Student decision processes: Rational investment in human capital?

A study of university and polytechnic students' decision making processes is reported, testing the strength of human capital theory and screening theory, together with support for notions of skills transferability and the need for upskilling. The decision to undertake tertiary education is perceived as a serious 'human capital' investment. Screening theory is shown to be a contributing factor in employment decisions in tandem with human capital theory. The research data suggest that the theories underpinning the reform policies do not provide a complete model of tertiary education decision processes.