Costa, Sandra PereiraGabel, Tanja2017-11-062017-11-062017-09-12http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/19179This study used quantitative methods to examine influences on selection and implementation of professional education choices. The underlying sample consisted of 183 German pupils and school graduates who participated in a standardized online survey examining (a) factors that had affected their choice of professional education and (b) reasons for their preferences for university studies or apprenticeships. Perceived theoretical and practical skills, leadership qualities and decision behavior were identified as main influencing factors of their choice. Parents´ educational background and friends´ selection of professional education were additional environmental factors. While practical orientation and immediate financial independence were motives for selecting apprenticeships, good advancement opportunities and the objective of obtaining a leading position were among the most important reasons to select university studies. Implications of these findings for theory, research, and practice are considered.engProfessional education choicesUniversity Studies in Germanymaster thesis201751097