Motivos de elección de carreras universitarias por parte de estudiantes de bachillerato en México. un estudio comparativo desde una perspectiva de género

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyse if male and female high school students present different motives for choosing academic careers. The study comprises a sample of 3,152 students, from Altos Sur Region of Jalisco, in Mexico, belonging to eight different schools. 58% of the sample were women and 42% men. The survey included questions concerning the interest in pursuing an academic career, and the reasons for that. University degree and the reasons that drive their choice were identified. The results indicate there are significant differences between man and women as regards the reasons for choosing a university degree. While women say that vocation was the most important motive leading them to higher education, men presented economic reasons and social recognition as the main justifications for that. It is concluded that gender stereotypes still influence the choice for a university career among high school students. Therefore, it is recommended to promote counseling and vocational guidance activities that integrate a gender perspective for overcoming the cultural beliefs that prevent women from having an academic career.