Career Choice and Professional Preference of Architecture Students in Nigeria

Architectural profession is known to be a career specific major. Studies have linked students’ motivation to study a course and their intention to remain within the profession after graduation. Today, the number of the architecture schools in Nigeria is steadily increasing, as is the number of students enrolling for this course. However, most of these students complete their degrees and then leave the profession. This study examines the psychological factors associated with career decision-making of architecture students. A quantitative approach was employed using a questionnaire survey to investigate students preferred area of specialization and factors influencing students’ choice of studying architecture. A total of 167 students from a public university completed an online survey. Both inferential and descriptive statistics were carried out on the data collected. Findings revealed that interior design, 3D visualizer, architectural consultancy services and project manager were ranked 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th most preferred area of specialization. Personal interest, expected salary, role models, and image of the profession were identified as the top four factors influencing the choice of studying architecture. Analysis of gender differences showed that there was a statistical difference between the male and female respondents with respect to factors influencing career choice and professional preference. In conclusion, the study makes recommendations for a dynamic architectural education with a focus on successful mentoring.