The bar chart illustrates the factors that influence people’s choice of major for higher education, while the pie chart shows opinions about who should fund the cost of university education.
Overall, interest in the subject is the most significant factor affecting students’ choice of major, whereas meeting new people plays the least important role. In terms of funding, individuals and employers are considered the main contributors, while taxpayers account for the smallest proportion.
According to the bar chart, 40% of respondents stated that their choice of major was mainly influenced by their interest in the subjects, making it the most important factor. This is followed closely by the desire to gain qualifications at 38%. Several other factors including enjoy learning, career prospects and helpful for current job, each account for around 20% of responses. By contrast, meeting new people is the least influential reason with only 9% of participants selecting this option.
Turning to the pie chart, 40% of people believe that students should pay for their education costs individually. An equal proportion think that employers should contribute to funding higher education. Meanwhile, taxpayers are considered responsible for the smallest share at 25%.