Vocational determinants and equity: support and inclusion among Dominican university students

This article analyzes the socioeconomic and vocational factors that affect the choice of university major among Dominican students, in a context of high youth unemployment and state-driven educational reforms. It is based on vocational theories such as Trait and Factor Theory and Super's Theory, along with sociological and economic approaches. A quantitative methodology with a descriptive design was used, applying the CDEGU questionnaire adapted to the Dominican context. The sample included 175 students from O&M and UFHEC universities, mostly majoring in Education (64%). The findings revealed that 70.3% of parents have a high school education at their highest level, 33.1% come from families earning minimum wage, and 63.4% receive financial support from family, although only 8% have scholarships. 93.1% received family support in their major choice, while 67% were influenced by their friends. Students with more information and who chose their major as their first option showed greater satisfaction. Improvements to vocational guidance policies are suggested to encourage more informed decisions.