Differences in Satisfaction with Undergraduate Education between African Americans and Caucasians and how it Relates to Retention of African American Students at East Carolina University

Abstract

This study was designed to assess if there are differences in overall college satisfaction between Black and White graduating seniors using data from a survey of graduating seniors. Sex differences were also investigated. Data collected from the Graduating Senior Survey for the 2009-2010 academic school year yielded responses from 2195 students. Of these, 312 were Black, 1702 were White, 1438 women, and 757 men. The analysis found a significant difference in satisfaction between male and female students among the White students, but not for Black students. White men expressed the most dissatisfaction. In addition, there were significant sex differences observed for White students, but not for Black students on Locus of Control items. Indicators of academic self-esteem measures were analyzed by both race and sex. Students with lower satisfaction with their college experience were more likely to indicate lower levels of internal locus of control and self-esteem. How this information relates to retention is discussed.