students, while no significant differences were found in the other determinants. Research limitations/implications This study has uncovered valuable insights that can inform housing policies, improve the quality of off-campus accommodations and enhance the overall student experience. Originality/value The research aims to contribute novel insights and tailored recommendations that address the needs and concerns of students residing in off-campus accommodations.