Factors Affecting the Choice of Academic Studies in Relation to the Respondents' Profile – Case of Tourism & Environmental Protection in Sarajevo
Numerous and varied factors influence the selection of academic studies; however, these factors often correlate with the structure of young people seeking to enroll in a specific program. This paper aims to identify and assess the determinants affecting study choices based on the demographic profile of the respondents, which includes parameters such as gender, type of high school education completed, and arrivals/nationality. The survey and interview was conducted among first-cycle students in tourism and environmental protection studies during the winter semester of the 2023/2024 academic year. The findings revealed that the key factors affecting the choice of academic program include its dual conception (tourism & environmental protection), popularity, and the perceived value-prosperity of the diploma. Notably, the popularity of the program is deemed more significant by male students and those with vocational backgrounds compared to female students and gymnasium graduates, for whom the value of the diploma holds greater importance. Additionally, for international students, the conceptual framework of the academic program remains the most critical factor.