The voice of students with disabilities : reasons for going to university and criteria for choosing the institution

Abstract

[Abstract] This article describes the factors and criteria that affect graduates with disabilities when deciding to pursue higher education and choosing a university. The study involved 95 graduate students from 27 Spanish universities, with whom semi-structured interviews were conducted. The results show intrinsic and extrinsic factors in choosing to study at university, as well as personal and university-related criteria. Personal motivations, impairment as a conditioning factor and previous experiences are part of the intrinsic factors referred to by the students. Extrinsic factors include socially expected trajectories, influences from different agents and improved job and/or career opportunities. In the choice of university, students pointed to personal criteria such as independence or the influence of others. As criteria related to the university, they mentioned the proximity, the academic offer, the structure and services, and the prestige of the institution. The university can and must consider strategies and actions that favour the access and inclusion.