DIE 02-26 El abandono universitario en FCEA (UdelaR): Un estudio comparativo entre la Licenciatura en Economía y Contador Público

In a context where access to higher education is becoming increasingly important, it is essential to understand university dropout as a complex phenomenon. This article analyses dropout patterns based on a comparative study of two degree programmes at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (FCEA, UdelaR): the Bachelor's degree in Economics (2012 cohort) and the Bachelor's degree in Accountancy (2019 cohort). Using administrative data and surveys conducted as part of the Comprehensive Training Programme (EFI) 'Determinants of University Student Dropout', indicators were developed to reflect the heterogeneity of the phenomenon between degree programmes and over time. The results suggest that Economics students have less vocational clarity than those studying Public Accountancy. They have higher dropout rates from their degree programme, but not necessarily from higher education. In contrast, higher levels of permanent dropout from higher education are observed in Public Accountancy. Furthermore, common determinants emerge in both cohorts, such as difficulties with social integration, poor academic performance, and overcrowded classes. Overall, the evidence shows that dropout patterns differ according to degree programme and cohort, reinforcing the need for more complex, comprehensive approaches to address this issue.

Keywords: University dropout, UdelaR