Exploring the Determinant Variables of Entrepreneurial Career Decision among University Students in Depok City

This study aims to identify and analyze the determinants of entrepreneurial career decisions among university students, focusing on the influence of entrepreneurial literacy and family support, with self-efficacy as an intervening variable. Despite increasing interest in entrepreneurship, previous research has primarily emphasized entrepreneurial intention rather than actual career decision-making, particularly in the MSME sector. A quantitative approach was employed, involving 220 university students in Depok City. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that entrepreneurial literacy and family support have a significant and positive effect on students’ entrepreneurial career decisions. Students with higher levels of entrepreneurial knowledge and strong family encouragement are more likely to choose entrepreneurship as a professional path. Furthermore, self-efficacy was found to mediate both relationships significantly, indicating that students’ confidence in their ability to succeed strengthens the impact of knowledge and family support on entrepreneurial career choices. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive and emotional readiness as key components in shaping entrepreneurial decisions. The study suggests that universities should enhance experiential learning and practical exposure to entrepreneurship, while families can serve as a continuous source of motivation. Future research should expand the demographic scope and explore additional psychological or environmental factors that may influence career decision-making.