A r,s,t-spherical fuzzy decision-making model of university happiness: case study of University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City

A seven-domain university well-being model was evaluated using r,s,t-Spherical Fuzzy DEMATEL to identify the most influential domains perceived as exerting upstream influence at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH). Judgments were obtained from a 20-member expert panel comprising academic staff, administrators, and senior lecturers, allowing domain interactions to be assessed under linguistic uncertainty. The analysis showed that physical health, mental–emotional balance, and especially financial security act as core drivers, while social relationships, environmental quality, career conditions, and self-fulfilment operate primarily as receivers. The most influential sub-criteria were income sufficiency, future financial security, growth mindset, balanced nutrition, and clear development pathways. These results suggest that financial support mechanisms, mindset-development initiatives, and foundational health programs may yield the broadest well-being gains. The study demonstrates the applicability of r,s,t-spherical fuzzy causal modelling within a Vietnamese higher-education context and highlights the need for longitudinal and multi-campus studies to confirm the causal hierarchy observed.