An Analysis of the Theory of Planned Behaviour in Shaping Students' Entrepreneurial Intentions

Abstract

Entrepreneurial intention is an important precursor to entrepreneurial behaviour and has received increasing attention in higher education research. This study examines the influence of Attitude toward Entrepreneurship, Subjective Norms, and Perceived Behavioural Control on students’ Entrepreneurial Intention using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as the underlying theoretical framework. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data were collected from approximately 250 undergraduate students in Malaysian higher education institutions using a structured questionnaire. The measurement items were assessed using a seven-point Likert scale and analysed using SPSS Version 29. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and multiple linear regression were employed to analyse the data and test the proposed hypotheses. The reliability results demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency across all constructs, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.908 to 0.953. The regression findings revealed that Attitude toward Entrepreneurship had a positive and significant effect on Entrepreneurial Intention (β = 0.123, p = 0.004). Perceived Behavioural Control also demonstrated a positive and significant effect and emerged as the strongest predictor of Entrepreneurial Intention (β = 0.710, p < 0.001). In contrast, Subjective Norms had a positive but insignificant effect on Entrepreneurial Intention (β = 0.105, p = 0.149). Overall, the findings support the applicability of TPB in explaining students’ entrepreneurial intentions, particularly through the roles of attitude and perceived behavioural control. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening students’ entrepreneurial capabilities, confidence, and positive perceptions through effective entrepreneurship education and institutional support.