Journal of Information Systems Education (JISE)

Volume 30

Volume 30 Issue 2, Pages 111-126

Spring 2019


Why do Students not Major in MIS? An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior


Wallace Chipidza
Claremont Graduate University
Claremont, CA 91711, USA

Gina Green
Cindy Riemenschneider
Baylor University
Waco, TX 76798, USA

Abstract: A McKinsey & Company report states that a gap in information technology skills remains in the U.S. and globally. Combined with continued projections for high growth in MIS positions such as Systems Analysts and Software Applications Developers, increasing student enrollment in MIS continues to be a focus for MIS academicians and professionals. Although studies addressing MIS enrollment issues abound, the manner in which relevant factors are collected is often not systematized. The current study uses established theory and instruments to examine student perceptions of majoring in MIS. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), we employ an elicitation-based study uncovering beliefs about majoring in MIS. We subsequently use Partial Least Squares to analyze the importance of these beliefs in influencing intentions to major in MIS. The results lead to specific recommendations for improving MIS enrollments in the U.S. and international settings.

Keywords: Theory of planned behavior, Enrollment, IS major, Student perceptions

Download this article: JISE - Volume 30 Issue 2, Page 111.pdf


Recommended Citation: Chipidza, W., Green, G., & Riemenschneider, C. (2019). Why do Students not Major in MIS? An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior. Journal of Information Systems Education, 30(2), 111-126.