Entrepreneurial Intention of Future Business Administration Students: A Theory of Planned Behavior Approach

Abstract

This study explored the entrepreneurial intention of future business administrators through Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Specifically, it examined the influence of attitude toward entrepreneurship, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on the entrepreneurial intention of 178 fourth-year BSBA–Financial Management students at Davao Oriental State University–Cateel Campus, selected through convenience sampling. Using a descriptive-correlational design and a structured questionnaire, results revealed moderate to high levels of entrepreneurial intention, with attitude toward entrepreneurship emerging as the strongest predictor. Correlation analysis confirmed significant positive relationships among all three TPB constructs and entrepreneurial intention, while regression analysis showed that their combined effect explained 60.2% of the variance. A key limitation lies in the reliance on a single-campus sample and self-report measures, which may affect generalizability. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening experiential learning, mentorship, and resource accessibility to cultivate entrepreneurial readiness among business students. The study contributes to curriculum development, policymaking, and community engagement by providing evidence-based insights into fostering entrepreneurial mindsets that support inclusive economic growth.