Abstract:
This study explained the reasons why Albanian students decide to pursue graduate studies,
especially a master degree. In this paper, the factors that motivate the students to pursue
a master degree in education in different universities in Albania are investigated to create
a broader understanding of their purpose in enhancing their academic career. The data
are obtained from a close-ended survey in a Likert type scale with adequate validity and
reliability. The sample consists of 82 students (female = 70 (85.4%) and male = 12 (14.6%))
who were master degree students studying in the field of education at state and private
universities in Albania.
The results revealed that there are no differences in motivation factors for master degrees
between male and female students. However, the findings show that there is a significant
difference in expecting to earn higher compensation, in finding opportunity for more
challenging work, obtaining credentials as regulated by the law and remaining competitive
in the field of education between female and male students. At the end conclusions and
implications are provided for the higher education institutions and other related instances.
