Determinants of University Dropout in the Commercial Engineering Program at UATF – Potosí: A Structural Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35319/perspectivas.202556293Keywords:
University dropout, Business Administration, PLS-SEM, academic factors, student motivationAbstract
University dropout is a complex issue in higher education, with social, economic, and institutional effects. This study analyzed the factors influencing dropout in the Commercial Engineering program at the Universidad Autónoma Tomás Frías (UATF), using a quantitative approach with structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The sample consisted of 108 students who responded to a structured questionnaire based on a Likert scale. The results showed that academic, motivational, economic, and family factors significantly affect the intention to drop out, while social and health factors did not demonstrate a determining influence. The model explained 48.1% of the variance in student dropout, providing moderate predictive capacity. The importance–performance analysis highlighted the need to strengthen academic support programs, student motivation, scholarships, and family accompaniment. It is concluded that dropout is a multifactorial phenomenon, whose reduction requires preventive, inclusive, and sustainable institutional strategies.
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