The Impact of Family Socioeconomic Status and Income on Career Decision-Making among Students: An Examination of Selected Regional Public Universities

Author(s): Mahfuja Akter, Armina Akhter, Zahidul Islam

Publication Date: December 30, 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the dominance of family socio-economic status (SES) and income in terms of the career decision-making processes of students at selected regional public universities in Bangladesh. The research highlights the challenges faced by students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds focuses on the opportunities students get for their family status. A quantitative research design was used, with surveys and questionnaires administered to 400 students from Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU), University of Khulna (KU), and KUET. Binary logistic regression models analyzed the relationships between career choices and factors like SES, family status, and family income.  The results indicate that family socioeconomic status and income significantly influence career decision-making. Students from nuclear families and higher-income families tend to have a broader range of career choices. Parental education, particularly fathers' education, also significantly impacts career decisions. The study is limited to three regional public universities in Bangladesh, which may not represent the entire student population. Insights from this study can help policymakers and educational institutions develop targeted support programs to address disparities in career decision-making. Enhancing resources and guidance for students from lower SES backgrounds can promote equity. This research contributes to the literature by focusing on regional public universities in Bangladesh, providing empirical evidence on how family SES and income shape career decisions. It offers a foundation for informed policy-making and educational reforms aimed at promoting equity and social mobility.