Career Perceptions of Undergraduate Gaming Management Students

Abstract

This research examines the attitudes and perceptions of undergraduate gaming management students in Macao toward the city's gaming industry and its career prospects. This research is particularly crucial to Macao because of a serious shortage of human resources and difficulty in attracting and retaining employees since the liberalization of Macao casino licensing in 2002. Students who have positive attitudes and perceptions toward the industry are more likely to enter and remain in the industry after graduation. We surveyed 81 gaming management students who are currently studying at the University of Macau. The results reveal that students in general have a neutral attitude toward the industry and its career prospects, although the majority reports the intention to enter the industry on graduation. Faculty members and teachers and gaming-related work experience are found to have the greatest positive influences on students' career decisions. Moreover, 3rd-year students have more negative dispositions toward the industry than students in other years. The implications for gaming management educators, the industry, and the public sector are discussed.