Al Ishlah Jurnal Pendidikan
Vol 17, No 4 (2025): DECEMBER 2025

Exploring Career Selection Determinants Among Accounting Students in Indonesia: An Empirical Study Using the Theory of Planned Behavior

Dhany Efita Sari (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Nadia Fauzi Asila (Universitas Sebelas Maret)
Suranto Suranto (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Surya Jatmika (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Rochman Hadi Mustofa (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Siti Aisyah (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)
Rini Agustin Eka Yanti (Universitas Galuh)
Erni Harlina Isdiati (Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Surani Dwi Astuti (Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
16 Dec 2025

Abstract

Occupational choice in accounting is influenced by psychological and social factors, which can be effectively analyzed using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Understanding these determinants is essential for developing strategies to attract and retain future professionals in the field. This study employed a quantitative approach to examine how TPB constructs—Attitude Toward Behavior, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behavioral Control—influence students' intentions to pursue a career in accounting. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 134 Indonesian accounting education students. Hypotheses were tested using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS 2.3.9, chosen for its suitability in handling moderate sample sizes and complex models involving latent variables. The analysis revealed that all three TPB constructs significantly predicted students’ career choices in accounting. Attitude Toward Behavior emerged as the strongest predictor, indicating that students' positive perceptions of accounting as a rewarding and fulfilling profession strongly influence their decisions. Subjective Norms also had a significant effect, highlighting the role of social influences from family, peers, and educators. Additionally, Perceived Behavioral Control was positively associated with career intention, suggesting that confidence in personal ability and access to necessary resources supports students' career decisions. These findings suggest that accounting programs should integrate digital skills and career readiness training to align with student motivations and labor market expectations. Future research should explore additional factors to develop a more comprehensive understanding of career choice in accounting.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

alishlah

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Other

Description

This journal focuses on advancing scholarly research and critical discourse in the field of education. It publishes original research articles that address contemporary issues and emerging trends in curriculum development, instructional practices, learning processes, educational policy, and teacher ...