Sex: A predictor of hospitality management course selection in the Philippines

Understanding the gender-specific drivers of course selection is vital to ensuring inclusive enrollment strategies in Philippine higher education. This study aimed to determine if sex is a significant predictor in the selection of hospitality management courses in the Philippines. Specifically, it sought to identify the demographic profile of students, assess five key factors (strong interest, family and friend influence, educational institution, job security, and motivation), analyze differences by sex, and identify which factor best predicts course selection. The study utilized a quantitative-descriptive design employing weighted mean, t-test, Pearson’s r, and binary logistic regression. Results revealed that strong interest and motivation significantly influenced female students’ course choices, while job security was more relevant to male students. Although no single factor reached conventional statistical significance in predicting course selection, the strong interest factor had the most practical influence based on effect size. The study concludes that intrinsic and social factors outweigh institutional or pragmatic considerations in course decision-making. It is recommended that educational institutions and industry stakeholders implement gender-responsive strategies such as alumni mentorship, parental engagement, and job-placement programs to increase and retain enrollment in hospitality education.