Understanding Gender Differences in Students’ Perceptions of Competency Certification for Enhancing Sustainability in Higher Education

Abstract

This study of 1780 college students in Korea explored gender differences in perceptions of competency certification programs in order to enhance sustainability in higher education. Structural equation modeling explained the optimal validity of the two-factor structure of perceptions between female and male students, and the structural relations between the two factors of competency were invariant across gender groups. A significant difference in latent means was found as well. The findings suggest that, for sustainable development, universities should develop systematic competency certification policies to accommodate students’ needs, as well as those of society, and help bridge the gender gap in the job market.