A Model of Full-Time Professional Graduate Student Satisfaction:   Program Design, Delivery, and Outcomes

John J Sailors; Teresa J Rothausen; Michael L DeVaughn; Christopher P Puto

John J Sailors, PhD University of Scranton
Teresa J Rothausen, PhD University of St. Thomas
Michael L DeVaughn, PhD University of St. Thomas
Christopher P Puto, PhD Spring Hill College

Abstract

A model of full-time professional graduate student satisfaction is developed and tested using data from in-depth focus groups of full-time MBA students that identified facets of program satisfaction. These fell into six categories—three categories involving program design and delivery and three categories of program outcomes. The model was validated by an independent group of full-time MBA students and a measurement instrument was developed. This instrument was administered to other full-time MBA students and their data analyzed via structural equations modeling. This analysis further refined the model and estimated the path coefficients among the items and linked them to overall satisfaction, perceived value of the program, and commitment to it. We propose that this model can be adapted and generalized to other professional graduate programs.

Author Biographies

John J Sailors, PhD, University of Scranton

Associate Professor of Marketing

Teresa J Rothausen, PhD, University of St. Thomas

Susan E. Heckler Endowed Chair in Principled Leadership and St. Thomas John Ireland Scholar

Professor of Management

Opus College of Business

University of St. Thomas

Michael L DeVaughn, PhD, University of St. Thomas

Associate Professor of Management

Opus College of Business

University of St. Thomas

Christopher P Puto, PhD, Spring Hill College

President Emeritus

Director of the John J. Burke Center for the Study and Advancement of Free Enterprise

Professor of Marketing