The pie chart provides the reasons for students to study at a UK university in the years 1987 and 2007.
Overall, while maintaining its dominance in both years, the most significant reason was the availability of suitable degree courses, while other factors were influencing people’s choices in smaller percentages in 1987 and 2007.
In 1987, the most noticeable reason for studying at a UK university was suitable degree courses, highlighting at 35%. Quality of resources, having less impact on choices, marked at 21%, which was 2% higher than good sports and social activities. The quality of teaching was a minimal factor, standing at 15%, with proximity to parental home at 10%.
In 2007, suitable degree courses increased by 2%, remaining the main driver in both years. Despite experiencing more than a twofold increase, the impact of choosing proximity to parental home in the decision-making process was less important than that of suitable degree courses. Quality of resources increased by 4% compared to 1987, while quality teaching experienced an almost opposite trend, increasing by 3%. Good sports and social activities experienced more than a threefold decline.