Entrepreneurial Intentions in Higher Education
Summary
Entrepreneurial intentions refer to the conscious state of mind that precedes the decision to start a new venture. In higher education, these intentions are shaped by a confluence of personal attitudes, perceived social pressures and institutional supports. Students develop entrepreneurial intentions through exposure to tailored curricula, experiential learning opportunities and role models that enhance their confidence and skills. Globally, universities have incorporated entrepreneurship modules into diverse disciplines, reflecting the recognition of start-ups as drivers of innovation, employment and economic resilience. Research consistently highlights the importance of self-efficacy, creativity and the perception of institutional backing in fostering students’ readiness to pursue entrepreneurial careers. The resulting insights inform the design of educational strategies that bridge theory and practice, equipping graduates to translate intention into action in varied cultural and economic contexts.
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Entrepreneurial Intentions in Higher Education publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in entrepreneurial intentions in higher education across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Entrepreneurial intention: A deliberate mental state directing an individual’s attention and action towards the creation of a new venture.
Theory of planned behavior: A model positing that intentions arise from attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control.
Perceived behavioural control: The degree to which an individual feels capable of executing the behaviours required to start a business.
Subjective norms: The perceived social pressures to perform or not perform entrepreneurial behaviours.
Self-efficacy: An individual’s belief in their capacity to organise and execute the actions necessary to achieve entrepreneurial goals.
References
- Análisis de la Intención Emprendedora de Estudiantes en Institutos Técnicos Superiores de la Ciudad de Potosí, Bolivia: Un Enfoque Basado en Ecuaciones Estructurales. Revista Veritas de Difusão Científica (2024).
- Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Intention of University Students in China: Integrating the Perceived University Support and Theory of Planned Behavior. Sustainability (2021).
- Entrepreneurship Education through Successful Entrepreneurial Models in Higher Education Institutions. Sustainability (2020).
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