Factors associated with the delay in obtaining the academic degree in Postgraduate graduates; Factores asociados con el retraso en la obtención del grado académico en graduados de posgrado

Abstract

The aim was to identify factors associated with delays in obtaining postgraduate degrees at a private university in Peru. Addressing the gap between the high percentage of graduates and the low percentage of degree completions, a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional and causal level design was adopted. The population consisted of 1,183 master’s program graduates, with a sample of 363 selected through stratified probabilistic sampling. A 114-item instrument adapted from a validated model for Latin America was used. Delay in obtaining the academic degree is attributed to obstacles in academic progress, deficits in research knowledge, personal issues, and a lack of support services. In contrast to previous studies emphasizing the importance of mentorship, it is noted that, in this specific context, elements facilitating academic progress and mentor guidance do not have a significant impact (sig>0.05) on academic delays. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.