“Filling Up All the Options”: Chinese Students’ Choice of Transnational Higher Education

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 11:25 am
  In Roundtable Session: International Student Experiences (Table 9)

Abstract

Drawing on Rational Choice Theory, this study explores how students decided on Transnational Higher Education (TNHE) programs during their college choice process and illustrate how different factors interact in the process. Learning from students’ discussions in focus group interviews, we found that students selecting TNHE programs at regional colleges and universities treat TNHE as a pathway to enter specific institutions or majors, instead of being attracted by the characteristics of TNHE. Few students are aware of the potential benefits of learning in TNHE programs, and even hold concerns about employment after graduation. We discussed the impacts of social contexts and factors on students’ rational processes. Recommendations and suggestions are provided at the end.

Authors

• Ren Liu, Shandong University of Finance and Economics

• Fanya Wu, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Xiaohui Ren

• Jiliang Li